The Work at Height Regulations 2005, No. 735 (as amended)

The Work at Height Regulations 2005, enacted in the United Kingdom, are designed to ensure the safety of individuals engaged in work at height activities. The primary purpose of these regulations is to prevent accidents and injuries resulting from falls while working at heights.

Key Requirements:

1. Risk Assessment: Employers and those in control of work activities must conduct a thorough risk assessment before any work at height takes place. This assessment should identify potential hazards, evaluate risks, and plan necessary safety measures.
2. Avoid Work at Height When Possible: The regulations emphasize that work at height should be avoided whenever possible. If work can be conducted from the ground or at a lower level, it should be chosen as the safer option.
3. Use of Appropriate Equipment: When work at height is unavoidable, employers must provide appropriate equipment to ensure the safety of workers. This includes selecting the right type of equipment such as scaffolding, ladders, or platforms, and ensuring they are properly maintained.
4. Competence and Training: Workers engaged in work at height must be competent and adequately trained to use the equipment safely. Employers are responsible for providing training and ensuring that workers understand the risks and safety procedures.
5. Emergency Plans: Employers must have emergency plans in place, outlining how to rescue workers in case of an accident or injury during work at height.
6. Inspection and Maintenance: All equipment used for work at height must be inspected regularly and maintained in a safe condition.

Who They Apply To: The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to a wide range of work activities that involve working at a height where there's a risk of a fall liable to cause injury. This includes various industries such as construction, maintenance, painting, and more. The regulations apply to employers, self-employed individuals, and anyone who controls work at height activities.

The Work at Height Regulations 2005, established in the United Kingdom, lay out specific evidence requirements to ensure compliance with the regulations and to promote the safety of individuals engaged in work at height. These evidence requirements are designed to demonstrate that appropriate safety measures have been taken to prevent accidents and falls while working at heights.

Key Evidence Requirements:

1. Risk Assessment: Employers and those in control of work at height activities must conduct a thorough risk assessment before work begins. This assessment should identify potential hazards, evaluate risks, and document the control measures that will be implemented to mitigate those risks.
2. Method Statements: A method statement is required to outline the planned sequence of work, the equipment that will be used, and the safety procedures that will be followed. This document provides a detailed plan for how the work at height will be carried out safely.
3. Selection of Equipment: Employers must provide evidence that the equipment chosen for work at height is appropriate for the task and is in good working condition. This includes maintaining records of equipment inspections, maintenance, and any repairs.
4. Training and Competence Records: Employers must maintain records that demonstrate that workers involved in work at height activities are adequately trained and competent to use the equipment safely. This could include training certificates, records of completed courses, and assessments of worker competency.
5. Emergency Plans: Evidence of emergency plans and procedures should be available, detailing how workers will be rescued in case of an accident or injury during work at height. These plans should be communicated to workers and regularly reviewed.
6. Inspection Records: Regular inspections of equipment, such as scaffolding and ladders, should be documented. These records showcase that the equipment is being checked for safety and functionality at appropriate intervals.
7. Communication and Consultation: Evidence of communication and consultation with workers regarding the risks, safety measures, and procedures associated with work at height should be available. This could include meeting minutes, training records, or other forms of communication.
8. Review and Improvement: Records of reviews and assessments of the work at height processes should be maintained. These records demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement in safety measures.

Note: The specific evidence requirements may vary depending on the nature of the work and the equipment involved. Employers should ensure that they are familiar with the regulations and that they maintain accurate and up-to-date records to demonstrate compliance.