Falls from height at work
Accidents at work that are a result of falling from height are some of the most serious types, and are sadly some of the fatal accidents recorded each year.
Falling from height at work can range from falling a few feet off a step ladder to falling hundreds of feet from a bridge whilst repairing it.
As part of The Work at Height regulations duty holders must ensure:
- All work at height is planned and organised
- Those involved in working at height are competent
- All risks in working at height are assessed and appropriate work equipment is selected and used
- The equipment is properly inspected and maintained
One of the most common falls from height accidents at work are falls from ladders. Some ladders used at work have not been maintained correctly which means they are unsuitable for the job in hand, this causes many accidents. Other accidents happen due to people being asked to carry tools when using ladders. This can mean the worker cannot grip the ladder correctly and because of this can fall. The lack of stabilisers at the feet of a ladder can cause a ladder to slip away when being used.
Falls from scaffolding are common. This can be due to scaffolding not being erected correctly or workers not using the correct harnessing equipment.
Safety equipment must be used when working at height. It is the responsibility of an employer to provide and make sure employees are using such equipment when working at height.
