Compliance hub / Sector guide
Working at height — WAHR 2005 explained
Falls from height remain the single biggest cause of workplace fatalities in the UK. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to any work where a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury — ladders, scaffolds, MEWPs, roofs, even loading docks.
What the law says
WAHR 2005 imposes a clear hierarchy of control: avoid working at height where you can; if not, use work equipment that prevents falls (platforms, guard rails); if not, use equipment that minimises distance and consequences (nets, airbags); and only last, personal fall protection (harnesses and lanyards). All height work must be planned, supervised and carried out by competent people, with rescue planned before work starts.
Recommended starter spec
- Hierarchy-of-control assessment before each job (don't default to harness-and-lanyard).
- Harnesses inspected: pre-use by user, monthly recorded check, 6-monthly thorough examination by competent person.
- Lanyards and energy absorbers with traceability to manufacturer and inspection history.
- Anchor point survey and rated to EN 795.
- Rescue plan documented — not 'call the fire brigade'.
- Ladder inspections per the LA scheme + pre-use checks recorded.
Common gaps we find
- Suspension trauma rescue plan missing or untested.
- Harnesses past their 6-monthly inspection date still on site.
- Anchor points used that have no rated certificate.
- Single-person height work with no buddy / rescue capability.
- MEWP operators without IPAF / PASMA cards.
This guide is for general information. A site-specific risk assessment by a competent person is required under the relevant regulations.