What Height is Considered “Working at Height”?

What Height is Considered “Working at Height”? A Guide to Staying Safe

In the construction, maintenance, and various industrial sectors, the term “working at height” is frequently used, but what does it actually mean? Many assume that working at height only applies to jobs on skyscrapers or scaffolding, but in reality, it encompasses a much broader range of activities. Understanding what constitutes working at height is crucial for ensuring safety, compliance with regulations, and effective risk management.

Defining “Working at Height”

In simple terms, working at height means working in any place where a person could fall and potentially injure themselves. According to the UK’s Work at Height Regulations 2005, working at height is defined as:

  • Any place where a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury if no precautions are in place.
  • Work that involves access to or egress from a height where the risk of a fall exists.

This could range from working on ladders, scaffolds, or rooftops to operating on platforms, mezzanines, or near openings in the ground. Even work at ground level near a hazard (such as an open excavation or pit) may be considered working at height if there’s a risk of falling into the space.

What Height is Considered “Working at Height”?

Contrary to what some might think, there is no set minimum height that defines “working at height.” Whether you’reworking just a few feet off the ground or dozens of metres in the air, what matters is the risk of falling and potential injury. To clarify:

  • Low heights can still be dangerous: Working even a couple of metres off the ground can lead to serious injuries if precautions are not taken.
  • No maximum height: There is no upper limit. Whether you’re working on a roof, a platform, or a scaffold several stories up, or working on a wind turbine, the same safety principles apply.

For instance, a task that involves working on a ladder at a height of just 1.5 metres could still be considered working at height if there’s a significant fall risk, such as working over a hard surface like concrete or near dangerous machinery.

Common Examples of Working at Height

  1. Ladders and Step Ladders: Even short ladders can present risks if used improperly.
  2. Scaffolding: Any task done from a scaffold, regardless of height, qualifies as working at height.
  3. Rooftops: Whether it’s roof repairs or installation work, this is one of the most obvious examples.
  4. Platforms and Aerial Lifts: Work on elevated platforms like scissor lifts or cherry pickers also falls under this category.
  5. Maintenance on Bridges or Tall Structures: This includes cleaning, painting, or other maintenance tasks.
  6. Working near excavations: As mentioned earlier, work done near open pits, manholes, or trenches can be classified as working at height if there’s a fall risk.

Why It Matters: Safety and Regulations

Working at height is one of the leading causes of workplace accidents and injuries. In the UK, the Work at Height Regulations 2005 are designed to prevent death and injury from falls. According to these regulations, employers and those in control of work at height must ensure the following:

  1. Planning and Supervision: All work at height should be planned, organised, and supervised appropriately.
  2. Risk Assessment: A thorough risk assessment must be conducted, identifying fall hazards and how to mitigate them.
  3. Proper Equipment: The correct equipment (like guardrails, harnesses, and fall arrest systems) must be used, and it should be regularly inspected.
  4. Training: Workers must receive adequate training on how to work safely at height, use equipment, and respond in an emergency.
  5. Rescue: A rescue plan must be in place for any working at height activities

Reducing Risks: Best Practices for Working at Height

To minimise the risks associated with working at height, consider the following best practices:

 

  • Use the Right Equipment: Always select the right equipment for the job, such as mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), scaffolds, or safety harnesses.
  • Secure Tools and Equipment: Loose objects falling from height can be as dangerous as the fall itself. Ensure tools and materials are properly secured.
  • Monitor Weather Conditions: Wind, rain, and ice can make working at height significantly more dangerous. Always monitor weather forecasts and halt work if conditions are unsafe.

Conclusion

Working at height is more than just skyscraper or scaffold jobs—it encompasses any situation where a fall could result in injury, whether that’s a few feet or many metres above the ground. Recognising what qualifies as working at height and following safety regulations can significantly reduce risks and prevent accidents. Whether you’re a worker, employer, or safety manager, understanding the guidelines and ensuring proper safety measures are in place is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment.

Stay safe, stay informed, and always treat any work at height with the seriousness it deserves!

We offer Working at Height training, which includes practical training, not just theoretical, plus rescue training, which will enable those working at height to create a rescue plan, which is a mandatory requirement