Effective Working at Height Solutions for Construction

Statistics on UK Accidents Related to Working at Height

Working at height remains a significant concern in the UK construction industry. Here are some key statistics that highlight the risks associated with this activity:

• In 2020/2021, falls from height accounted for approximately 46% of all fatal injuries in the workplace, making it the leading cause of workplace fatalities.

• According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there were 4,000 reported injuries from falls from height in the same period.

• Over the last decade, an average of 30 workers have died each year due to falls from height.

• In 2019/2020, the HSE reported that falls from height led to 1,000 non-fatal injuries requiring over seven days off work.

• Construction workers are 3 times more likely to suffer a fall from height than workers in other industries.

These statistics underline the importance of implementing effective safety measures when working at height to protect workers and comply with safety regulations.

Understanding Height Safety Solutions in Construction

Height safety solutions are designed to minimise risks associated with working at elevated levels. These solutions encompass equipment, procedures, and training that collectively minimise the risk of falls and injuries.

Some common height safety measures include:

• Guardrails and barriers: Physical barriers that prevent falls from edges.

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Harnesses, lanyards, and helmets designed for fall protection.

• Scaffolding and platforms: Stable working surfaces that provide safe access to heights.

• Fall arrest systems: Equipment that stops a fall in progress, minimising injury.

  
  

Implementing these solutions requires a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and select the most appropriate controls. For example, a site with multiple roof access points may benefit from the combination of permanent guardrails and personal fall arrest systems.

Aerial view of a warehouse under construction, showcasing advanced safety systems for working at height, with workers installing roof panels as the sun sets in the background.

Choosing the Right Height Safety Solutions

Selecting the right height safety solutions depends on several factors:

1. Type of work: Different tasks require different safety measures. For instance, roofing work may need harnesses and anchor points, while window installation might rely on mobile scaffolds.

2. Height and location: The height at which work is performed influences the type of fall protection needed. Higher elevations often require more robust systems.

3. Duration of work: Temporary tasks might use portable equipment, whereas long-term projects benefit from fixed safety installations.

4. Worker training and competence: Solutions should align with the skill level of workers to ensure proper use.

   
   

A practical example is utilising mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) for short-term tasks at moderate heights. These platforms provide stability and mobility, reducing the risk of falls compared to ladders.

Employers should also consider the maintenance and inspection requirements of safety equipment. Regular checks ensure that all components function correctly and comply with safety standards.

A worker installs edge protection on the eaves of a warehouse unit, using a cherry picker for elevated access.

Implementing Working at Height Solutions

To effectively implement working at height solutions, follow these steps:

• Conduct a risk assessment: Identify hazards and evaluate risks associated with working at height.

• Develop a safety plan: Outline the control measures, equipment, and procedures to be used.

• Provide training: Ensure all workers understand how to use safety equipment and follow protocols.

• Install and maintain equipment: Set up guardrails, scaffolds, and anchor points as needed, and perform regular inspections.

• Monitor and review: Continuously assess the effectiveness of safety measures and make improvements.

  
  

For example, a construction company might schedule weekly safety briefings to reinforce the correct use of fall protection gear and update workers on any changes in procedures.

An inspector on site is evaluating access and safety systems for working at height during the construction of a new warehouse unit.

Best Practices for Height Safety on Construction Sites

Adopting best practices enhances the effectiveness of height safety solutions:

• Use the hierarchy of controls: Prioritise elimination of hazards, then substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and finally PPE.

• Plan work carefully: Avoid working at height where possible by using extendable tools or prefabricated components.

• Maintain clear communication: Use radios or signals to coordinate tasks and alert workers to hazards.

• Keep work areas tidy: Remove debris and obstacles that could cause trips or falls.

• Encourage reporting: Create a culture where workers report unsafe conditions without fear of reprisal.

  
  

By following these practices, construction sites can significantly reduce the risk of falls and related injuries.

Enhancing Safety Culture Through Training and Awareness

Training is a cornerstone of effective height safety. Workers must be competent in recognising hazards and using safety equipment correctly. Training programmes should cover:

• Proper use of harnesses and fall arrest systems.

• Safe erection and dismantling of scaffolding.

• Emergency procedures in case of a fall.

• Legal responsibilities and site-specific rules.

  
  

Regular refresher courses help maintain awareness and adapt to new safety technologies or regulations. Additionally, visual aids such as posters and toolbox talks reinforce key messages.

Creating a safety-first culture encourages everyone on site to prioritise height safety and look out for one another.

By integrating comprehensive height safety solutions, construction projects can protect workers, comply with regulations, and improve overall site efficiency. Prioritising safety not only saves lives but also enhances productivity and reputation in the industry.