Work at Height Safety: Protecting Lives Above Ground

Working at height is one of the most hazardous activities in the construction, maintenance, and industrial sectors. Falls from height remain a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities at workplaces across the globe. Therefore, ensuring safety while working at height is not just a legal requirement but a moral responsibility.

What is Work at Height?

According to safety regulations, “work at height” means working in any place where a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury. This includes:

• Working on ladders, scaffolding, or mobile elevated platforms (MEWPs)
• Working near unprotected edges or openings
• Working on fragile surfaces like skylights or roofs
• Climbing structures or equipment

Common Hazards Associated with Work at Height

1. Falls from unprotected edges or platforms
2. Collapse of fragile roofs or structures
3. Falling objects hitting people below
4. Slips or trips while climbing ladders or scaffolds
5. Failure of PPE or fall arrest systems
6. Adverse weather conditions (e.g., strong winds, rain)
7. Inadequate lighting or poor visibility

Work at Height Safety Measures

1. Plan the Work Properly

Conduct a detailed risk assessment

Select the right method and equipment

Avoid working at height if the work can be done from the ground

2. Use the Right Equipment

Scaffolding, ladders, boom lifts, safety nets, and personal fall protection equipment (PPE) must be suitable and certified

Ensure proper inspection and maintenance before use

3. Ensure Edge Protection

Install guardrails, toe boards, and fall arrest systems

Cover or barricade all openings and fragile surfaces

4. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Full body harness with shock-absorbing lanyard or SRL

Properly anchored lifelines or anchor points

Helmets with chin straps

5. Train All Workers

Workers must receive induction and refresher training

Training must include: equipment use, hazard identification, emergency rescue, and safe work practices

6. Supervise and Monitor

Monitor work continuously for unsafe conditions or behaviors

Designate a competent person to oversee activities

7. Emergency Preparedness

Prepare a rescue plan in case of a fall or entrapment

Ensure availability of trained first responders

Conclusion

Work at height can be performed safely if risks are properly assessed and controlled. Creating a safety culture, empowering workers with training, and equipping them with right tools and supervision can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Remember, “Every fall is preventable”—let’s work together to ensure that every worker returns home safely.