7 things you need to consider when working at height

Working at height remains one of the biggest occupational risks – and the consequences can be life-changing.

In 2024/25, falls from height accounted for 28% of all work-related fatal injuries (35 work-related deaths) and 8% of non-fatal work-related injuries (54,400 injuries).  While presenting a significant risk factor across all industry sectors, the proportion of worker deaths due to falls from height was highest in construction (53%, an average of 21 deaths per year).

Hazards associated with falls from height include unsafe work at height equipment; unprotected edges; unsafe working practices, e.g. over-reaching; fragile surfaces; falling objects and contact with overhead obstructions, power lines etc.

HERE ARE 7 SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS YOU NEED TO MAKE WHEN WORKING AT HEIGHT

Working at height should always be carefully planned. This includes selecting the right equipment, ensuring workers are well-trained, and considering how an emergency rescue would be carried out.  Key considerations when planning work at height include:

1. Avoid working at height where possible

Where possible, carry out tasks from ground level whenever practical. Examples include using extendable tools, lowering lighting rigs for maintenance, or assembling edge protection at ground level.

2. Use an existing safe place of work

Where work at height cannot be avoided, an existing safe place of work should be used, for example, a flat roof with edge protection. Existing safe places of work should be suitable for the task; provide sufficient workspace; include measures to prevent falls or falling objects and minimise the risk of slips, trips and trapping.

3. Provide access equipment

When there is no existing safe place to work from, access equipment fitted with guardrails should be provided. Give priority to collective measures, such as guard rails, over personal protection such as fall arrest equipment. Equipment should be strong enough for the work and any loads placed on it.

Whatever equipment is selected, it must be assembled, installed, and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular inspections and maintenance are equally important to identify any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration before they become a major safety risk.

Taking the time to choose the right equipment and maintain it properly can help prevent accidents and ensure work is carried out safely and efficiently.

4. Prevent falling objects

Always take measures to prevent objects from falling. This can be achieved by using toe boards, brick guards, debris netting, and by securing tools and materials where appropriate.

Where the risk of falling objects cannot be completely eliminated, steps should be taken to protect those below. This may include establishing exclusion zones, erecting barriers and clear warning signs, and preventing unauthorised access to the area.

5. Fragile Surfaces

Fragile surfaces present a particular danger, especially during roof work. Roof lights, fibre cement sheets, and corroded roof panels can appear safe but may not be capable of supporting a person’s weight.

No one should work on or near a fragile surface unless the task cannot be carried out any other way. Where access is unavoidable, suitable measures must be put in place to prevent a fall. These may include working platforms, covers, crawling boards, and guard rails designed to provide a safe working area.

6. Minimise the consequences of a fall

Where the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated, use measures to reduce the distance and impact of a fall, such as fall arrest systems – including harnesses and lanyards. Common examples of fall arrest equipment include harnesses and lanyards, safety nets, and airbags. Unlike fall prevention measures, such as guard rails or edge protection, fall arrest systems do not stop a person from falling. Instead, they are designed to minimise the impact of a fall and reduce the likelihood of serious injury.

For fall arrest equipment to be effective, it must be suitable for the task, correctly installed, and regularly inspected. Workers should also receive appropriate training in its use and understand the limitations of the equipment. Emergency rescue arrangements should be planned, as a person suspended in a harness may require prompt assistance to avoid further injury.

Fall arrest equipment should only be considered a last line of defence. Wherever possible, the priority should be to prevent a fall from happening in the first place.

7. Provide information and training

Ensure workers understand the risks, know how to use equipment correctly, and are competent to carry out the task safely. Provide information, instruction, and/or training relevant to the work at height situation, ensure that workers are competent to work safely and implement regular monitoring and checks to ensure that safe systems are being observed.

How AAB can help

If you have any concerns or would like help implementing safety procedures for working at height, our People Team is here to help. Please get in touch with Lee Craig or your usual AAB contact.