Topic 4 of 5

Working at height and manual handling

Falls from height are one of the biggest causes of death at work, and back injuries from lifting are one of the most common injuries on site.

Work at Height Regulations 2005

Plan work at height in this order:

1. Avoid working at height if you can, for example by assembling things on the ground.
2. Prevent falls using a safe place or the right equipment, such as a tower scaffold with guardrails.
3. Minimise the distance and consequences of a fall where the risk can't be removed, for example with nets or harnesses.

Ladders and stepladders

• Use them only for short, light work where a risk assessment shows they're suitable.
• Set a leaning ladder at 75°: 1 unit out from the wall for every 4 units up (the 1 in 4 rule).
• Extend it about 1 m above the landing point if you're climbing onto something.
• Keep three points of contact and don't overreach. Keep your belt buckle inside the stiles.
• Check it before use. Never use a damaged ladder.

Manual handling

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 say: avoid hazardous lifting where possible, assess what can't be avoided, and reduce the risk.

Assess with TILE:

• Task: twisting, stooping, carrying a long way?
• Individual: is the person fit, trained and strong enough?
• Load: heavy, awkward, unstable or hot?
• Environment: stairs, uneven floors, poor lighting, wind?

When lifting, plan the route, get a stable base, bend your knees not your back, keep the load close and avoid twisting.

Exam tip: a ladder 8 m up the wall should have its foot 2 m out (8 ÷ 4 = 2).