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Which Heights Require Safety Equipment?

A1 Height Safety Ltd • Sep 15, 2021

You know that safety is imperative when working on a roof, but at what height does safety equipment become necessary? Can you safely work a few feet off the ground without protection or do you need it the second your feet leave the ground? In the UK alone, there are nearly 70,000 falls every year while at work. Not all of these falls are at a height, but it is certainly one of the biggest risk factors in major injuries.

 

It’s essential that anyone working at a height take care to protect themselves so here are some of the safety equipment that you may need.



When to Use Safety Equipment

Any time you are working on a surface that you could fall through, such as glass or another type of material, you are working at a height. This also applies to any time you are working on a roof or ladder, as these are obviously heights. While there’s not actually a specific measurement included in the law, it is determined that you must take precautions when you are working at a height. If there is any danger of falling into a hole or similar in the ground, safety procedures are required.


How to Stay Safe When Working at a Height

It can be difficult to maintain your safety when you are working on a ladder or roof, but there are ways to do it. First, you need to ensure that it’s actually necessary for you to be off the ground. If possible, conduct the task from the ground to avoid any danger of falling. However, if you do need to be working with a distance between you and the ground or the bottom of a tube, tunnel, etc then you should be safe.

 

There are multiple options for height safety, most of which involve stopping or slowing your fall to ensure you survive. These may include safety harnesses, safety lines, walkway lines, and horizontal lines to keep you from falling at any height.

 

It’s also essential that you inspect all safety equipment before using it. It’s useless to you if it’s already worn out or nearly broken. In fact, this can put you in more danger, as you’ll be relying on a faulty piece of equipment. Everything should be repaired when needed, but also carefully inspected before each use. This helps ensure you stay safe.

 

Many jobs require taking risks while working, but this does not mean you are required to take unsafe measures. By using the correct equipment while you work at a height, you can reduce the risk of injury and ensure the job is done well, without fearing for your life.


Get more information on working at a height PPE at A1 Height Safety

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