Adhering to Working at Heights Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide

For professions requiring work at elevated locations, additional training is crucial to meet the regulations associated with these high-risk situations. These situations aren't limited to ladders but also include step ladders or any elevated surface. The Work at Height Regulation 2005 aims to mitigate risks associated with falls, a leading cause of workplace fatalities and injuries.

Understanding the Work at Height Regulation 2005

These regulations apply to any situation that presents a risk of a fall from a height, even those falling below ground level. Notably, these regulations do not stipulate a minimum or maximum height. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) offers a comprehensive guide to working at height, available in the student resources section of this course.

Planning and Organising Work

The regulations mandate that all work should be avoided where possible, and should be planned and organised considering all individuals potentially involved or affected. Weather conditions and risks of falling objects, which could cause injury, should also be considered.

Site and Equipment Safety

The work site should be suitable and safe with equipment regularly checked and maintained. Consideration should be given to potential hazards, such as fragile surfaces, roof lights, corroded areas, sharp surfaces or slip hazards. Ensure that only trained and competent individuals carry out the work.

Choosing Competent Personnel

Work at height should be done only if it cannot be performed from ground level. The employer should also plan for emergencies and consider all risk assessments. Employees are responsible for reporting and not using any equipment that is damaged or unfit for purpose. The individual assigned for working at height should be competent, free from medical problems and comfortable with heights.

Additional Precautions and Equipment

In many workplaces, working at height involves using small platforms or step ladders. It's essential to ensure the safety measures adhere to the company's risk assessments, like having non-slip rubber feet or requiring two people for ladder use. Warning signs should be displayed in the work area.

The Hierarchy of Working at Heights

The first step is to avoid work at height where possible. If this isn't feasible, equipment or other measures should be used to prevent falls, such as the use of cherry pickers. Lastly, if the risk cannot be entirely eliminated, work equipment should be used to minimise the risk and impact of a fall.