Working at height

Some businesses have to work at heights every day. As one of the most common causes of workplace injuries, employers should take this seriously.

There are regulations in place that ensure employers take the necessary precautions to minimise the risk of injury.

Working at height definition

The Health and Safety Executive defines working at heights as a situation in which “a person may fall to a dangerous distance, leading to personal injury” if no precautions are taken.

If:

• You could fall through an opening, from an edge, or on a fragile surface.
• You can work at any height, including above the ground level or floor level
• You could fall through a hole or opening in the ground.

Window washers, roofers and scaffolders are all examples of workers who regularly work at height.

If you can fall down from one level to another, then you are working at height. Working at height does not require a certain minimum height.

Working at Height Regulations Act, 2005 requires that fall protection or personal protective equipment be worn at a height greater than two metres. If you want more information on the IPAF Course, visit https://globalflt.com/services/ipaf/

Work at Height Regulations

HSE reports that falls from height are the leading cause of fatal workplace accidents. It’s important that both employers and employees follow regulations.

For less experienced employees who may be learning as they go, it’s important to ensure that they are supervised by someone of the appropriate level of competence.

Working at height risk assessment

Assessing risks can prevent accidents in the future. Risk assessment is not complicated when working at height.

Working at height requires:

• Look for hazards or potential dangers
• Decide what steps you will take to minimise the risk.
• Take note of any risks you identify.
• Refer to your assessment to ensure you are following the guidelines.