Leading edge work involves tasks at the advancing edge of a roof, floor slab, or elevated deck where permanent edge protection has not yet been installed. This is one of the most dangerous working at height scenarios because the fall hazard moves with the work. Falls from leading edges account for a significant proportion of construction fatalities each year in the UK.
Key Hazards
Falls from the unprotected leading edge of a roof or floor slab
Wind gusts pushing workers off balance near unprotected edges
Materials sliding off the leading edge striking workers below
Inadequate anchor points for personal fall protection systems
Control Measures
Install temporary edge protection as close to the leading edge as practicable before work starts.
Use personal fall arrest or restraint systems where edge protection cannot keep pace with the work.
Ensure anchor points for personal fall protection are rated and positioned by a competent person.
Brief all operatives on the leading edge boundary and the fall protection system in use.
Use safety nets below the working level as collective protection where practicable.
Restrict access to the leading edge area to trained and authorised workers only.
Monitor wind speed and stop leading edge work when conditions exceed safe limits.
Advance the edge protection system progressively as the leading edge moves forward.
Ensure a rescue plan is in place and practised before any leading edge work begins.
Emergency / Rescue
If a worker falls from the leading edge, call 999 immediately. Do not move the casualty unless in immediate danger. If suspended in a harness, activate the rescue plan and lower them within 10 minutes to prevent suspension trauma.
Remember
Leading edge work requires fall protection before permanent edge protection is installed
Use personal fall arrest or restraint where temporary edge protection cannot keep pace
Anchor points must be rated and positioned by a competent person for every task
Restrict access to the leading edge area to authorised and trained workers only
A rescue plan must be in place and practised before leading edge work begins
Stop work immediately when wind speed exceeds safe limits near unprotected edges
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · CDM 2015 · MHSWR 1999 · BS EN 13374 (Temporary Edge Protection Systems)