Working at height is one of the biggest causes of injuries and fatalities at work. Those who work on ladders and fragile surfaces are especially at risk. That’s why work at height is subject to so many rules and regulations.
But what even counts as working at height? Do you have to be on top of a skyscraper, or do the same rules apply even when you’re only a few inches off the ground?
What does ‘working at height’ mean?
According to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), working at height includes any type of work situation where – if the proper precautions were not taken – a person could fall, resulting in personal injury.
To qualify as a fall from height, a person must have fallen from one level to a lower level.
This includes working…
- above ground level
- from a height hazard such as an edge, opening or fragile surface
- from ground level with a hole in the ground
Working at height is NOT…
- a slip or a fall on one level
- ascending and descending a permanent staircase within a building
Working at height definition: jobs and examples
It’s not just construction workers who are at risk of a fall from height. Lots of professions require employees to work at height. Here are some examples:
- Scaffolders
- Electricians
- Telecommunications technicians
- Joiners
- Plumbers
- Commercial window cleaners
- Roofers
- Engineers
Within these roles, a person may encounter several work situations that require them to work at height. These include:
Working at height safety equipment
Personal protection equipment (PPE) such as safety harnesses can be used in certain conditions to control the risks of working at height. Other forms of height safety equipment may be necessary, such as:
What are the rules for working at height with a harness?
You must choose a safety harness that is suited to the job and connect it to a suitable anchor point using a shock-absorbing safety lanyard.
The type of safety harness needed will depend on the job. You’ll need to consider factors such as the load capacity, visibility, fire resistance, attachments, etc.
For example, if you’re a construction worker, you’ll likely need a harness with multiple attachment points in order to position yourself when working. You might also require a harness that can carry extra weight if you’re working with heavy tools and materials.
READ MORE: Safety Harness Types: What Do You Need?
Working at height equipment from Safety Harness Direct
We specialise in working at height equipment and pride ourselves on only stocking trusted manufacturers to bring you the best equipment on the market.
If you’d like any help with your purchase, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team. We can advise you on the best products to suit your needs.
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