BC Has Specific Lone Worker Laws — Here's Exactly What You Need
WorkSafeBC requires written check-in procedures, documented training, and annual reviews for anyone working alone or in isolation. CheckMate handles all of it.
If you manage workers who can't be seen or heard by coworkers, this page is for you.
What BC Law Actually Requires
WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 4 spells out exactly what employers must do
Working Alone Definition
A worker is "working alone or in isolation" when working in circumstances where assistance would not be readily available. WorkSafeBC guidelines clarify: if a worker can't be seen or heard by someone capable of providing timely help, these rules apply.
Section 4.20.1 →
Hazard Identification
Before assigning anyone to work alone, employers must identify hazards specific to that worker and minimize risk using engineering or administrative controls.
Section 4.20.2 →
Written Check-in Procedures
Employers must develop and implement a written procedure for checking worker well-being, including time intervals between checks and what to do if contact fails.
Section 4.21 →
Mandatory Training
Both the lone worker AND the person assigned to check on them must be trained in the written check-in procedures. Training must be documented.
Section 4.22 →
Annual Review Required
Check-in procedures must be reviewed at least annually, or sooner if work conditions change or the procedures aren't working effectively.
Section 4.23 →
Risk-Based Intervals
Check-in frequency must match the hazard level. High-risk work requires more frequent checks. Intervals are decided between supervisor and worker with the safety committee.
WorkSafeBC Guidance →The Bottom Line
WorkSafeBC doesn't just suggest check-ins—they mandate written procedures, training documentation, and annual reviews. CheckMate provides all three, automatically.
See How CheckMate Handles This →Common Mistakes vs. Full Compliance
Many BC employers think they're compliant when they're actually exposed
What Gets Employers Cited
- Verbal check-in agreements with no written procedure
- No documentation that training actually happened
- Check-in intervals not matched to hazard level
- No procedure for what happens when contact fails
- Procedures haven't been reviewed in years
What We Provide
- Written procedures customized to your operation
- Automated training records and acknowledgments
- Configurable check-in intervals by role/hazard
- 24/7 human escalation when workers don't respond
- Built-in annual review reminders and audit trails
Built for BC Workplaces
From forestry to healthcare, we understand BC's unique working conditions
Forestry & Logging
Fallers, cruisers, and forestry workers operate in remote areas with limited cell coverage and high hazards. CheckMate provides satellite-enabled check-ins and emergency response for BC's most isolated workers.
Mining & Extraction
Underground and surface mining operations in BC's interior and north require robust lone worker solutions. CheckMate handles confined space protocols and remote site monitoring.
Utilities & Infrastructure
BC Hydro contractors, telecom technicians, and utility workers across the province work alone at substations, towers, and remote facilities. CheckMate provides the monitoring they need.
Healthcare & Home Care
Home support workers, community nurses, and mental health workers face violence risks and work in unpredictable environments across BC communities.
Municipal Services
From Vancouver to Prince George, bylaw officers, parks staff, and public works crews work alone across BC municipalities. CheckMate keeps them connected.
Construction & Trades
Site supervisors, surveyors, and tradespeople often work alone on BC job sites. CheckMate provides the documentation WorkSafeBC inspectors look for.
How CheckMate Works
WorkSafeBC compliance in four simple steps
Worker Checks In
Via app, phone call, or satellite device at your configured intervals
System Documents
Every check-in is logged with timestamp and location for your records
Missed Check? We Act
24/7 operators follow your escalation procedure immediately
Emergency Response
If unreachable, we coordinate with supervisors and emergency services
Common Questions
All-Inclusive Protection
Everything your lone workers need—one price
No Hidden Fees. No Surprises. No Monitoring Surcharges.
With CheckMate, human-powered protection is built in from day one. No surprise fees when you actually need someone watching.
Beware the Hidden Cost of "Cheap" Apps
Many app-only solutions advertise low per-user rates, then charge extra for actual human monitoring. When you add it up, they often cost more—and you still don't get 24/7 professional response.
Every Plan Includes:
WorkSafeBC Compliance Made Simple
Stop worrying about whether your lone worker program would pass inspection. CheckMate gives you the written procedures, training documentation, and audit trails that WorkSafeBC requires.
Book a Free Compliance Review →No obligation. We'll walk through your current setup and show you exactly what you need.
Trusted by 900+ organizations across Canada