1. Avoid
Where reasonably practicable, avoid work at height altogether. Can the task be done from the ground? Can something be designed, assembled, or cleaned without going up?
Safety basics for working at height
A concise orientation to the common hierarchy of controls. This page is general information — not a risk assessment and not a substitute for official guidance.
Disclaimer
This website provides general information only and does not constitute professional advice, risk assessment,
or a recommendation of any particular equipment or supplier. Working at height is regulated under the Work at
Height Regulations 2005. Always consult the latest official Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance, a
competent person, and appropriately qualified suppliers or training providers before undertaking any work.
Hierarchy of controls (plain language)
HSE materials describe a simple order of preference for managing work at height. In everyday terms:
2. Prevent
If work at height cannot be avoided, prevent falls. That often means using an existing safe place of work or selecting suitable equipment that provides a secure working platform and edge protection where required.
3. Mitigate
Where the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated, minimise the distance and consequences of a fall (for example through collective measures first, then personal systems where appropriate), and plan rescue and emergency arrangements.
Official source
Always check the latest HSE pages on working at height and related topics at
hse.gov.uk/work-at-height.
Regulations and approved codes of practice can change; use the live official material, not this summary alone.
Training and competent persons
Equipment and methods only help when people know how to plan the work, select suitable kit, use it correctly, and stop when conditions change. A competent person has the combination of training, knowledge, experience, and other qualities needed for the task. If you are unsure, involve someone who is.
- Operators of powered access (MEWPs) typically need recognised training and familiarisation on the specific machine type.
- Scaffolding and complex systems require appropriately trained erectors and competent supervision.
- Even “simple” ladder work needs planning: right ladder, right angle, secure footing, three points of contact where applicable, and knowing when a ladder is not enough.
Inspection and maintenance (including LOLER)
Access equipment should be suitable for the task, maintained, and inspected. For lifting equipment and some related accessories, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) set requirements for thorough examination and safe use. Other equipment still needs pre-use checks and planned inspection under wider health and safety duties. Follow manufacturer instructions and competent inspection regimes — do not rely on a website overview.
What to do next
Read the generic equipment types overview, then describe your needs if you want help being pointed toward professional suppliers or trainers.