"Working at height", as the name suggests, covers all work activities that are carried out at height.
This includes:
- working from ladders, scaffolds and platforms;
- working on roofs and bridges;
- working over tanks and pits.
But it is not limited to just these types of situation and actually covers a wide range of height levels, from the person working hundreds of feet above the ground, to the person standing on a chair in an office changing a light bulb, and even to those working at ground level or below ground where there is a risk of injury from falling.
Working platforms
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 altered the definition of working platforms. Prior to the regulations such platforms were viewed as fully-boarded platforms with handrails and toe boards. However, as a result of the regulations working platforms now include the following:
- Roof surfaces
- Floors
- Scaffold platforms
- Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs)
- Stepladder treads
Employers' duties
Employers and anyone controlling work at height processes must properly plan the work and supervise it adequately - they must ensure those carrying out the work are competent to do so and that the right equipment and systems of work are used.
Thompsons, Scotland's leading personal injury firm
If you or someone you love has been involved in a workplace accident call our No Win No Fee Lawyers today FREE on 0800 0891331 and we can advise you on your first steps toward receiving compensation.
