Falls from height are one of the most common causes of serious injuries and fatalities in UK workplaces. To mitigate risks and protect yourself and your colleagues, it is essential to follow all safety measures when working at height.

Compliance with the law requires completing risk assessments and implementing proper safety controls. Training is a vital part of these controls, including both induction and regular refresher training to ensure adherence to best practices. This toolbox talk aims to help managers educate employees on staying safe while working at height.

The Risks of Working at Height

It’s crucial not to underestimate the risks of working at height. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 26% of fatal injuries suffered by UK workers between 2017 and 2022 were due to falls from height, averaging 35 deaths per year.

Falls from height are:

• The leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry.
• The third leading cause of fatalities in the food and drink manufacturing sector.
• Responsible for 8% of all non-fatal workplace injuries across all UK industry sectors.

Falls, even from heights of less than two meters, can result in severe injuries or death. Additionally, fall arrest injuries, severe shock, or ongoing medical issues can occur.

Work at Height Training

Our Working at Height Training course helps trainees comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 by providing vital information and control measures to manage height-related risks effectively.

The Hazards of Working at Height

Common hazards include:

• Falling through fragile surfaces
• Overreaching while on ladders
• Unstable working platforms
• Unsuitable equipment
• Overloading ladders
• Working too close to electrical lines
• Hazardous weather conditions
• Falling tools or materials
• Slips and trips
• Placing ladders against weak surfaces
• Improperly securing scaffolding
• Poor visibility

What the Law Says About Working at Height

Two main pieces of legislation govern working at height: the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (WAHR) and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA 1974). The HSWA 1974 provides general workplace safety rules, while the WAHR offers specific guidelines for working at height.

Employer’s Duties Under WAHR
Employers must:

• Avoid the need for working at height where possible.
• Conduct risk assessments for working at height.
• Develop and implement measures to control risks.
• Plan and organize all tasks involving working at height.
• Ensure measures to prevent falls are in place before work commences.
• Use protective measures such as guardrails, harnesses, safety nets, or scaffolding.
• Ensure all equipment is in good working order.
• Develop a working at height rescue plan.
• Provide training for all staff working at height.

Employee’s Duties Under WAHR
Employees must:

• Follow all safety procedures and use safety equipment correctly.
• Conduct pre-checks of all equipment.
• Report any safety concerns.
• Participate in all provided training.
• Understand their roles and the risks involved.

Penalties for Breaching WAHR Failure to comply can result in criminal charges, unlimited fines, or imprisonment.

Essential Control Measures for Working at Height

1. Avoid working at height if possible.
2. Use suitable equipment such as MEWPs or scaffolding instead of ladders.
3. Ensure all equipment is appropriate for the task.
4. Control risks from fragile surfaces or falling objects.
5. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety belts, fall arresters, and lifelines.

What to Do Before Working at Height

Before starting any task involving height:

• Assess and inspect the work environment.
• Mark or cordon off fragile edges and surfaces with guardrails.
• Identify and evaluate all risks.
• Implement appropriate control measures.
• Prepare a detailed working at height plan.
• Assign tasks to competent individuals.
• Inform colleagues of all hazards and risks.
• Inspect and test all equipment.

How to Stay Safe While Working at Height

For tasks requiring over 30 minutes at height:

• Complete as many tasks as possible from ground level.
• Ensure all scaffolding or ladders are secured and stable.
• Confirm scaffolding or ladders can bear the weight of workers and equipment.
• Check weather conditions are suitable.
• Use appropriate PPE.
• Ensure all guardrails, toe guards, and edge barriers are in place.
• Keep working platforms clean and clear of debris.
• Provide clear instructions to your team.
• Ensure all team members are competent.

Best Practices for Working at Height

• Always conduct a risk assessment.
• Ensure physical and mental fitness for tasks.
• Use appropriate equipment such as crawling boards on sloping or fragile surfaces.
• Secure tools and materials to prevent slips and trips.
• Install guardrails and issue safety harnesses.
• Use chutes to lower materials.
• Cordon off openings or fragile surface areas.
• Restrict unauthorized access to the work area.
• Ensure proper training and competence for the task.

Importance of Working at Height Training

Training helps prevent accidents and reduce risks associated with working at height. It equips you with the skills, knowledge, and competence to work safely and use fall protection equipment correctly.

Our Working at Height Training course covers:

• Relevant legislation and legal responsibilities.
• Selection of anchor points and equipment inspection.
• Need for emergency procedures.
• Practical training on equipment use and movement with energy-absorbing lanyards.

Keep your training up to date to stay safe and compliant.

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For more information on our services and supplying and installing critical fall protection equipment call 020 8558 5688 or email [email protected]