The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to all work where a person could fall and be injured, including guttering, roof maintenance, window cleaning and loft access in care homes.
Why this matters
Falls from height are the most common cause of workplace fatalities in the UK. Care home operators who arrange work at height without proper planning face prosecution.
What to do
- 1Before any work at height, require the contractor to provide a written risk assessment and method statement specific to your site.
- 2Ensure scaffolding is erected by a CITB-trained scaffolder and inspected before use.
- 3Confirm ladder safety inspection is included in your maintenance contract.
- 4Never allow work at height to be improvised including standing on chairs, tables or unguarded platforms.
Primary source
HSE: Working at height -- a brief guide
Get the full picture every morning.
Briefing is updated daily. Join early access to unlock every article.