The alarming rise in falls from height in 2024 has highlighted serious failings in workplace safety, an issue obviously close to our hearts. Despite clear regulations, many companies continue to cut corners, particularly when it comes to training and supervision, which has led to an unfortunate increase in avoidable accidents.
Here we look closer at why we have had so many falls from height to report on already this year.
Inadequate Training and Competence
Workers need to be properly trained to recognise hazards and follow safety protocols, but many businesses fail to ensure this is done effectively. Without sufficient training, workers often underestimate the risks involved, especially when they are working without direct supervision. This can lead to shortcuts, with employees opting for unsafe practices that increase the likelihood of accidents.
Take the example of Andrew Smith, who fell from a ladder while working on a school in 2021. His employer, Profascias Ltd, failed to provide proper work equipment and training. Had he been given more suitable tools or instructed in safer methods of working, such as using a scaffold tower, his fall could have been prevented. Training not only equips workers with the knowledge to stay safe but also reinforces the importance of adhering to established safety measures.
Lack of Supervision Leads to Cut Corners
In many cases, workers are left unsupervised, which increases the risk of accidents. Without proper supervision, employees may cut corners, failing to use protective equipment or follow safety procedures. Supervisors play a crucial role in ensuring safety protocols are enforced and that workers do not deviate from established guidelines. When this supervision is lacking, the potential for disaster increases.
A stark example of this is the 2020 case where a roofer fell and sustained serious injuries due to the absence of basic safety measures. The incident, which occurred at Aspire Academy, was caused by poor supervision and planning which directly contributed to the accident and subsequent legal penalties for the contractor.
Poor Planning and Risk Assessments
Aside from training and supervision, poor planning is another key factor in the rising number of falls from height. Thorough risk assessments should be a standard practice for any job involving work at height. However, many employers still fail to adequately assess the hazards, leading to situations where workers are exposed to unnecessary dangers.
In one case, scaffolder Steven Gilmour fell over 5 metres after striking a live power line in 2021. His employer, Canterbury City Scaffolding Ltd, had not carried out a proper risk assessment, and no steps were taken to reduce the risks associated with the high-voltage line. This incident underscores the importance of planning and risk management in preventing accidents.
The Consequences of Neglecting Safety
The consequences of neglecting safety can be devastating, not only for the injured workers but also for the companies involved. Employers face substantial fines and legal repercussions for breaching safety regulations. Severn Valley Railway was recently fined £40,000 after a painter fell from height due to insufficient safety measures, and these penalties should serve as a wake-up call to businesses that fail to prioritise worker safety.
To learn more about safe working-at-height practices including the provision of adequate training and proper supervision, get in touch with the team at Ability International today.
