The Work at Height Regulations 2005 were introduced to protect anyone involved in tasks where there is a risk of falling and being injured. These regulations apply to all industries and cover any situation where a person could fall a distance that may cause harm — whether that’s from a ladder, scaffold, roof, platform, or even into an opening or pit.
Who the Regulations Apply To
The rules apply to:
- Employers and anyone who manages or controls work at height
- Self-employed individuals who perform such work
- Building owners, contractors, or facility managers who arrange or oversee this type of activity
If you control or plan work at height, you are legally responsible for ensuring it is carried out safely.
What Counts as Work at Height
Work is classed as being “at height” when a person could fall and be injured — even if that distance is small.
This includes:
- Working on roofs, ladders, scaffolds, or platforms
- Working near edges or fragile surfaces
- Working above or below ground level, such as over openings, tanks, or excavations
Core Principles
The regulations are based on three main safety priorities:
-
Avoid work at height whenever possible
– Plan tasks so they can be completed from the ground or at a lower level if it’s reasonably practical. -
Prevent falls when work at height is unavoidable
– Use safe access equipment, guardrails, platforms, or edge protection to remove fall risks. -
Minimise the risk and impact of a fall
– Where falling cannot be prevented, use safety gear such as harnesses, nets, or fall arrest systems to reduce injury.
Employer Responsibilities
Those in charge of work at height must:
- Plan and organise all activities in advance
- Carry out a risk assessment to identify and control hazards
- Ensure workers are competent and trained for the tasks they perform
- Select suitable, well-maintained equipment for access and protection
- Inspect all work areas and equipment regularly and after any adverse weather or change in condition
- Prevent overloading or overreaching while using ladders or platforms
- Take extra care on fragile surfaces by using coverings or warning systems
- Plan for emergencies and rescue in case of a fall or equipment failure
Examples of Safe Work Practices
- Using scaffolds fitted with guardrails and toe boards
- Securing ladders properly and inspecting them before use
- Providing training on how to use harnesses or lift equipment safely
- Ensuring tools and materials are secured to prevent them from falling
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to follow these regulations can result in:
- Improvement or prohibition notices issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Fines or prosecution, depending on the severity of the breach
NOTE: This summary provides a simplified overview of the Work at Height Regulations 2005. For the full legal text and official guidance, visit Legislation.gov.uk