Working at height

How it is used

Falls from height are one of the leading causes of deaths in construction, so working at height is tightly controlled with guardrails, harnesses, permits and training. The phrase 'work at height' is also common.

Example sentences

1. Anyone working at height must clip their harness to an anchor point.

2. Working at height on the roof is suspended until the wind drops.

Common collocations

• work at height
• working at height training
• fall protection
• safety harness
• fall arrest

Related terms

• scaffoldingA temporary framework of metal tubes and platforms put up around or inside a building so that workers can reach high areas safely.
• edge protectionBarriers such as guardrails, toe boards and mesh panels placed along the open edges of slabs, roofs, stairs and excavations to stop people and materials from falling.
• PPEPersonal protective equipment: the items workers wear to protect themselves from injury, such as a hard hat, safety boots, a high-visibility vest, gloves and goggles.
• permit to workA formal written authorisation needed before high-risk work, such as hot work, entry into a confined space or electrical work, confirming that the hazards are under control.
• hard hatA strong plastic helmet that protects the head from falling objects and knocks. On most sites it must be worn at all times outside the offices and welfare areas.

More terms: Site Safety

• risk assessment
• method statement
• toolbox talk
• near miss