Working at height
Work at height is work where a fall could cause personal injury if measures are not taken.
In plain English
Working at height is not only roof work. It includes situations where someone could fall and be injured—from ladders, fragile surfaces, openings and elevated platforms.
Hierarchy of control
Avoid work at height where possible, then prevent falls (suitable platforms, edge protection), then minimise distance and consequences of a fall. Ladders are for low-risk, short-duration work when appropriate.
Planning
Before starting: is the work necessary, who is competent, what access is safest, and what weather or traffic could change the risk?
Related training
See working at height courses for planning and fall-prevention awareness.
Reviewed by the Health Safety Courses editorial team. Independent workplace training — see FAQs.