Most of us have stood on something we probably shouldn't have to reach that last bit. It's easy done — and it's exactly how falls happen. This friendly guide walks through the order to think in, the spots where falls really occur, and the simple choices that keep both feet under you.
It's not always the big drops
You'd be surprised how many serious injuries come from low falls — a ladder slip, a step off a platform, a foot through a fragile roof. Falls are one of Ireland's leading causes of workplace death.
And nearly every one could have been headed off before the climb began.
Where falls really happen
A few familiar situations cause most incidents. Have a click through each one.
Quick jobs, big risk
Most fall incidents involve ladders. Use them only for low-risk, short-duration work, footed and secured.
Three steps, in the right order
Avoid it, prevent it, minimise it. Don't jump straight to a harness if you never needed to leave 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.
Could the job be done from the ground? Then keep it there. No height means no fall.
Staying safe when you do go up
When there's no way around it, four steps keep things steady:
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 Irish law asks
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