Working Over Voids and Openings

Voids and openings in floors, decks, and roofs are created during construction for stairs, lifts, services, and access.
Falls through unprotected openings account for a significant proportion of fatal work-at-height incidents in the UK.
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require all openings to be protected by covers, guardrails, or safety nets.
Covers must be secured in position, clearly marked, and strong enough to support foreseeable loads.
Guardrails around openings must include a top rail at 950mm minimum, a mid-rail, and a toeboard.
Openings can be created or enlarged during the day by different trades without adequate communication.
Temporary covers are frequently removed and not replaced, creating unprotected fall hazards.
Poorly lit areas make it harder to see openings, increasing the risk of stepping into unguarded voids.
Fall arrest systems or safety nets may be needed where covers and guardrails are not practicable.
A permit to alter or remove void protection should be required on all sites.

Prevent fatalities	Falls through unprotected floor openings are frequently fatal — the drop is often onto a hard surface several floors below.
Legal requirement	The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require employers to guard all openings through which a person could fall.
Multi-trade risk	Openings created or altered by one trade endanger all others — coordinated protection is essential.

Do

Don't

Install guardrails or secured covers over all floor openings immediately after creation
Mark covers clearly with "VOID BELOW — DO NOT REMOVE" or similar warning text
Ensure covers can support at least the weight of a person plus any foreseeable loads
Secure covers so they cannot be accidentally dislodged by foot traffic or vibration
Inspect all void protection at the start of each shift and after other trades finish work
Use a permit system before anyone removes or alters protection over voids
Provide adequate lighting near openings so they can be clearly seen at all times
Install safety nets below openings where covers or guardrails are not practicable
Brief all trades about void locations and the rules for maintaining protection
Report any removed, damaged, or missing void protection immediately to the supervisor

DON'T leave any floor opening unprotected even for a few minutes
DON'T remove void covers or guardrails without a permit and replacement plan
DON'T use materials as covers that cannot support the weight of a person
DON'T place unsecured boards over openings — they slide and tip under foot
DON'T store materials on top of void covers where they obscure the warning markings
DON'T walk across floor areas in poor lighting where voids may be present
DON'T assume someone else has reinstated protection after removing it
DON'T create new openings without immediately installing edge protection or covers
DON'T work near unprotected edges without fall arrest or restraint equipment
DON'T ignore partially guarded openings — complete the protection before moving on

See also: Edge Protection Requirements | Falls From Height Awareness

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