Working at height

The HSE has reviewed its guidance on working at height. Falls from height were responsible for 13% of major accidents at work, according to HSE statistics for 2012-13.

Health and safety minister Mike Penning said: “As a former fireman, I know that the 10 million people who are working at height in this country face risks in their job. But I’m also clear that managing these risks can be done sensibly, by giving simple and clear advice.”

Key changes to the working at height guidance include: simple advice about do’s and don’ts to ensure people are clear on legal requirements, tackling health and safety myths such as when ladders can be used, offering targeted advice to different sectors and helping workers to be clear about their own responsibility to work safely.

www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/wait/index.htm