Every task involving work at height on a UK construction site must be covered by a specific risk assessment before the work begins. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require employers to avoid work at height where possible, and where it cannot be avoided, to select the safest method and equipment. A thorough risk assessment is the foundation of every safe work at height activity. This talk explains what the assessment must cover and who is responsible.
Key Hazards
Falls from height when risks are not identified before work starts
Incorrect access equipment selected for the task and environment
Falling objects striking workers below unprotected work areas
Inadequate rescue planning when fall arrest systems are specified
Control Measures
Complete a task-specific risk assessment before any work at height activity begins.
Apply the hierarchy: avoid work at height, prevent falls, mitigate falls in that order.
Identify all edges, openings, fragile surfaces, and falling object risks at the work location.
Select the most suitable access equipment for the duration, height, and nature of the task.
Include a rescue plan in the risk assessment whenever personal fall protection is required.
Assess weather conditions including wind, rain, and ice as part of the risk evaluation.
Brief all operatives on the risk assessment findings and control measures before starting work.
Review the risk assessment if site conditions change or a near miss occurs during the task.
Record the assessment and keep it available on site for inspection throughout the works.
Remember
Every work at height task must have a specific risk assessment completed before it begins
Follow the hierarchy: avoid the work at height first, then prevent falls, then mitigate them
Include a rescue plan whenever fall arrest equipment is specified in the assessment
Assess weather conditions as part of the risk evaluation before each shift at height
Review the risk assessment whenever site conditions change or a near miss occurs
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · MHSWR 1999 · CDM 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974