Falls from height remain a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities. In Great Britain, 50 workers lost their lives due to falls from height during 2023/24 – a significant increase from 41 in the previous year, and 35% above the five-year average. These figures highlight the importance of careful planning and strict adherence to the hierarchy of control measures when working at height.

Hierarchy of Control Measures

1. Avoid Work at Height

The most effective way to protect operatives is to eliminate the need to work at height entirely. Consider alternative methods that allow tasks to be carried out safely from ground level, such as:

Using extendable tools

Lowering fixtures to the ground for maintenance or assembly

Installing cables or components before lifting structures into place

Pre-assembling edge protection at ground level

2. Prevent Falls

If work at height is unavoidable, the next step is to implement measures to prevent a fall from occurring:

Use a safe existing place of work, such as a non-fragile roof fitted with permanent edge protection.

Employ collective protection measures such as:

Scaffolding

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs)

Use Personal Fall Protection Equipment (PFPE) in a restraint system, which physically prevents the user from reaching a fall hazard.
 

3. Minimise the Consequences of a Fall

When it is not possible to eliminate or prevent the fall risk, measures must be taken to minimise the impact should a fall occur:

Install safety nets or soft landing systems close to the working level to reduce injury.

When using fall arrest systems, always position the anchor point as high as possible to reduce fall factor and limit fall distance.

Following the hierarchy of controls is essential to manage risk effectively. Always seek to avoid working at height where possible. If not, take all steps to prevent or minimise fall risks using appropriate equipment and procedures.

Summary:

Falls from height continue to cause significant fatalities in the workplace.

Control measures must follow a clear hierarchy: Avoid, Prevent, Minimise.

Avoid working at height by completing tasks from ground level when possible.

If unavoidable, prevent falls using collective and personal protection systems.

Where fall risks remain, minimise the consequences with fall arrest and soft landing systems.

If you need further support, please contact our Technical Support Team using the email: technical@jspsafety.com or contact us via WhatsApp.