Expert Advice on Preventing Falls and Accidents
Working at height is one of the most common and riskiest activities in construction, maintenance, and industrial work. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the UK. That’s why working at height safety tips can be lifesaving.
Our 80+ years of combined industry experience at FESS Hire means we’ve seen every scenario, from perfectly managed projects to avoidable close calls. In this guide, we share 10 expert tips to help you stay safe, stay compliant, and work confidently at height.
Understanding the Risks of Working at Height
Working at height covers any situation where a person could fall a distance that is likely to cause injury. This includes operating mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), scaffolds, ladders, or working on fragile roofs.
Common hazards include:
- Using unstable or poorly maintained equipment.
- Working in adverse weather.
- Failing to secure tools or materials.
- Inadequate operator training.
You can take proactive steps to avoid incidents by identifying these risks early.
10 Expert Safety Tips
1. Always Conduct a Risk Assessment
Identify potential hazards and decide on control measures before work begins. This is not just good practice, it’s a legal requirement under the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
2. Choose the Right Equipment for the Job
Different tasks require different access solutions, from mobile access towers to powered boom lifts. Selecting the wrong equipment increases risk.
3. Inspect Equipment Before Use
Check for visible damage, loose components, and ensure safety devices function. At FESS Hire, every hire item undergoes a full pre-delivery inspection.
4. Ensure Operators Are Fully Trained and Certified
For MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms), this means IPAF certification; for mobile towers, PASMA. Untrained operators are a danger to themselves and others.
5. Use Fall Protection Equipment Correctly
Harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points are only effective when worn and attached correctly. Follow manufacturer guidance.
6. Maintain Three Points of Contact
When climbing ladders or accessing platforms, keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand in contact at all times.
7. Monitor Weather Conditions Closely
High winds, rain, and icy surfaces increase the risk of accidents. If conditions are unsafe, stop work immediately.
8. Never Exceed Platform Load Limits
Every MEWP and tower has a safe working load. Overloading can cause instability and collapse.
9. Keep Work Areas Tidy
Loose tools, cables, and materials can create trip hazards. A tidy platform is a safe platform.
10. Have an Emergency Rescue Plan
If a worker becomes stranded at height, you must have a safe, rehearsed plan to bring them down quickly.
Legal Compliance: Working at Height Regulations
The Working at Height Regulations 2005 require employers to:
- Avoid working at height where possible.
- Use the right equipment where work at height is unavoidable.
- Plan and supervise all work at height activities.
- Ensure workers are competent and trained.
Full guidance is available on the HSE Working at Height website.
Case Study: How FESS Hire Prevented an On-Site Fall
On a recent industrial maintenance project, a client ordered a boom lift for roof access. Our pre-hire inspection identified worn tyres that could have compromised stability on the uneven surface. By replacing the tyres before delivery and providing on-site MEWP safety refresher training, we eliminated the risk of a potential accident.
FAQ
What counts as working at height?
Any work where a fall could cause injury — even if it’s just one step above ground level.
Do I always need a harness in a MEWP?
Yes, when required by manufacturer guidance and site rules. Most boom lifts require harness use at all times.
How often should equipment be inspected?
Before each use, plus regular inspections by a competent person (every 6 months for MEWPs under LOLER).
Can you work at height in bad weather?
Not if it compromises safety. High winds, heavy rain, and icy conditions can make work unsafe.
Conclusion
Working at height demands planning, the right equipment, and strict adherence to safety practices. By following these expert safety tips, you can dramatically reduce the risk of falls and injuries on site.
At FESS Hire, we supply fully compliant, rigorously inspected access equipment, backed by decades of experience in keeping operators safe.
Contact us today to arrange safe, inspection-ready access equipment for your next job.
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Working at Height Safety Checklist
Stay safe and compliant with these essential checks before and during any height work.
1. Pre-Work Planning
- Conduct a full risk assessment for the task.
- Identify potential hazards (weather, access, obstructions).
- Choose the correct access equipment for the job.
- Ensure a competent person is supervising the work.
2. Equipment Checks
- Inspect all equipment before use for signs of damage or wear.
- Verify safety devices and controls are working.
- Confirm load limits and ensure they will not be exceeded.
- Ensure guardrails, toe boards, and barriers are secure.
3. Operator Readiness
- Confirm all operators are trained and certified (IPAF, PASMA, etc.).
- Provide appropriate PPE (harness, helmet, gloves, safety boots).
- Check operators understand safe operating procedures.
4. Site Safety
- Secure work area below to prevent access by unauthorised personnel.
- Keep platform or work area tidy and free from loose items.
- Monitor weather conditions throughout the shift.
- Ensure clear communication between ground crew and operators.
5. Emergency Preparedness
- Have a written rescue plan in place.
- Ensure first aiders are available on site.
- Test and practise emergency procedures.
Tip: At FESS Hire, every piece of access equipment undergoes a comprehensive inspection before delivery, ensuring you start your project with complete confidence in its safety.