The precarious nature of working at heights
Working at height could be any activity that involves a risk of falling from one level to a lower level. This includes tasks performed on ladders, scaffolding, roofs and even elevated platforms. Working at height remains one of the most hazardous activities across various industries, where even a simple slip or a slight gust of wind has the potential to be catastrophic.
Key highlights
- Falls from height continue to be a leading cause of workplace deaths in Great Britain, with 50 tragic fatalities reported in the 2023/2024 period1.
- Workplace injuries and illnesses cost the UK economy a staggering £20.7 billion in 2021/2022, with falls from height accounting for a significant portion3.
- Such incidents harm businesses' reputations in addition to direct expenses, which could result in lost business and reduced trust among customers.
- Preventing falls from heights requires comprehensive safety training, advanced equipment and regular audits to minimise risks.
The risks associated with elevated work are significant, whether on construction sites, warehouses or during maintenance tasks. Every year, a concerning number of accidents, many of which result in severe injuries or fatalities, occur due to height-related hazards. In the 2023/2024 period, 50 workers tragically lost their lives due to falls from height in Great Britain. This figure marks a 22% increase from the previous year, which recorded 41 fatalities1.
Various factors exacerbate the inherent dangers, including human error, environmental conditions and inadequate safety measures. Understanding these dangers and implementing robust safety measures is not just a legal obligation for employers but a moral imperative.
Most common risks while working at heights
- Falls: One of the major causes of severe injuries and fatalities - falls often occur due to loss of balance, slipping, or the failure of a structural component, such as a scaffold or ladder.
- Falling objects: Tools, equipment or debris can fall from heights, posing severe risks to workers below. Even a small object can cause significant injury when dropped from a height.
- Structural failures: Inadequate load-bearing capacity can lead to the collapse of scaffolds, ladders, or platforms, putting workers at immediate risk.
- Weather conditions: High winds, rain, ice or extreme temperatures can reduce visibility, create slippery surfaces, and increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Human error: Mistakes or negligence, often resulting from fatigue, distraction or lack of focus, contribute to many height-related accidents.
- Inadequate safety measures: The absence or failure of proper fall protection systems, such as harnesses and guardrails, can lead to preventable accidents.
What is the human cost?
The human cost of accidents at height is staggering. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height continue to be the leading cause of fatal injuries in the workplace, accounting for 36% of all worker deaths in the latest report1. The data also indicates that the number of fatalities from falls has risen significantly compared to the five-year average of 37 deaths, underscoring a concerning upward trend in such incidents.
Real-life examples bring statistics into stark reality
During routine maintenance on September 20, 2022, an employee at a logistics terminal in Southampton fell through an open hole in the driver's cabin of a straddle carrier. He suffered ‘life-changing’ injuries from the accident, including fractures to his back, pelvis and cranium. The hole was left by contractors who were replacing a glass floor, and the worker was unaware of it.
The HSE inquiry found that the company did not conduct a risk assessment or follow its own policy concerning permits for working at heights. It also did not have a system in place to coordinate normal maintenance with glass floor replacements. As a result, the company was fined £1 million2. Such incidents are devastating for families and highlight the pressing need for strict adherence to safety protocols.
Beyond the immediate physical injuries, the long-term health implications for those who survive falls can be severe. Injuries such as fractures, concussions, spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries often result in permanent disability, chronic pain and a significantly reduced quality of life. The psychological impact on victims and their families can be equally severe, leading to anxiety, depression and financial strain.
How is the economy impacted?
The economic repercussions of height-related accidents have the potential to be extensive for organisations. Businesses are often met with a multitude of costs, including medical expenses for injured workers, compensation claims, lost productivity due to workforce disruption and legal fees. In Great Britain alone, the total cost of workplace injuries and ill health was £20.7 billion in 2021/2022, with a significant portion attributed to falls from height3.
The losses incurred may not be limited to the financial side of an organisation. In addition to direct costs, companies may suffer reputational damage, leading to lost contracts and diminished client trust. The legal and financial fallout from such severe incidents can cripple businesses, highlighting the importance of investing in robust safety protocols.
The legal landscape
The UK has stringent laws for governing work at height, with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 serving as the primary legislative framework4. These regulations require employers to ensure that work at height is properly planned, supervised and carried out by competent individuals.
In recent years, the UK has witnessed an uptick in prosecutions related to height-related safety violations. For instance, in 2023, a roofing company in Newcastle was prosecuted after failing to provide adequate fall protection for its workers, resulting in a total fine of £881,000. This case arose from two separate incidents where workers sustained serious injuries after falling from a height. The company was found guilty of breaching safety regulations, specifically the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Work at Height Regulations 20055.
Such cases highlight the severe consequences of inadequate safety measures in the workplace, the legal risks of non-compliance and the importance of adhering to safety standards. The rise in prosecutions for safety breaches also indicates that the authorities are taking these regulations seriously.
The balancing act: Risk mitigation and management strategies
Working at height poses significant risks that must be effectively managed to ensure the safety of workers. Mitigating these risks requires a comprehensive approach that includes both proactive planning and continuous monitoring. Key strategies include:
- Risk assessment and safety training: It is crucial to conduct thorough risk assessments before any work begins. Workers should also receive comprehensive training that equips them with the knowledge and skills to perform their tasks safely.
- Implementation of safety gear and equipment: Employers must ensure workers have access to and use appropriate safety gear, such as harnesses, helmets and guardrails. Regular checks and maintenance of this equipment are essential to ensure its effectiveness.
- Regular safety audits and inspections: Regular safety audits and inspections help identify potential hazards before accidents occur. These audits should be documented, and corrective actions should immediately follow.
- Role of technology: Advances in technology, such as drones for site inspections and wearable safety devices, can significantly enhance safety measures. These tools can help identify real-time risks and alert workers to potential dangers.
The role of employers and employees
To create a safe working environment, employers must foster a safety culture within the organisation. This entails providing ongoing training, encouraging open communication about safety concerns, and rigorously enforcing safety protocols. Additionally, investing in state-of-the-art safety equipment, and conducting regular audits can significantly mitigate the risks associated with working at height.
It is also important to understand that creating a safe working environment is a shared responsibility between employers and employees. Employees must prioritise their own safety and that of their colleagues. This means adhering to safety guidelines, using the provided protective equipment and being vigilant about potential hazards. Empowering workers to speak up about safety concerns without fear of retribution is key to preventing accidents.
RiskTalk - the voice-driven risk assessment app
Gallagher has partnered with RiskTalk, a voice-powered workplace health and safety app that modernises risk assessments by replacing traditional tick-box methods with an efficient, digital solution. The app allows workers to conduct assessments, report incidents and observe safety practices using their voices, significantly reducing the time required and capturing richer data.
Leveraging RiskTalk enables employers to benefit from cost savings, enhanced legal defensibility and comprehensive safety insights. With multi-language support, employees find it more engaging and inclusive. By streamlining risk management, RiskTalk helps create safer workplaces, especially in high-risk environments like working at height.
Lower your health and safety risk with Gallagher
Gallagher provides a range of tailored risk management services and solutions. For organisations seeking to enhance their safety protocols, one such service is an extensive online risk management portal that includes specialised courses on working at height. By prioritising safety and leveraging innovative technologies, businesses can protect their most valuable asset — their employees — while avoiding legal repercussions and fostering a safer work environment.
To get in touch with our friendly risk management team about any of the content in this article, or how we can help you with your health and safety requirements, please call 0800 138 7538.
