Whether you're using a ladder, working from a scaffold tower, operating a MEWP, or carrying out roof maintenance, understanding the hazards when working at height is essential for protecting yourself and those around you.
In this guide, we'll explain how working at height is defined, who the regulations are designed to protect, the most common hazards, current working at height statistics, and practical ways to stay safe.
How Working at Height Is Defined
One of the most common questions people ask is how working at height is defined.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, working at height means any place where a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury if suitable precautions are not taken.
This definition includes:
- Working on roofs
- Using ladders
- Mobile access towers
- Scaffolding
- Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
- Working near excavations
- Fragile roof surfaces
- Open edges
- Loading bays
- Elevated platforms
Many people assume working at height only applies to tall buildings, but even a fall from a step ladder can result in serious injury.
Official HSE guidance is available here:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/
Every working environment presents different risks, but some hazards are common across almost every industry.
Falls from Height
Falls remain the biggest risk.
They can occur due to:
- Slips
- Trips
- Loss of balance
- Equipment failure
- Incorrect ladder use
- Poor weather conditions
- Unsafe access routes
Even relatively low falls can cause broken bones, spinal injuries, or fatal head injuries.
Fragile Surfaces
Older industrial buildings often contain fragile roofs made from asbestos cement sheets, roof lights, or deteriorating materials.
Walking across these surfaces without suitable protection can result in workers falling through the roof.
Falling Objects
Working at height doesn't just present risks to those above ground.
Tools, materials, and equipment dropped from height can seriously injure workers below.
Exclusion zones, toe boards, and tool lanyards all help reduce this risk.
Unsafe Equipment
Damaged or poorly maintained equipment significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.
Common issues include:
- Damaged ladders
- Faulty scaffolding
- Defective harnesses
- Unstable mobile towers
- Poorly maintained MEWPs
Equipment should always be inspected before use.
Weather Conditions
Rain, snow, ice, and high winds all increase the risk of working at height.
Slippery surfaces reduce grip while strong winds can affect the stability of access equipment and workers carrying materials.
Work should be postponed whenever weather conditions make the task unsafe.
Who Are the Working at Height Regulations Designed to Keep Safe?
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to employers, employees, contractors, self-employed workers, and anyone responsible for organising work at height.
The regulations are designed to protect:
- Construction workers
- Roofers
- Electricians
- Maintenance engineers
- Window cleaners
- Warehouse staff
- Facilities management teams
- Members of the public who may be affected by work activities
Employers have a legal duty to ensure work is properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent people using suitable equipment.
Working at Height Statistics
The latest figures published by the HSE continue to highlight why working at height remains such a major health and safety concern.
According to the HSE:
- Falls from height remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities in Great Britain.
- Dozens of workers lose their lives every year following falls from height.
- Thousands more suffer serious injuries requiring time away from work.
- Construction continues to account for a significant proportion of these incidents.
Many of these accidents could be prevented through proper planning, suitable equipment, and effective training.
The latest workplace statistics can be found here:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/
Safety When Working at Height
Effective safety starts long before anyone leaves the ground.
Carry Out a Risk Assessment
Every task should begin with a suitable risk assessment.
This should identify:
- Hazards
- Control measures
- Suitable access equipment
- Weather conditions
- Emergency arrangements
Use the Right Equipment
Selecting appropriate equipment is essential.
Depending on the task this may include:
- Ladders
- PASMA mobile towers
- IPAF MEWPs
- Fixed scaffolding
- Harnesses
- Edge protection
The safest solution should always be chosen.
Before starting work, equipment should be inspected for damage or defects.
Routine inspections help identify issues before they become serious hazards.
Provide Appropriate Training
One of the most effective ways to reduce accidents is through proper training.
Workers should understand:
- Risk assessments
- Equipment inspections
- Safe working procedures
- Emergency rescue plans
- Manufacturer guidance
Training should be refreshed regularly to maintain competence.
Plan for Emergencies
Employers should have rescue procedures in place before work begins.
Relying solely on emergency services is rarely sufficient if someone becomes suspended in a harness or trapped on access equipment.
Why Working at Height Training Matters
Working at height training helps workers recognise hazards before accidents occur.
Training also helps employers demonstrate compliance with the Work at Height Regulations while creating a stronger culture of safety throughout the organisation.
Whether employees are using ladders, access towers, or MEWPs, understanding the risks and following safe working practices significantly reduces the likelihood of serious incidents.
At One Stop Safety Training, we provide accredited Working at Height Training, PASMA courses, IPAF training, and a wide range of health and safety courses designed to help businesses stay compliant and protect their workforce.
