Working at height feels routine, and that's exactly the problem. The risk hides behind familiarity — the ladder you've used a hundred times, the roof that's always held. This guide focuses on the thinking that prevents falls before they start, and the equipment that backs it up.
Low falls hurt too
It's tempting to think only high work is dangerous, but a fall from a ladder or through a fragile roof can be just as serious. Falls remain one of the most common causes of fatal workplace injury in Ireland.
The pattern is consistent: the outcome is decided long before the climb.
The common fall scenarios
Most incidents come from a handful of situations. Tap each to explore the risk.
Quick jobs, big risk
Most fall incidents involve ladders. Use them only for low-risk, short-duration work, footed and secured.
Work the hierarchy
Avoid, prevent, minimise — in that order. Reaching for a harness first means you've skipped the safer options.
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.
The safest height is no height. If the job can be done from the ground, keep it there.
Controlling the risk on site
When height is unavoidable, four steps keep it safe:
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.
The legal position in Ireland
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