The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require a specific hierarchy of control to be followed when planning any task at height. First, avoid working at height altogether. If it cannot be avoided, prevent falls using collective measures like guardrails and scaffolding. If falls cannot be prevented, minimise the distance and consequences using safety nets and harnesses. This hierarchy is not optional — it is a legal requirement. Selecting the correct level of protection for each task ensures that the most effective measures are used first.
Key Hazards
Fatal falls from choosing personal protection when collective measures were available
Workers defaulting to harnesses when guardrails or platforms should have been provided
Tasks carried out at height that could have been completed safely at ground level
Inadequate fall distance minimisation when prevention was not reasonably practicable
Control Measures
Apply the hierarchy in order for every task: avoid, prevent, then minimise the consequences of a fall.
Plan work at ground level wherever possible by prefabricating, pre-assembling, or adjusting the method.
Use collective protection such as guardrails, working platforms, and safety nets as the first preference.
Select personal fall protection such as harnesses only when collective measures are not reasonably practicable.
Document the hierarchy decision in the risk assessment showing why the selected measure was chosen.
Ensure the method statement specifies the fall protection measures for each stage of the task.
Review the hierarchy if conditions change and a higher-level control becomes available or necessary.
Train all workers in the hierarchy so they understand why specific protection methods are required.
Challenge any task where a lower-level control is being used without adequate justification.
Remember
The hierarchy of control is a legal requirement, not a guideline — it must be followed for every task.
Avoid working at height first by redesigning the task to be done safely at ground level.
Collective protection like guardrails prevents falls for everyone and does not rely on individual behaviour.
Harnesses are the last resort, not the default, and must only be used when collective measures are impracticable.
The risk assessment must document why the chosen control level is appropriate for each specific task.
If a higher-level control becomes available during the works, it should be adopted immediately.
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974