Working at Height Risk Assessment Template

Height Safety and Compliance Management

This form is a vital tool for anyone carrying out work at height. It helps identify dangers, evaluate risks, and put in place suitable controls to protect everyone involved.

Working at Height Risk Assessment

Date of Assessment:

Assessed By:

Work Location/Area:

Next Review Date:

1. Task Details

Description of the work at height activity:

How long and how often the task is performed:

Access equipment or method used (e.g., ladder, scaffold, mobile elevated work platform):

2. Hazard Identification

Main hazards present (e.g., falling from height, objects falling, slips/trips, equipment collapse):

Where these hazards come from:

Possible injuries or health effects:

3. Risk Evaluation

Who could be harmed (e.g., operatives, supervisors, members of the public):

Likelihood of the hazard occurring:

How serious the consequences could be:

Overall risk rating:

4. Control Measures

Current safety precautions already in place (e.g., fall-arrest harness, edge protection, safe ladder angle):

Extra controls needed to reduce the risk:

Actions required and timescale:

Person responsible for making sure actions are completed:

5. Training & Competence

What training or qualifications are needed for the task:

How competence of workers will be checked:

6. Equipment & Inspection

Condition and suitability of the access equipment being used:

Frequency of inspections and maintenance:

7. Emergency & Rescue Arrangements

Rescue plan in case someone falls or is suspended in a harness:

First-aid provisions on site:

8. Monitoring & Review

How the controls will be checked to ensure they remain effective:

Date when this assessment will be reviewed:

9. Additional Notes / Comments

Assessor

Signature:

Date:

Supervisor/Manager Approval (if required)

Signature:

Date:

The Working at Height Risk Assessment Form is a key document for keeping people safe when working above ground level.

By thoroughly identifying hazards, properly evaluating risks, and applying effective control measures, it significantly lowers the chance of falls and other incidents.

This assessment must be regularly reviewed and updated whenever tasks, equipment, or conditions change, to ensure ongoing safety and full compliance with regulations.

Working at height is one of the most common yet dangerous activities in construction, maintenance, warehousing, and industrial operations. Whether it’s climbing ladders, using scaffolding, accessing rooftops, or working on elevated platforms, even a small mistake can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. This makes it essential for businesses and workers to understand the risks and implement strong safety measures.

What Is Working at Height?

Working at height refers to any task where a person could fall from one level to another and get injured. This includes:

Working on ladders, scaffolds, or mobile platforms
Performing tasks on roofs, mezzanines, or elevated walkways
Working near edges, pits, or openings
Using equipment like boom lifts or cherry pickers

If there is a chance of falling and being hurt, it qualifies as working at height.

Common Working at Height Risks

1. Falls from Heights

The most serious hazard. Falls can happen due to unstable surfaces, improper ladder use, or lack of guardrails or harnesses.

2. Falling Objects

Tools, materials, or equipment dropped from height can injure people below.

3. Unstable or Weak Platforms

Damaged scaffolding, loose planks, or weak roofing sheets pose major risks.

4. Weather & Environmental Conditions

Rain, wind, dust, or poor lighting can reduce visibility and balance, increasing fall chances.

5. Lack of Proper Training

Workers without training may use equipment incorrectly or fail to identify unsafe conditions.

How to Control and Reduce Working at Height Risks

1. Avoid Working at Height When Possible

Use long-handled tools, extendable equipment, or floor-level alternatives.

2. Use the Right Equipment

Select sturdy ladders, certified scaffolds, or approved fall-protection gear.

3. Provide Guardrails & Fall-Arrest Systems

Install edge protection, safety nets, harnesses, and anchor points.

4. Conduct Regular Inspections

Check ladders, platforms, and PPE before every use.

5. Train Workers Properly

Ensure every worker understands equipment use, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

6. Maintain a Clean Work Area

Remove loose materials, debris, slippery substances, and obstructions.

7. Assess Weather Conditions

Stop work during high winds, rain, storms, or poor visibility.

Why Working at Height Safety Matters

Following height-safety procedures prevents accidents, protects lives, reduces downtime, and keeps businesses compliant with safety regulations. A proactive approach not only builds a safer workplace but also improves overall operational efficiency.

Working at Height Risk Assessment Template