Working at height

On 6 April, that new regulations come into force on height, the Health and Safety Commission has said. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 applies to anyone who works at a height, where there is a risk of a fall that could cause personal injury. A duty is now placed on employers, the self-employed and any person that controls the work of others to the extent of their control. The regulations demand that all work at height is properly planned, those involved in this type of work are competent, risks are assessed and equipment is inspected and maintained.

In 2003-4 falls from heights accounted for 67 fatalities and 4000 injuries.