Heights

Work at height is work in any place where, without precautions, a person could fall far enough to be injured. Falls from height are the most common cause of fatal injury at work and the second most common cause of major injury. The main causes are:

• failing to recognise the risk
• not providing a safe system of work and making sure that it is followed
• not giving enough information, training, instruction or supervision
• not using equipment properly, or at all

If your work includes work at height, make sure that it is properly planned and organised, the workers are competent, you have assessed the risks and chosen and made them use suitable equipment, the risk from fragile surfaces is controlled, and the equipment is inspected and maintained. Avoid work at height wherever you can. If you cannot, use equipment or other measures to prevent falls, and to reduce the distance and the result of a fall.

A window cleaner fell 2.3 metres from a ladder while cleaning a show home on a new housing estate and broke his arm, ribs and fingers. The ladder was not secured or footed, and the ground sloped gently away from the building. The construction company had no method statement, and the man had not been given a site induction.

Housekeeping

Poor housekeeping leaves workplaces dirty, untidy, crowded and obstructed, and that leads to many hazards. Spillages and tools left about cause slips and trips. Badly stored materials can add to a fire and block the way to an exit. Ask the team to tidy up after themselves and report problems, and carry out regular housekeeping inspections.

Welfare facilities

Employers must provide facilities for the welfare and comfort of the workforce:

• toilets and washing facilities
• drinking water
• storage for clothing and changing areas where needed
• rest and eating areas
• showers, depending on the work

Toilets and washing facilities must be kept clean, ventilated and well lit. Include them in inspections and encourage your team to use them.

Lighting

Good lighting helps people see hazards and reduces eye discomfort and tiredness. Natural light is best and should be provided wherever reasonably practicable. Watch for:

• too little light or too much
• glare and reflections
• shadows in critical places such as entrances or near steps
• large differences in light between areas, for example when you walk from a dim room into bright sunlight and cannot see the traffic
• extra light where the job needs it, since people work better when they can see properly

A study aid, not published or endorsed by IOSH or OSHA. Laws and limits differ between countries.