As part of the government’s Red Tape Challenge, the scheme by which outdated or over-complicated regulations are improved or abolished, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has overhauled its guidance for Working at Height to make it easier for employers and employees to understand what the law requires of them when working at height.
According to the latest NSCC Accident Survey, 24.9% of all major injuries to specialist contractors in 2012/13 were caused by falls from height. The new guidance from the HSE sets out in simple terms what is required when working at height and addresses common myths that might confuse or mislead employers.
Key changes to the guidance include:
- Providing simple advice about dos and don’ts when working at height to ensure employers and workers are clear on what the law requires
- Debunking some of the persistent myths about health and safety law, such as the banning of ladders in situations where they can still be used
- Offering targeted advice to help business in different sectors manage serious risks sensibly and proportionately
- Helping workers to be clearer about their responsibilities for working safely.
Further information on working at height, including the new guidance, can be found on the HSE website
