Health and Safety

Working at Height

Background

Working at height remains one of the commonest causes of fatalities and serious injuries in the UK. This page outlines the key standards and guidance documents available at the University of Sussex.

There are simple rules for work at height:

AVOID work at height if you can - If you don't need to go up there, don't!!
If work at height cannot be avoided- PREVENT falls by selecting and using the right access equipment.
If you cannot prevent falls- MINIMISE the impact of any fall. Where you cannot eliminate the risk of a fall, use work equipment or other means to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall, should one occur.
Steps and ladders can be used when the above methods not appropriate.
Always check for fragile roofing materials, these must be protected.

Who can use access equipment on University of Sussex Premises?

Type of equipment	General use	Authorised UoS staff e.g. engineers or ACCA	SEF and Specialist contractors	Typical controls
Library stools	√	√	√
Library steps	√	√	√
A-frame steps	√	√	√
Ladders		√	√
Tower scaffolds and MEWPs		Contact Health and Safety if required	√	PASMA or IPAF qualification
Scaffolds		Access only	√
Lanyard and Harnesses		Contact Health and Safety if required	√	Fixing points and running lines must be certified

University of Sussex Documents

References

Health and Safety Executive - Work at Height

For Advice and Assistance, contact the Health & Safety Team