The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to all work at height where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury. They place duties on employers, the self-employed, and any person who control the work of others to the extent they control the work.

Falls from height are a major cause of injuries at work. In many cases, work at height is a 'one off' or incidental to the main job to be done. This means that people often don't recognise the risks and so don't take the precautions they need to, to work safely.

What is 'work at height'?

Any work that involves people being in a position from which they could fall and injure themselves, even if it is at or below ground level.

What is the problem?

Falling from height is the most common cause of workplace deaths.
In 2004/05, 53 people died and nearly 3800 were seriously injured as a result of falling from height at work, 60% of these injuries resulted from people falling below head height.
Falls from ladders and stepladders account for about a quarter of all injuries and it is estimated they cost the UK economy £60 million each year.

What do you need to do?

• Plan properly - think about the work you do and identify all the activities which involve work at height, don't forget one off jobs and tasks which only take a few minutes.
• Don't underestimate the risks, assess them - simply 'taking care' is not enough.
• Avoid 'work at height' where possible - Use different equipment or method of work - check what new equipment is available to buy or hire.
• Think about how fixtures and fittings, plant and services could be designed or installed to avoid the need to work at height.
• Select the right equipment and people - where possible, use equipment that prevents a fall .e.g. podium steps, cherry pickers or tower scaffolds, which have a working platform and guard rails - don't make do to save money or time.
• Check contractors are competent and have the experience to carry out the type of work you need to have done.
• Train those doing the work - make sure they know how to use the equipment properly, including erecting and dismantling it safely.
• Check contractors have suitable training, ask to see certificates.
• Inspect and maintain - make sure all equipment is regularly inspected - damaged equipment must either be repaired or taken out of use.
• Supervise and monitor - check work is being carried out as planned and the right equipment is being used.