Fall from height risks persist across various sectors and environments, including situations where working at height may occur below ground, underscoring the urgent need for renewed vigilance and proactive safety measures.
In response, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has launched targeted inspection campaigns focused on working-at-height risks, particularly in sectors such as construction and agriculture. These initiatives highlight a clear message for employers: preventing falls from height remains a critical safety priority.
What is working at height?
Working at height involves any situation where a person could be injured by a fall—regardless of the distance, and whether it’s above or below ground level. Many employees mistakenly believe:
“You’re only working at height if you’re up high.”
Why the HSA is focusing on working at height
Many falls from height occur during routine tasks such as roof repairs, ladder work, maintenance activities, or short-duration jobs where risks may be underestimated.
These tasks may seem straightforward, but even minor lapses in planning or supervision can lead to serious incidents. As a result, the HSA continues to prioritise inspections and awareness campaigns to target working-at-height practices across high-risk sectors.
For employers, this means working-at-height risks are likely to receive increased regulatory attention, and organisations should ensure their safety systems are robust and up to date.
Common causes of falls from height
Despite clear guidance, many incidents arise from preventable factors, including:
- Working from ladders or fragile surfaces
- Inadequate edge protection on roofs or elevated platforms
- Improperly erected scaffolding
- Lack of risk assessment and planning
- Insufficient training or supervision
In many cases, incidents occur when workers attempt to complete tasks quickly without appropriate safety controls in place.
Employer responsibilities under Irish safety law
Employers have clear legal duties to manage the risks associated with working at height.
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must, so far as reasonably practicable, ensure the safety, health and welfare of employees.
This obligation is reinforced by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, which include specific requirements for working at height. Work at Height Regulations (S.I. 318 of 2006 & General Application Regulations)
Key safety principle (this matters most)
Irish law follows a strict hierarchy:
- Avoiding work at height where possible
- Using suitable equipment to prevent falls
- Minimising fall distance and consequences
- Ensuring workers are properly trained and supervised
Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in enforcement action, fines, or prosecution.
Practical steps employers can take now
For many organisations, the HSA campaign serves as a reminder to review existing safety arrangements.
Employers should consider whether they have:
Updated risk assessments
Working at height activities should be clearly identified and assessed, with appropriate control measures in place.
Appropriate access equipment
Guardrails, scaffolding, mobile elevated work platforms and fall protection systems should be used where necessary.
Competent workers and supervision
Employees involved in working at height must receive suitable training and guidance.
Clear planning and safe systems of work
Tasks should be planned carefully, particularly where weather conditions or site conditions could increase risk.
Regular equipment inspection and maintenance
Access equipment and fall protection systems should be inspected and maintained regularly.
How NFP can help
Managing workplace risk effectively requires a coordinated approach that integrates safety, operational planning, and insurance strategy.
Through comprehensive risk reviews and advisory services, NFP supports organisations in identifying hazards, strengthening safety systems and improving overall risk management.
This includes helping businesses to:
- Identify operational risks that could impact insurability
- Strengthen safety controls and compliance frameworks
- Reduce exposure to incidents and associated claims
- Build resilience against operational disruption
By addressing risks proactively, organisations can improve both safety outcomes and their long-term insurability.