Working at Height FAQs

Answering FAQs such as what is classed at working at height, and questions relating to responsibilities, practical safety measures and legislation.

What is working at height?

The HSE classifies working at height as when you:

  • Work above ground/floor level
  • Could fall from an edge, through an opening or fragile surface or
  • Could fall from ground level into an opening in a floor or a hole in the ground

When can you use a ladder for working at height?

Ladders can be used for working at height tasks when a risk assessment of the task shows that using equipment with higher level of fall protection is not justified e.g. task is low risk, duration of task is short or there are existing workplace features which cannot be altered. The assessment must be undertaken by someone that is competent and a safe system of work is in place.

What is a working platform?

A working platform includes:

  • A roof
  • A floor
  • Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
  • Treads of a stepladder
  • A platform on a scaffold

What is collective and personal fall prevention?

Collective protection is equipment that does not require the person working at height to act for it to be effective and protects all those that might be working there. This includes designed walkways, guardrails, scissor lifts and tower scaffolds.

Personal protection on the other hand requires the individual to act for it to be effective. An example would be correctly wearing a safety harness correctly and connecting it, with an energy-absorbing lanyard, to a suitable anchor point.

How far can I fall without hurting myself?

There is no clear answer as every fall is different and best not fall at all. The depth and severity of injuries depend on factors such as the distance, the person’s age and weight, the way you land and what you might land on e.g. debris or sharp objects.

Who is deemed suitable to undertake work at height tasks?

Working at height requires the right skills, knowledge and experience to perform the task. Undertaking training gives the trainee the necessary tools to understand the risks associated with working at height. Ultimately it is an employers responsibility to define what the competence levels are based on knowledge, training, experience and knowing when they have reached their level of competence and stop to gain further help.

What is classed as working at height?

Working at height is defined as any work where a person could fall a distance liable to cause injury. This includes working above ground or floor level, in places where there is a risk of falling into an opening or hole, or on fragile surfaces.

This definition is stated in the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

What is the main legislation that covers working at height?

The main legislation covering working at height in the UK is the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

Can you do working at heights training online?

Yes, working at heights training can often be completed online. At Praxis42 we offer Working at Height Training which covers the theoretical aspects of working at height, such as identifying risks, understanding legislation, and learning about safety measures and equipment.

Some roles may require hands-on training in addition to the online component to ensure competency in using equipment or performing specific tasks.

Do electricians work at height?

Tasks such as installing or maintaining overhead wiring, working on lighting systems, or accessing electrical installations on ceilings or rooftops may require working at height.

Electricians must follow safety guidelines and use appropriate equipment, such as ladders, scaffolding, or mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), to minimise the risk of falls and ensure compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

Do plumbers work at heights?

Jobs such as installing or maintaining pipes, gutters, or roofing systems often require working on ladders, scaffolding, or elevated platforms.

Plumbers must adhere to safety regulations, use appropriate fall protection equipment, and follow the Work at Height Regulations 2005 to minimise risks.

Do you need training to work at height?

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 mandate that anyone who works at height must be competent, which includes receiving adequate training.

Training ensures individuals understand the risks, can use equipment correctly, and know how to implement safe working practices. Depending on the role, this may include online Working at Height Training, practical sessions, or a combination of both.

How long is working at heights course?

Praxis42 Working at Height Training takes about 25-30 minutes to complete.

How often should working at height equipment be inspected?

Working at height equipment should be inspected before each use, periodically (usually every 6 months) by a competent person, and after exceptional circumstances like damage or a fall. Regular inspections ensure safety and compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

How often should working at height training be refreshed?

Working at height training should be refreshed every two to three years or as required by your organisation’s policies.

Refresher training may also be necessary after changes in regulations, equipment, or procedures, or following incidents that highlight a need for improved understanding.

Regular updates ensure employees remain competent, compliant with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, and have the knowledge and skills to work safely.

Is a permanent staircase working at height?

A permanent staircase is not considered working at height under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, as it is designed for safe access and does not normally present a risk of falling from a height.

However, activities performed on or around a staircase, such as maintenance or installation work that involves elevated positions, are classed as working at height if there is a risk of falling. In such cases, appropriate precautions must be taken to ensure safety.

Is working at height training a legal requirement?

Yes, working at height training is a legal requirement under the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

The regulations state that anyone involved in work at height must be competent, which includes receiving adequate training. This ensures workers understand the risks, know how to use equipment safely, and can implement appropriate safety measures.

Training helps minimise risks, prevent accidents, and ensure compliance with the law.

What are the risks of working at height?

The main risks of working at height include falls from ladders or platforms, falling objects, structural failures, slippery surfaces due to weather, and inadequate safety measures.

