Working at height: safety rules every tradesperson must know

Working at height causes more deaths in the construction industry than anything else. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height account for around a third of all fatal injuries to workers in Great Britain each year. For tradespeople who spend time on roofs, scaffolding, ladders and platforms, understanding the rules is not optional.

The Work at Height Regulations 2005

The main legislation is the Work at Height Regulations 2005, which applies to all work where a person could fall and injure themselves. There is no minimum height threshold. If you could fall and hurt yourself, the regulations apply.

The hierarchy of control

You must follow a hierarchy of control when planning work at height: first avoid work at height where possible; second prevent falls using collective protection such as scaffolding with guardrails; third minimise consequences of a fall using personal fall protection (harnesses and lanyards) where collective protection is not practicable.

Using ladders legally

Ladders are appropriate for short-duration work where the risk is low. HSE guidance says ladders are suitable where: the work is of short duration (generally less than 30 minutes at a time); the work is light and does not require both hands free simultaneously; the risk assessment shows a ladder is proportionate.

When using a ladder: secure it at the top or have someone foot it at the bottom; ensure it rises at least 1 metre above the landing point; position it at a 75-degree angle (one out for every four up); inspect it before use; never over-reach.

Scaffolding requirements

Scaffolding must be erected, altered and dismantled by a competent person. Key requirements include: guardrails at least 950mm high on all open sides; intermediate guardrails so no gap exceeds 470mm; toe boards at least 150mm high; safe access and egress; inspection by a competent person before first use, after any stability event, and at least every seven days; inspection records kept.

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms

Cherry pickers, boom lifts and scissor lifts operators must be trained, normally holding an IPAF certificate. Before use: check ground conditions; carry out a pre-use inspection; wear a harness attached to the anchor point inside the platform; never lean over the guard rails.

Roof work

For roof work you need edge protection when working near a roof edge; roof ladders or crawling boards on pitched roofs; covers or barriers over roof lights and openings; signs warning of fragile surfaces. Do not assume a surface will bear your weight. Check before you step on any unfamiliar roof surface.

Personal protective equipment

Where collective measures are not enough, personal fall protection equipment must be used. Harnesses must be attached to a suitable anchor point. Lanyards must be the right length to prevent hitting the ground if you fall. All PPE must be inspected before each use and have a thorough examination at least every 12 months. Records of inspections must be kept.

Competence and training

You must be competent to work at height. For most trades this means formal training (PASMA for mobile towers, IPAF for MEWPs) combined with on-the-job experience. If you send workers to work at height, check their competence before they start.

Risk assessments

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, you must carry out a risk assessment before work at height begins. A risk assessment should cover: the nature and duration of work; equipment chosen and why; condition of the structure; weather conditions; emergency procedures. Do not work at height in high winds or icy conditions.

FAQ

Is there a minimum height before working at height regulations apply?

No. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply whenever someone could fall and injure themselves, regardless of height.

Can I use a ladder for roof work?

A ladder can be used to access a roof but should not be relied on as a working platform for extended roof work. You need edge protection, roof ladders and, depending on the job, scaffolding.

Do I need a qualification to use a tower scaffold?

PASMA training is the accepted standard of competence to erect and use a mobile access tower. It will be required by most principal contractors.

Who is responsible for scaffolding safety on my job?

If you have scaffolding erected for your project, you are responsible for ensuring it is properly erected and inspected before use and at least every seven days while in use.

What should I do if I spot unsafe working at height?

Raise it with the site manager immediately. If there is an imminent risk of serious injury, report it to the HSE.