Falls from height are one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries and fatalities in the UK. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height account for a significant percentage of all fatal workplace accidents, particularly in industries such as construction, roofing, window cleaning, and warehouse operations. Even falls from relatively low heights can result in broken bones, head injuries, spinal damage, and long-term disabilities, making it essential for employers to implement strict safety measures.

Common Causes of Falls from Height

Workplace falls can happen in a variety of ways, with the most common causes including:

  • Unsafe scaffolding or ladders: Improperly secured or poorly maintained scaffolding, ladders, and mobile platforms are a major risk.
  • Lack of protective barriers: missing or inadequate guardrails and safety nets can increase the likelihood of falls.
  • Unstable surfaces: walking on fragile roofs, unsteady flooring, or poorly constructed platforms can result in serious falls.
  • Failure to use personal protective equipment (PPE): employers who fail to provide or enforce the use of harnesses and other fall protection equipment put workers at risk.
  • Poor training and supervision: workers who are not properly trained in working at height may take unnecessary risks or fail to use equipment correctly.

Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law

Employers have a legal obligation under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to prevent falls wherever possible.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Eliminating the need to work at height where possible by using safer alternatives.
  • Providing suitable equipment, such as secure scaffolding, harnesses, and fall arrest systems.
  • Conducting regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate hazards.
  • Ensuring all employees are properly trained in safe working at height procedures.
  • Maintaining all access equipment to ensure it remains safe and secure.

Failure to comply with these responsibilities can result in severe legal consequences, including personal injury claims, financial penalties, and prosecution.

What to Do After a Fall from Height

If you have suffered a fall from height at work, it is crucial to take the following steps:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention: even minor falls can result in internal injuries or delayed symptoms.
  2. Report the accident to your employer and ensure it is documented in the accident book.
  3. Gather evidence, including photos of the accident site, witness statements, and any safety failings.
  4. Keep records of medical treatment and financial losses, such as lost wages and rehabilitation costs.
  5. Consult a solicitor to determine whether you are eligible to claim compensation.

Claiming Compensation for Falls from Height

If your fall was due to unsafe working conditions, a lack of proper equipment, or employer negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

Making a Claim Can Help You Recover Losses Such As:

  • Medical and Rehabilitation Costs
    This includes expenses for hospital treatment, GP appointments, physiotherapy, counselling, and any other medical or therapeutic support needed as a result of your injury.
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses
    These may include the cost of damaged personal items (such as clothing or mobile phones), travel to and from medical appointments, parking fees, or assistance with daily living during recovery.
  • Loss of Earnings
    If your injury has caused you to take time off work—whether short-term or long-term—you may be entitled to recover lost income. This can include loss of bonuses, overtime, or future earning potential if your ability to work has been affected.
  • Pain, Suffering, and Loss of Amenity
    Compensation may also be awarded for the physical and emotional pain you’ve experienced, as well as the wider impact on your day-to-day life, hobbies, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Preventing Falls from Height

Preventing falls requires a combination of employer responsibility and worker awareness.

Employers should:

  • Implement proper safety measures, including harnesses, guardrails, and fall arrest systems.
  • Provide high-quality training to all workers operating at height.
  • Regularly inspect and maintain access equipment to prevent failures.

Employees should:

  • Always follow safety protocols and use fall protection equipment.
  • Report any unsafe conditions or faulty equipment to supervisors.
  • Avoid taking unnecessary risks when working at height.

By prioritising safe working practices, the risk of serious falls can be significantly reduced. However, if you have suffered an injury due to inadequate safety measures or employer negligence, seeking expert legal advice can help you secure the compensation you deserve.