Working at height is not a workplace environment you can just walk into, as it requires several types of training depending on the exact conditions of the workplace. Experts consider it one of, if not the most, dangerous jobs in the UK, as if anything goes wrong, the consequences could be fatal.So, in this article, we’re looking into the importance of training your employees for working at height. We will answer all your burning questions on the topic, including whose responsibility it is to organise training as well as what the legal requirements are. 

 Here at Altus Safety, we’re working at height specialists who care about your safety and that of your employees and business, so read on for professional advice you can trust. 

The Hierarchy of Control Measures: Working at Height

According to The Hierarchy of Control Measures: Working at Height, Minimising Consequences Through Instruction and Training is level 8, the final level in the hierarchy. However, despite it being the last level, it is a crucial step in the organisation of working at height and must be put into place for every job, in addition to the higher levels of the hierarchy.It means that all workers are completely aware of the risks involved in each job that requires working from height before the job has commenced. Additionally, all employees must be educated and trained on correctly assembling any equipment needed and must be instructed on how to use them safely. Employees must also be made aware of all safety guidelines and laws for working at height. 

Who is Responsible for Organising Training?

It is the company owner’s responsibility to organise the appropriate training for their employees. Whilst safety lies in the hands of everyone working at the time, the company owner must ensure that everyone working has had the proper training, both generally and for each particular job required.  Additionally, the company owner must also ensure that they implement safety equipment training. It is essential that training is completed and a record is kept so the company owner can keep on top of if and know when training expires, as well as what training has been done. 

What Work Requires Training?

Working from height is defined as any work completed anywhere where a person could fall to lower levels and cause personal injuries if the appropriate safety measures are not put in place.This means that training is required for any job that involves work in these conditions. For example, training is needed for working on roofs with equipment such as roof access platforms, roof walkways, and other roof access equipment. Similarly, training must be completed when the work conducted is a little closer to the ground, such as up a set of ladders. Even something as simple as a step ladder needs proper training to ensure the worker’s safety. 

What Training is Legally Required?

Training is legally required before working at height can commence. A competent person is liable for conducting and ensuring this training has been completed by all staff members before work has begun. If you do not have a competent person in your company, working at height cannot commence.They must conduct the proper training for each job and each piece of equipment to make every staff member aware of the risks and how to complete the job safely. If your company does not have the proper training in place, the company owner is liable, and their business is at risk. 

What Are the Risks?

As mentioned, working from height is considered one of, if not the most, dangerous job in the UK as the risks can be fatal. If the proper training is not completed and employees are unaware of how to work at height or use the safety equipment, their lives are in danger. 

 Additionally, if your company is operating work from height without the proper training in place, the company owner is liable. This means that not only could the company face a hefty fine, but their job is also in danger. This is critical for the business’s success, as if the industry discovers this information, the company will struggle to make network connections, find new employees, or grow as a business as their reputation will have been damaged. 

What Training Courses are Available?

Working from height training doesn’t just take place in a classroom. There are plenty of options available for those looking for training, with practical courses necessary to ensure that employees have seen and practised with the equipment they will use on the job.Suppose you’re the competent person or company owner of the business. In that case, you must choose certified and legitimate courses run by professionals who will provide certification upon completion of the course. 

How Can Altus Safety Help?

Once the proper training has been completed, Altus Safety can ensure that your company has implemented appropriate safety equipment. We offer a range of working at height solutions, from equipment to inspections, to testing. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you.