Falls from Height: Health & Safety Guidance

Falls from height are one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in the workplace. This guidance provides practical advice for employers and workers to understand the risks, implement safety measures, and comply with UK health and safety legislation.

What Are Falls from Height?

Working at height refers to any work where a person could fall and injure themselves, even at relatively low levels. Common examples include:

  • Ladders and scaffolds
  • Roofs and elevated platforms
  • Construction or maintenance work above ground level
  • Open edges and fragile surfaces

Main Hazards of Working at Height

  • Falls from ladders, scaffolds, or platforms
  • Falling objects striking workers below
  • Fragile roofs and surfaces giving way
  • Inadequate edge protection or guardrails
  • Poorly maintained access equipment

Legal Duties and Regulations

Employers must comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Key duties include:

  • Planning and organising work at height to minimise risks
  • Using suitable work equipment and protective systems
  • Ensuring equipment is inspected and maintained by competent persons
  • Providing training and supervision for all employees working at height

Safe Working Practices

  • Carry out a risk assessment before any work at height
  • Use fall prevention measures such as guardrails, scaffolds, or work platforms
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety harnesses and helmets
  • Ensure ladders and access equipment are correctly positioned and secured
  • Never work at height in adverse weather conditions
  • Provide supervision and ensure workers are trained in safe practices

Emergency Planning and Rescue

All workplaces where work at height is carried out should have an emergency plan. Key elements include:

  • Rescue procedures for workers who fall or are suspended in safety harnesses
  • First aid provision and trained personnel
  • Rapid communication to summon emergency services if needed
  • Regular drills to ensure all workers understand procedures

Frequently Asked Questions About Falls from Height

What counts as working at height?

Any work where a person could fall and injure themselves, including ladders, scaffolds, roofs, elevated platforms, or open edges.

Who is responsible for safety at height?

Employers are responsible for ensuring all work at height is planned, supervised, and carried out safely, in compliance with UK law.

What equipment is needed for working at height?

Appropriate ladders, scaffolds, guardrails, platforms, personal protective equipment such as safety harnesses, helmets, and fall arrest systems.

How can falls from height be prevented?

Through risk assessment, proper planning, use of safe equipment, fall prevention measures, PPE, training, and emergency rescue planning.

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