Finance Editor, Kael Tripton Ltd - LBS MBA - Verified against FCA Handbook: 14 June 2026
Quick answer
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to all work where there is a risk of falling -- there is no minimum height. The hierarchy: avoid work at height, then prevent falls (collective protection), then minimise consequences (personal fall protection). Ladders are a last resort for short-duration low-risk work only. A risk assessment is required for all work at height.
What Are the Working at Height Regulations 2005?
Direct answer
What do the Working at Height Regulations 2005 require?
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/735) apply to all work with a risk of falling -- no minimum height. Hierarchy: avoid, then prevent falls with collective protection (scaffolding, guard rails), then minimise with personal protection (harnesses). Ladders are a last resort for short-duration work only. Risk assessment required.
FCA Handbook - Work at Height Regulations 2005 Reg 6(3) - Verbatim Rule Text Source: handbook.fca.org.uk
Where it is not reasonably practicable to prevent a fall occurring, a duty-holder shall take suitable and sufficient measures to minimise the distance and consequences of any fall, so far as is reasonably practicable.
Assess whether work at height can be avoided
Can the task be done from ground level? Long-handled tools, pole systems and remote equipment can often eliminate the need to work at height.
Select the right collective protection
For prolonged work: scaffolding with guard rails, toe boards and safe access. For short-term: tower scaffold, MEWP or working platform with barriers.
Only use ladders for short-duration low-risk work
Ladders are acceptable for work lasting no more than 30 minutes where three points of contact can be maintained throughout the task.
Inspect all equipment before each use
Check for defects, damage or wear. All equipment must be inspected and records kept under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) where applicable.
Train all workers before they work at height
Training must be appropriate to the work and equipment. Keep training records.
Related KT guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Working at Height Regulations 2005?
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/735) came into force on 6 April 2005, implementing the EU Temporary Work at Height Directive. They apply to all work at height where there is a risk of falling that could cause personal injury. Work at height is defined as work in any place -- including at ground level -- where a person could fall and be injured. There is no minimum height threshold -- even working on a step stool can be 'work at height' if there is a risk of injury from a fall.
Who do the Working at Height Regulations apply to?
The regulations apply to all employers and the self-employed who carry out work at height, and to any person who controls others doing work at height. This includes construction, cleaning, maintenance, installation, tree surgery and any other work where falls are a risk. The duty holder must ensure that work at height is properly planned, appropriately supervised, and carried out in a way that is as safe as reasonably practicable.
What is the hierarchy of control for working at height?
Regulation 6 of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 sets out a hierarchy of control measures. First: avoid work at height where possible (e.g. use long-handled tools from ground level). Second: prevent falls using collective protection (guard rails, barriers, safety nets). Third: minimise the distance and consequences of falls using personal fall protection (harnesses, safety nets below). Equipment and systems must be chosen in order -- you cannot move to the next level without exhausting the options above.
Do I need a risk assessment for working at height?
Yes. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, a risk assessment is required for all work activities including work at height. The risk assessment must identify: the risk of falls, the work at height equipment to be used, emergency and rescue procedures, and the competence of those doing the work. For higher-risk work (roofs, fragile surfaces, unprotected edges), a written risk assessment is recommended even if not legally required.
What equipment is required for working at height?
Equipment must be suitable for the purpose, inspected before use, and maintained in good condition. Common equipment: scaffolding (for prolonged work at height), mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), tower scaffolds, ladders (for short-duration low-risk work only), harnesses and lanyards. Ladders are considered equipment of last resort under the hierarchy -- they should only be used when other collective protection is not reasonably practicable.
Primary sources
Kael Tripton Ltd is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office under registration number ZC135439.
