Working at height is one of the most dangerous tasks that takes place in the workplace — and there’s statistics to back it up. In 2022, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) stated that falls from height accounted for 24% of all fatal injuries that year, making it the single largest cause of workplace fatalities in the UK. This shows just how important safety measures and legislation around working at height are. But what is the main legislation that covers work at height?

In this helpful guide, we’ll explore the Working at Height Regulations 2005 (WAHR), how it supports workplace safety and what type of accidents it covers.

What is the definition of working at height?

Let’s begin by focusing on what working at height really means. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines working at height as “work in any place where, if there were no precautions in place, a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury”. And according to the Working at Height Regulations 2005, there is no minimum height requirement — meaning working underground or at ground level might still count as working from height if there was a drop in the floor.

Employer responsibilities when working from height

When working at height, it’s down to your employer to keep you safe. Under the WAHR, they should be following these steps to ensure this is done:

Avoiding work at height

There is a legal requirement for employers to keep work from height at an absolute minimum — this may mean using tools or equipment to reduce the need for height-based tasks.

Safe planning and supervision

All work at height must be properly planned and supervised to ensure risks are managed effectively. This includes employers incorporating safety considerations into the workflow and assigning competent supervisors to oversee operations.

Risk assessments

Health and safety in the workplace always starts with a risk assessment. It’s up to employers to identify potential hazards like unstable surfaces, fragile ground or bad weather conditions before working from height. If a risk is identified, it must be addressed immediately before any work begins.

Equipment maintenance and inspection

Employers have to ensure all equipment — ladders, scaffolding, safety harnesses etc — are regularly maintained and inspected. This is so they meet CE or UKCA certification before any work is carried out.

Competent personnel and training

Employers should hire only the most qualified workers to supervise and train all employees that might be working at height. This includes how to use equipment safely and respond to emergencies.

What types of workplace accidents are covered by the Work at Height Regulations 2005?

The WAHR covers a whole range of accidents that result from working at height. Some of the most common of these are as follows:

  • Falls from height — This could be falling from platforms, scaffolding, ladders or roofs.
  • Falls near ground-level openings — This could be falling through a manhole or other floor opening.
  • Injuries from falling objects — Workers at height are also required to secure tools and equipment to prevent them from falling and injuring those below.

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to workplaces, construction sites and even temporary setups where fall risks are present — additional responsibilities when it comes to working at height are also present in the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, which govern construction-related activities.

Accidents at works claims

If your employer fails to adhere to the rules of the WAHR, they could be liable for any injuries you might have sustained from height in a workplace accident. If you believe this is the case, it’s time to get in touch with Express Solicitors. We’ll help you pursue damages that could cover medical expenses, loss of income and any pain and suffering you’ve had to endure. And to get a better idea of what kind of compensation you could expect, use our helpful compensation calculator.

How Express Solicitors can help you

If you or someone you know has suffered an injury from a work-at-height accident, contact Express Solicitors. Our expert legal team specialises in workplace injury claims and can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Learn more about your rights and how we can assist you today. Call us on 0161 516 6501 or Start your claim online