Essential tips on keeping employees safe while working with heights

One of the most dangerous occupations an individual can have is working wth heights. One simple mistake can spell disaster for an individual. A fall does not even have to occur from a great height as small heights can be just as dangerous.

The HSE reported that nearly a quarter of the injuries reported to them are falling from heights which accounted for 62 fatalities. Construction lead the worst rate with six out of ten fatal flaws occurring on the job site. Overall, 3067 falls accounted for some type of injury.

The HSE regularly includes working at heights within their inspection routines while working in the construction industry. Recently, the HSE inspected the West Midlands, Worcestershire and Warwickshire scaffolding campaign. They wanted to see if the jobs that were involved there had been planned properly and that all equipment was in good working order and being properly maintained. In addition, they were looking closely to ensure that all safety measures had been implemented and were being followed.

While there will always be a danger in working with heights is should not be a prerequisite. With just some simple safety measures and planning, workers can have a much more enjoyable and safe time at work. Take a look at our top ways for workers to stay safe while working at a height.

• It is important to know exactly all the activities that are going to be taken place at a height. In addition, know which employees and contractors will be working at that location.
• Make an initial assessment of the workers before they get to the job location and determine if there is a risk of injury to those:

– who will be working at a height
– who may affect others working at that height

If there is no need for anyone to be at a high job site remove the need to go up there. If work at high locations can be avoided, it is still important to take an overall risk assessment of all daily activities that pose a certain level of risk.- who may affect others working at that height

• Ensuring that all of your workers have received the very best level of occupational health and safety courses will lower the risk greatly. Education can make a notable difference in these scenarios.
• Implement a series of control measures based on job site hierarchy that will minimise the risk within reasonable practice. Openly consult with employees and partners on any proposed control measures. Implement the needed control measures as soon as possible.
• Develop a monitoring and maintenance strategy and implement it. This includes procedures such as making sure the control measures are be maintained and used. Keep a record of all such activities.
• One of the most important procedures is making sure that all employees are aware of the current policy with regard to working at a height.