Whether it's a stepladder for a quick fix or a scaffold three storeys up, working at height carries a risk that's easy to underestimate — right up until something slips. This guide covers the hierarchy the law expects, where falls actually happen, and how to choose equipment that keeps you grounded in every sense.
Why a short fall can be a serious one
People picture falls from great heights, but many of the worst injuries come from low falls — off a ladder, a platform or through a fragile roof. Falls from height are consistently among the leading causes of workplace fatalities in Ireland.
The reassuring part is that nearly all of them trace back to decisions made before anyone left the ground.
Where falls actually happen
Most incidents involve a handful of familiar situations. Tap each one to see what to watch for.
Quick jobs, big risk
Most fall incidents involve ladders. Use them only for low-risk, short-duration work, footed and secured.
The hierarchy: avoid, prevent, minimise
Irish law expects you to work through three levels in order. Don't jump to a harness when you could have stayed on the ground.
Avoid
Do the work from the ground if you possibly can — the only fall you can't have is the one you avoid.
Prevent
Use a safe platform, guardrails or a secured ladder so a fall can't happen in the first place.
Minimise
Where a fall risk remains, cut the distance and consequences with nets, airbags or fall-arrest.
If you can do the job from the ground, do it from the ground. The safest height is no height.
Doing it safely on site
Once you've decided height is unavoidable, four steps keep it controlled:
Plan and assess
Risk-assess the task, the height and the conditions. Can it be done from the ground instead?
Pick the right equipment
Match the kit to the job — tower, MEWP, podium or a secured ladder for short, light work.
Inspect before use
Check ladders, platforms and harnesses every time. Damaged equipment is taken out of use.
Supervise and react to weather
Competent supervision throughout, and stop work in high wind, rain or ice.
What the HSA expects
Under Part 4 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, work at height must be properly planned, supervised and carried out safely. The duties follow a clear order:
- Avoid work at height where it's reasonably practicable
- Use the right equipment and competent people
- Inspect access equipment before use
- Plan for emergencies and rescue