HSA issues warning on fatal falls from height in construction
Following a sudden increase in the number of fatal fall from height accidents in the construction industry, the HSA is warning employers and workers of the need to take precautions. So far this year six construction workers have died as a result of falls from heights. That compares with three for the whole of 2008 and reverses an improved trend in recent years.

Speaking to the media about the dangers of working at heights, senior HSA inspector Martin O’Dea said that among the measures employers and employees need to take are:
  • avoid working at height if possible
  • where working at heights is unavoidable, use suitable work equipment to prevent falls
  • take account of weather conditions
  • ensure those working at height are adequately trained
  • be aware of the potential for objects falling on those working at lower levels and on the ground.


Pointing out that employers have a legal duty to do all that is reasonably practicable to ensure the safety and health of workers and also that workers must take personal responsibility and not do anything that might jeopardise their own or others’ safety, he said working at height is a dangerous activity and the appropriate planning and safe systems must be used.

Examining the reasons for the increase in fatal accidents, O’Dea said that “most have involved falls from roofs and ladders”. Looking at the issues in greater detail when speaking to HSR, he identified a number of other common factors in the fatal accidents.

Apart from one firm which employed less than 20 workers, all the accidents involved people who were either self-employed or working for an employer who employed three or less people. Most of the accidents occurred in rural areas. Another feature is that the accidents occurred in either single story or two story buildings.

O’Dea urges employers with three or less employees to use the HSA’s Code for Contractors with Three or Less Employees, to use the Authority’s Safe System of Work Plans (SSWP) and to use the Authority’s guidelines on the use of ladders, which are available on the HSA’s website, www.hsa.ie. Go to ‘publications’ and follow the links.