The need to control risks from working at height is shown by a recent incident in Leicestershire where a person lost their life after falling from a machine. Steps that can be taken to control the risk of falling from machinery include:
- Avoiding jumping down from vehicles. Jumping is bad for the knees and increases the risk of a fall
- Taking time when climbing down – use the steps provided – use hand holds rather than the steering wheel
- Planning loading and unloading to avoid the need to work at height
- Wearing well fitting, slip resistant safety footwear
- Looking for well-designed access when buying a new machine and thinking about how high parts of a machine can be accessed safely
There is a guide to working at height on NFU online available here and from CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.
Guidance from the HSE is available here.