How to Prevent Falls from Height – Best Practices for Employers

Falls from height are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities, particularly in the construction, maintenance, and warehousing industries. Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to minimise these risks by implementing best practices, ensuring compliance with UK safety regulations, and providing the right equipment and training.

This article outlines proven strategies for preventing falls from height and protecting employees.

Understanding Legal Obligations

Employers in the UK must adhere to the following regulations:

1. The Work at Height Regulations 2005

The  The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require employers to:

• Avoid working at height where possible.
• Use appropriate equipment to prevent falls.
• Implement measures to minimise fall risks when working at height cannot be avoided.
• Train employees on safety measures.
• Regularly inspect and maintain all fall protection equipment.

2. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

This Health and Safety at Work Act places a duty of care on employers to ensure the safety of employees by providing a safe working environment.

3. The Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022

To comply with The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, employers must supply suitable and well-maintained Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to workers operating at height.

Best Practices for Preventing Falls from Height

1. Conduct a Risk Assessment

Before any work at height begins, employers must:

• Identify potential fall hazards.
• Assess the severity of the risks involved.
• Implement control measures to eliminate or minimise risks.

2. Use the Right Equipment

Employers should provide the most appropriate fall prevention and fall arrest systems, including:

• Ladders and step ladders – Only when necessary and used with appropriate safety precautions.
• Scaffolding and guardrails – For stable and secure working platforms.
• Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) – For working safely at different heights.
• Harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points – As part of a complete fall arrest system.

3. Ensure Proper Training and Competency

All workers operating at height must:

• Receive sufficient training on height safety.
• Be competent in using fall protection equipment.
• Understand emergency procedures in case of a fall.

4. Implement Fall Prevention Systems

Wherever possible, implement collective protection measures such as:

• Guardrails and edge protection to prevent falls.
• Safety nets and air bags to minimise injury risks.
• Toe boards to prevent objects from falling and causing injuries below.

5. Enforce Safe Working Procedures

Employers should create and enforce clear safety procedures, including:

• Limiting access to authorised personnel only.
• Establishing secure anchorage points before beginning work.
• Using tool lanyards to prevent falling equipment hazards.

6. Conduct Regular Equipment Inspections and Maintenance

All fall protection equipment should be:

• Routinely inspected before use.
• Maintained according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Replaced immediately if found damaged or faulty.

7. Develop an Emergency Rescue Plan

In the event of a fall, a swift and effective rescue plan should be in place. Employers must:

• Provide workers with rescue training.
• Ensure fall arrest systems are designed for prompt retrieval.
• Have trained first aiders on-site at all times.

Conclusion

Preventing falls from height requires a combination of risk assessments, proper equipment, training, and ongoing safety measures. By adhering to UK regulations and implementing these best practices, employers can create a safer work environment and reduce the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.

Our Working at Height: Ladders and Stepladder Training Course is designed to deliver clear instruction on safe use of ladders and stepladders.