Recent interventions by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) have brought into focus the need for better understanding of the rules and regulations surrounding Working from Heights. Operators must only commence work once a project has been suitably planned and is being closely managed by an Authorised Person. At the same time, all equipment to be used as part of the work must be examined by an Authorised Person to ensure that it meets specifications. Neglect of these responsibilities puts workers and members of the public at risk, as well as the reputations of the businesses concerned.
Two recent examples of such neglect have seen the companies responsible for the work fined. One, a chemical company in the UK, was fined after an employee fell from a ladder whilst working. The employee suffered a serious injury in the fall and it was ruled by the HSE that the work had not been properly managed, as the ladder that failed and caused the incident should have been inspected before the work began. The other, a construction company, was also fined for ignoring regulations on Working from Heights at a property the company was actively working on. Safety measures to protect workers from unprotected edges and collapsing floors were not taken, despite a risk assessment finding that these were necessary for work to commence. The HSE found that there was a significant risk of ‘fatal injury’ resulting from a fall and issued a significant fine.
The HSE state that falls from height are one of the most common causes of occupational injury in the UK. Risks associated with Working from Heights are well known, even to the general public, and so should be taken seriously by companies carrying out the work. Where proper planning, management and equipment checks are overlooked, there is a high chance of serious injury resulting from a fall or a malfunctioning piece of equipment. Companies are responsible for ensuring that their workers are as safe as they can possibly be in elevated working environments, and that work from height is only carried out when absolutely necessary.
Having an Authorised Person onsite is an essential part of any projects that involved Working from Height. An Authorised Person is someone fully prepared to permit, monitor and control all such operations, while making sure that all work is carried out in a manner that keeps workers safe. We can provide a
CPD-certified Authorised Person Working at Height course, which meets a wide range of regulations including MoD JSP 375 Chapter 7 rules and regulations. This covers all relevant Health & Safety measures and is a comprehensive package for helping site staff get the skills they need to manage all Working from Heights operations.
