Remote or isolated work

Remedies for working alone or remotely depend on the conditions and context of the work, but may include:

• relocate the work
• provide vehicles, equipment, tools and communication equipment suitable for use in the terrain
• have at least two workers in remote locations
• ensure workers are physically and mentally fit to perform the work
• provide appropriate training about working in remote or isolated environments
• avoid riskier times of the day, such as excessive heat, cold, storms and when the circadian rhythm wants the body to sleep
• ensure adequate facilities for workers including toilets, drinking water, eating facilities and personal storage
• provide accommodation
• have a check-in process where workers must contact ‘home base’ at a nominated time
• have an emergency response plan if workers fail to report in at allotted times.

For more information on the risks and remedies, see:

• Safe Work Australia's Remote or isolated work

Overseas work

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act), the duties of a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) and an officer’s obligations in respect to managing workers overseas are identical to workers onshore.

Each overseas project has its own psychosocial and physical hazards and risks. The PCBU needs to consider, take reasonably practicable steps, and document the steps to address the health and safety risks of managing the overseas project and travel.

For more information, see:

• Overseas Workers - How Should I Identify and Manage the Risks factsheet (PDF, 74.9 KB)
• Travel Risk Assessment checklist (PDF, 223.9 KB).

Training on psychological health and safety