According to the latest statistics, falls from height still top the table of the most deadly workplace accidents, accounting for 26% of all fatal accidents in 2018 (37 incidents).
Investing in the correct equipment to safeguard work at height teams is vital. However, the best equipment in the world won’t be much help unless your team receive training on work at height risks and how to use equipment correctly. Training programs give team members the skills, understanding and confidence to carry out the task safely.
Why Height Safety Training is Vital
Proper height safety training is a legal requirement of both the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Working at Height Regulations 2005. Lack of sufficient height safety training can be a cause or contributor to accidents in height safety cases. If sufficient training has not been completed before work at height is carried out, you are putting your team in danger and risking a hefty fine.
Training guards against incidents and ensures team members have sufficient:
- Hazard Awareness – Training ensures teams have the necessary skills and knowledge to identify hazards and eliminate or reduce the risks to a safe level.
- Equipment Competence – Training provides teams with the know-how to select, use and inspect equipment correctly. Training also ensures workers can fit their equipment properly so it’s comfortable to use.
- Confidence – Training gives workers the confidence to carry out tasks safely. Lack of confidence can make people uneasy and increase the risk of accidents.
- Up-To-Date Information – Training regularly keeps teams ahead of the game and equips employees with up-to-date information on new equipment, hazards or procedures.
Who Should Complete Height Safety Training?
Anyone who works at height or is involved in the planning or supervising of work at height tasks must undertake height safety training. Understanding the legal requirements, risks and benefits of proper practice enables teams to work more efficiently and safely.
Remember, working at height doesn’t just include scenarios where workers are a long way above the ground. Working at height includes any situation where there is a risk of personal injury through falling, or a risk to those below the working platform.
What We Offer
Here at Hiteworx, we’re on hand to make sure you’ve got your height safety training covered. An introductory course is a great starting point and covers the basics of height safety. Depending on the job at hand, additional or more specialised training may be necessary as well. Our comprehensive training package includes:
- Introduction to Working at Height
- PFPE – Selection, Use and Inspection
- Full Protection Systems
- Industrial Rope Access
- Mobile Scaffold Tower Training
Talk to a member of our team about your training requirements today on: 0333 234 1801.