Why this matters
A 2-metre fall onto concrete kills people. Falls from height are not slowly fatal - they are immediately fatal. Most fatalities happen on routine work, not unusual operations. The risk is not the work itself but complacency about it.
Key hazards and controls
Hazard 1: Unstable working platforms
Control: All scaffolding inspected by competent person every 7 days, documented
Hazard 2: Edge of unguarded openings
Control: Edge protection (handrails, toe boards) on every open edge above 2m
Hazard 3: Fragile roof surfaces
Control: Crawl boards, fall arrest systems, exclusion zones around fragile materials
Hazard 4: Ladders being used as work platforms
Control: Ladders for access only - not for prolonged work. Use towers or scaffolding for work
Hazard 5: Fall arrest systems not properly anchored
Control: Anchor points rated and inspected. Lanyard length suitable for fall distance
Hazard 6: Workers not wearing harnesses correctly
Control: Daily check before each use. Toolbox talk on correct fitting
Key messages
- 1.Avoid working at height where reasonably practicable
- 2.Where you cannot avoid it, use equipment that prevents falls (scaffolding, MEWPs)
- 3.Where prevention is not possible, use equipment that minimises consequences (fall arrest)
- 4.Daily check on all height equipment before use
- 5.Never work at height alone - always have a buddy or supervisor in line of sight
Signs of trouble (for supervisors)
Things to spot during site walks that suggest the message has not landed:
- !Damaged scaffolding tags or missing inspection records
- !Workers climbing scaffolds outside designated access points
- !Harnesses worn loose or not connected to anchor points
- !Tools or materials carried up ladders rather than hoisted
- !Workers stepping over edge protection without permits
Questions to ask workers
Use these in your daily walkrounds and toolbox talks:
- Q.What is your maximum working height today?
- Q.Have you done a safety check on your harness this morning?
- Q.Where are the designated anchor points for your fall arrest system?
- Q.What is the wind speed forecast and at what point do you stop work?
- Q.Who is your buddy if something goes wrong at height?
UK legislation
- SSWork at Height Regulations 2005
- SSHealth and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
- SSCDM 2015
- SSManagement of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
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