Working at Height, including Safe Use of Ladders & Step Ladders

Falls from height are one of the most common forms of accident at work, comprising nearly 20% of all workplace injuries. Every year, falls result in around 5000 cases of major injury and about 80 fatalities, usually from heights above two metres. The construction industry alone accounts for half of these incidents.

It is estimated that the annual cost to society of accidents caused by falls is in the region of more than 300 million pounds, primarily in terms of personal suffering, but also including medical costs, costs to employers, lost output and damage to equipment.

Course Aim

This course is designed to provide candidates with a thorough understanding of working at height including the Work at Height Regulations 2005, safety requirements and an introduction to the range of safe working methods available.

The second part of the course provides candidates with knowledge about the hazards and safe systems of work associated with the use of ladders and stepladders

Who Should Attend

The course is suitable for managers, designers, supervisors, employees and self-employed people who work or plan/manage/supervise work at height.

The second part of the course is particularly suitable for candidates who are experienced users of ladders and step ladders, but require formal training to comply with the requirements of the working at height regulations.

Content of Course

The course includes:

  • Working at height accident statistics
  • Legislation relating to working at height, eg Working at Height Regulations 2005, HASAWA 1974, PUWER 1998 etc
  • Hierarchy of protection
  • Planning work at height, including risk assessments and method statements
  • Competence for planning and working at height
  • Selection of appropriate equipment
  • Inspection & maintenance of work equipment
  • Specific hazards associated with the use of ladders and step ladders
  • Safe systems of work for ladders and step ladders
  • Practical alternatives to ladders and step ladders

Objectives

By the end of the course, candidates will understand how to plan or undertake work at height in accordance with the requirements of the work at height regulations.

Certificates

A certificate of competence is provided for all candidates that attend the course.

Duration of Course

Half day