Working at height can be a risky business, as a horticultural nursery worker found out at his expense when he fell through the glass roof of a greenhouse while carrying out maintenance works. In this case, the employer was found to be at fault for not providing the right training or for reducing the risks their workers were exposed to.
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 are designed, however, to prevent this type of accident from occurring. They apply to types of work at height where there is a real risk of fall, and where a fall is liable to cause injury.
The regulations stipulate that all risks should be correctly assessed, as this then allows the work to be planned and organised in as safe a way as possible using the most appropriate equipment. It also requires all those working at height to receive the relevant health and safety training, and all equipment to be properly maintained and kept in good working order.
Failure to do so can result in terrible injuries that could cost both employee and employer dearly. Falling from height poses a significant risk to life and limb, while a company that is prosecuted for health and safety breaches is likely to face substantial fines.