According to the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (UK), working at height is defined as:

“Work in any place, including a place above, at or below ground level; obtaining access to or egress from such place while at work, except by a staircase in a permanent workplace; where, if measures required by these Regulations were not taken, a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury.”

In simple terms, if there is any risk of a fall that could cause injury, the task is considered working at height, and appropriate precautions must be taken.

When should height safety equipment be used?

You must follow the hierarchy of safety control when planning or carrying out any work at height:

AVOID working at height wherever possible

Use alternative methods (e.g. long-handled tools from the ground).

PREVENT falls where work at height cannot be avoided

Carry out work from a safe platform or use fall prevention systems.

MINIMISE the distance and consequences of a fall

Where fall risk cannot be eliminated, use fall arrest systems such as harnesses, energy-absorbing lanyards, and anchor devices.

Why is correct equipment use critical?

Using fall protection equipment improperly can be fatal.

You must always refer to the manufacturer's user instructions.

You must also ensure you are properly trained in the correct selection, fitting, and use of the equipment.

Taking shortcuts or guessing how to use height safety gear places your life—and the lives of others—at serious risk.

Key points:

Working at height includes any location where a fall risk exists, not just elevated areas.

Follow the safety hierarchy: AVOID → PREVENT → MINIMISE.

Use the right fall protection equipment where required.

Always follow manufacturer instructions.

Ensure training in correct equipment use is in place.

If you need further support, please contact our Technical Support Team using the email: technical@jspsafety.com or contact us via our WhatsApp.