When we think of “working at heights,” images of construction workers balancing on scaffolding or roofers repairing shingles often come to mind. But the reality is that working at height risks aren’t confined to manual labor or construction sites—they can occur in any workplace, even the office.

 

Take John as an example. He is a letting agent, who’s worked in his current company and office for over 7 years. He knows the space really well. On a typical day, John needed to retrieve a file from the top shelf behind his desk. Unfortunately, the office didn’t have a step ladder available, and he decided to stand on a swivel chair instead.

 

As he reached up, the chair shifted beneath him. In an instant, he lost balance, fell to the floor, and hit his arm against the sharp edge of a desk. The result? A painful fracture that required weeks of recovery, leaving him unable to work and significantly disrupting the team’s daily operations.

 

The Bigger Picture: Falls from Height in the UK

 

John’s story isn’t unique. The statistics about falls from height in the UK align with recent data published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). For the 2023/24 reporting period:

• Fatalities: There were 50 worker deaths caused by falls from height, making it a significant cause of workplace fatalities.
• Proportion of Total Fatalities: These incidents represented 36% of all workplace deaths.
• Long-Term Trend: This marks an increase compared to the previous five-year average of 37 fatalities annually.

The HSE emphasises the importance of preventive measures to address this ongoing issue, particularly in high-risk industries like construction and maintenance. These figures underline the critical need for adherence to safety standards and protocols to reduce such incidents. For more details, you can visit the official HSE statistics page.

Why These Incidents Happen

There are several factors that contribute massively to the increasing number of falls from heights and those ending in fatalities. Here’s a short overview:

 

• Using Improper Equipment – Makeshift solutions like chairs, desks, or boxes increase the risk of falls.
• Lack of Training – Employees often aren’t aware of the risks or the proper techniques for working at height.
• Overlooking Routine Tasks – Everyday activities like reaching for high shelves or changing a lightbulb are underestimated in terms of risk.

 

How Employers Can Prevent Falls

 

Employers have a legal duty under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 to ensure all work involving height is planned, supervised, and performed safely. Here’s how:

 

• Provide Proper Equipment – Invest in tools like stable step ladders and platforms designed for height access. Also, regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure its safety.
• Conduct Risk Assessments – Identify tasks that involve working at height, even in non-conventional settings like offices or retail spaces. Develop procedures to minimise risks, such as designating safe tools or reducing reliance on high storage spaces.
• Training and Awareness – Offer practical training on working safely at height. Encourage employees to report hazards, such as faulty equipment or unsafe practices.
• Create a Safety Culture – Lead by example and enforce strict safety policies. Make sure you regularly communicate the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.

 

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Ignoring height-related risks can lead to an array of complications and struggles for your business.

 

• Employee Harm – Injuries disrupt lives and impact morale.
• Financial Losses – Sick pay, legal claims, and fines for non-compliance add up quickly.
• Reputational Damage – Incidents tarnish a company’s image, making it harder to attract employees and clients.

 

What We Learned from John’s Incident

John’s fall could have been prevented with something as simple as a sturdy step ladder. It’s a reminder that height-related risks exist everywhere and can escalate from minor oversights.

 

By implementing the right safety measures and fostering a culture of compliance, employers can protect their staff and avoid the devastating consequences of workplace falls.

 

The Takeaway

 

Falls from height remain one of the most preventable causes of workplace injuries and fatalities in the UK. The risks are real—but so are the solutions.

 

At Custom H&S Solutions, we’re here to help you identify and mitigate risks in your workplace. From bespoke training to tailored safety documentation, we ensure your business stays compliant while prioritising employee wellbeing.

 

Don’t let preventable incidents become a costly lesson. Contact us today to build a safer, more secure workplace for everyone.