This expert guide is produced by HLS, a supplier of working at height equipment and services. It is intended for health and safety managers, facilities managers, and maintenance engineers who specify or oversee equipment for work at height. The guide aims to help readers reduce risk, improve safety outcomes, and maintain compliance with current legislation. The document opens with an…
This expert guide is produced by HLS, a supplier of working at height equipment and services. It is intended for health and safety managers, facilities managers, and maintenance engineers who specify or oversee equipment for work at height. The guide aims to help readers reduce risk, improve safety outcomes, and maintain compliance with current legislation.
The document opens with an introduction explaining why working at height remains a leading cause of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in Great Britain. It presents HSE fatal and non-fatal injury statistics for 2025/26, showing that falls from height account for around 25% of all workplace deaths and are the single largest cause of fatal injury.
A section on HSE prosecutions describes real incidents where poor planning or missing controls led to life-changing injuries or fatalities. Examples include a ladder fall during a renovation and a cherry picker struck by a bus. The guide also covers mandatory harness use in boom lifts to prevent the catapult effect.
The legal framework is explained through the Work at Height Regulations 2005, which require work to be properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent persons using suitable equipment. The guide references LOLER and PUWER regulations for thorough examinations and inspections.
HLS services are detailed throughout, including equipment supply, hire, maintenance, training, site surveys, and risk assessments. The company emphasises independent advice based on safety and compliance rather than brand preference. Additional support services such as daily checklist reviews, task analysis, and rescue plan reviews are also listed.