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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Working Safely at Height: Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff at {{org_field_name}} work safely when performing tasks at height, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Falls from height are one of the leading causes of workplace accidents, and this policy sets out clear guidelines to prevent such incidents. This policy establishes procedures to comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and CIW regulatory standards. It outlines preventive measures, staff responsibilities, and control measures to mitigate the hazards associated with working at height.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, contractors, and external professionals conducting work at height within {{org_field_name}}. It covers:

• Identification and assessment of work at height tasks.
• Safe use of equipment such as ladders, scaffolding, and elevated platforms.
• Staff training and competency requirements.
• Emergency procedures and risk mitigation strategies.
• Regular safety checks and compliance monitoring.

3. Definition of Working at Height

Work at height includes any task where an individual is at risk of falling from a height liable to cause personal injury. This includes but is not limited to:

• Using ladders, scaffolding, or elevated platforms.
• Working on rooftops or raised surfaces.
• Accessing high shelves or storage areas.
• Performing maintenance on ceilings, lighting fixtures, or exterior buildings.
• Any work undertaken near open edges, unprotected drops, or within confined spaces with elevated risks.

4. Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification

• Pre-Task Risk Assessments:
  • All work at height must be assessed to determine risks before commencing.
  • A risk assessment checklist must be completed, considering surface stability, weather conditions, and necessary safety measures.
  • Staff must ensure work at height is necessary and seek alternative solutions where possible.
• Hierarchy of Control Measures:
  • Eliminate the need to work at height if possible by using long-handled tools or remote technology.
  • Prevent falls by using appropriate fall prevention equipment such as handrails, harnesses, or safety nets.
  • Minimise injury risks by ensuring padded flooring, secured ladders, and controlled descent mechanisms are in place.
  • Regular review of risk assessment controls to ensure ongoing safety improvements.

5. Equipment and Safe Use

• Ladders and Stepladders:
  • Only approved ladders in good condition must be used.
  • Ladders must be secured and positioned on stable ground, avoiding slip hazards.
  • A second person must be present to steady the ladder when necessary.
  • Ladders must not be used as a primary work platform for extended tasks.
• Scaffolding and Elevated Platforms:
  • Must be assembled by trained and competent individuals.
  • Regular inspections must be conducted to ensure stability and compliance with safety standards.
  • Only authorised personnel are permitted to use scaffolding or powered access platforms.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Staff working at height must use harnesses, helmets, and non-slip footwear where required.
  • PPE must be inspected before use and replaced if damaged.
  • Fall arrest systems and anchor points must be checked and certified before use.

6. Staff Training and Competency

• Mandatory Training:
  • All employees required to work at height must complete certified training in ladder safety, fall prevention, and equipment use.
  • Additional refresher training will be provided when new equipment or updated regulations are introduced.
• Competency Assessment:
  • Staff must demonstrate knowledge and safe handling of equipment before undertaking any work at height.
  • Supervisors must verify competency through regular observations and formal competency assessments.
  • Refresher training is conducted annually or following any incident involving work at height.

7. Safe Systems of Work

• Work Permit System:
  • Any non-routine work at height requires a permit issued by the Health and Safety Lead.
  • Work permit applications must include risk assessments, method statements, and equipment checklists.
• Supervision:
  • High-risk work at height tasks require supervision by a competent person.
  • Supervisors ensure adherence to safety protocols and monitor working conditions.
• Environmental Considerations:
  • Work at height must not be conducted during adverse weather conditions such as high winds, rain, or ice.
  • Poor visibility conditions, such as low lighting, must be assessed, and additional safety lighting provided if needed.

8. Incident Response and Emergency Procedures

• Emergency Rescue Plans:
  • A rescue plan must be in place before any work at height is carried out.
  • Staff must be aware of emergency contact points and first-aid procedures.
  • Emergency response teams must be trained in the safe recovery of individuals involved in height-related incidents.
• Incident Reporting:
  • Any near-miss or fall-related incident must be reported to the Health and Safety Lead immediately.
  • A full investigation will be conducted to prevent recurrence, and necessary corrective actions will be implemented.
  • Findings from investigations will be shared with staff as part of learning and development initiatives.

9. Compliance and Monitoring

• Regular Audits:
  • Monthly safety inspections of all work at height equipment and practices.
  • Compliance checks during internal and CIW inspections to ensure adherence to best practices.
  • Health and safety officers must document and act upon audit findings.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Incident reviews and staff feedback are used to update procedures and training requirements.
  • Recommendations from CIW inspections are implemented to enhance safety standards.
  • Ongoing assessments ensure that new technology and best practices are incorporated into work at height policies.

10. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CHW35 – Risk Assessment and Management Policy
• CHW37 – Workplace Equipment and Maintenance Policy
• CHW39 – Emergency Planning and Incident Response Policy
• CHW41 – Manual Handling and Safe Lifting Techniques Policy

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, regulatory requirements, or organisational needs. Any updates will be communicated to all staff through training sessions and policy briefings to ensure compliance and best practice adherence.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.