Thorough risk assessments, training, and equipment are essential to minimise these hazards and comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

What are toe boards used for when working at height?

Toe boards are used when working at height to prevent tools, materials, or other objects from falling off elevated work surfaces such as scaffolding, platforms, or guardrails. They are an essential safety feature to protect workers below from injuries caused by falling objects and help ensure compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

What is the hierarchy of control for working at height?

The hierarchy of control for working at height, as detailed in the Work at Height Regulations 2005, covers the following steps:

  1. Avoid work at height. If possible, design tasks to be performed from the ground to eliminate the need for working at height.
  2. Prevent falls. Use collective safety measures like guardrails, scaffolding, or barriers to prevent falls where work at height is unavoidable.
  3. Mitigate consequences. If falls cannot be entirely prevented, use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as harnesses and fall arrest systems to minimise injury.
  4. Ensure safe access. Provide secure and stable means of access, such as ladders or elevated platforms, and ensure equipment is properly inspected.
  5. Train and supervise. Ensure workers are adequately trained, competent, and supervised to perform tasks safely.

What PPE do we use for working at height?

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 do not specify exact wind speed limits for working at height. However, industry guidelines and best practices provide recommendations to ensure safety:

  • For ladders and scaffolding, work is usually deemed unsafe at wind speeds exceeding 17 mph (27 km/h) or in gusty conditions.
  • For mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) and cranes, the manufacturer’s guidelines should be followed, but work is often stopped at wind speeds above 28 mph (45 km/h).
  • For construction hoists or materials handling, specific limits will also be set by equipment manufacturers.

Always consult the equipment’s operating manual and carry out a risk assessment considering site-specific conditions.

What work at height requires a rescue plan?

All work at height requires a rescue plan under the Work at Height Regulations 2005. This is crucial for tasks using harnesses, working in confined spaces, or on scaffolding and MEWPs.

Plans must include procedures, equipment, and trained personnel to ensure prompt and effective rescues.

When is a working at heights permit required?

A working at heights permit is usually required when tasks involve significant risks, such as working on scaffolding, elevated platforms, roofs, or near fragile surfaces.

The permit ensures that a risk assessment has been conducted and that safety measures, such as fall protection equipment and rescue plans, are in place.

While not mandated by the Work at Height Regulations 2005, many organisations use permits as part of their internal safety management systems to ensure compliance and minimise hazards.

How much is working at heights training?

Praxis42 online Working at Height Training costs £25 for an individual purchase.

Training is a cost-effective way to ensure employees have essential knowledge to identify risks, comply with regulations, and adopt safe practices when working at height.

What are some suitable control measures for working at heights?

Suitable control measures for working at heights focus on eliminating or minimising risks and ensuring compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

Measures include:

  • Avoid working at height. Where possible, design tasks to be performed from the ground, such as using long-handled tools.
  • Conduct risk assessments. Assess the task, environment, and equipment to identify potential hazards and mitigate them.
  • Training and competency. Ensure workers are trained and competent to work safely at height and use equipment correctly.
  • Use collective safety measures. Install guardrails, toe boards, or scaffolding to prevent falls.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE). Use harnesses, lanyards, and fall arrest systems when collective measures are not feasible.
  • Ensure stable access. Provide safe equipment like ladders, mobile platforms, or cherry pickers that are stable and appropriate for the task.
  • Regular inspections. Inspect all equipment and access points before use and at regular intervals to ensure they are safe and in good condition.

What do the Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to?

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to all work at height where there is a risk of falling that could cause injury.

  • Above round or floor level: such as working on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated platforms.
  • Below ground level: if there is a risk of falling, such as into excavations or pits.
  • On fragile surfaces: such as roofs or other materials that may break under load.
  • Involving equipment: such as mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), ropes, or harnesses.

The regulations cover employers, the self-employed, and any person in control of work at height, requiring them to plan, assess risks, and implement measures to prevent falls. The goal is to ensure safety and minimise hazards for all tasks performed at height.

Who might be harmed working at height?

The following might be harmed by working at height:

  • Workers. Those directly involved in tasks at height are at risk of falls or accidents caused by improper use of equipment or lack of safety measures.
  • Co-workers below. People working or passing underneath are vulnerable to injuries from falling tools, materials, or debris.
  • Public. In areas accessible to the public, such as near construction sites or maintenance work, bystanders may be at risk from falling objects or other hazards.
  • Rescue personnel. Emergency responders may face risks during rescue operations, particularly if the environment is unstable or poorly planned.

To minimise these risks, thorough planning, risk assessments, and the implementation of control measures are essential.