South Carolina Lone Worker

Our Guide To Lone Worker Safety Policy And Legislation In South Carolina

Because South Carolina maintains a state plan approved by federal OSHA, the state enforces its own safety and health regulations, which must be at least as effective as federal OSHA standards. While SC OSHA does not have a regulation specifically titled for “lone workers,” many general standards apply to employees working in isolation.

The General Duty Clause—both federally and at the state level—requires employers to provide a workplace free of recognized hazards. This includes evaluating lone working conditions and implementing protections tailored to those environments.

SC OSHA offers consultation services and safety training through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. Employers can use these services to evaluate workplace hazards, improve compliance, and strengthen lone worker protections.

How South Carolina Defines A Lone Worker

South Carolina’s safety regulations do not include a specific definition of “lone worker.” However, in practice, a lone worker is typically understood to be someone who performs job duties in isolation, without the immediate presence of a coworker or supervisor who could assist in case of emergency.

Examples of lone workers in South Carolina include:

• In-home caregivers and visiting nurses
• Agricultural workers on remote farms
• Overnight janitorial or maintenance personnel
• Security guards at large or vacant properties
• Truck drivers and delivery personnel
• Utility and telecommunications field workers

Identifying which roles involve working alone helps employers assess risk and apply the correct safety measures.

Employing A Lone Worker In South Carolina

Employers in South Carolina are responsible for recognizing lone worker scenarios and ensuring appropriate safety systems are in place. While there is no specific law for lone workers, failing to protect these employees can still lead to violations under SC OSHA regulations and the General Duty Clause.

Best practices for managing lone worker safety include:

• Risk Assessments: Evaluate each lone working situation to determine unique hazards.
• Communication Plans: Use mobile devices, check-in systems, or GPS-enabled safety apps to stay connected with remote workers.
• Emergency Response: Establish procedures for responding to medical issues, accidents, or violence involving lone employees.
• Training: Equip workers with the knowledge and tools needed to handle emergencies and report safety concerns.
• Documentation: Keep detailed safety records to demonstrate compliance and continuous improvement.

Taking these actions not only helps protect employees but also reduces liability and improves safety culture.

Learn How You Can Protect Your Employees With Loneworker.com

With Loneworker.com you can be equipped with the knowledge and the means to protect your employees and protect your business. Contact us today to learn more about how Loneworker.com can protect you and your employees.

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How The Safe Lone Worker App Can Protect South Carolina Lone Workers And Employers

The Safe Lone Worker app is a practical solution for South Carolina employers who want to protect remote or isolated workers. The app includes features such as scheduled check-ins, emergency alerts, GPS location tracking, and fall detection, allowing real-time communication and rapid response in emergencies.

Whether your workforce is spread across rural farms, city streets, or industrial facilities, the app helps ensure worker safety while supporting SC OSHA compliance efforts.

South Carolina Lone Worker Policies

South Carolina operates its own OSHA-approved occupational safety and health program under the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). SC OSHA covers most private and public sector employers in the state, enforcing standards that meet or exceed federal OSHA requirements.

This article is intended for general informational purposes and should not replace official regulatory advice or legal consultation. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit llr.sc.gov/osha or OSHA.gov.