Working at Height: Lessons from a Serious Fall Incident
Falls from height remain one of the most serious risks in construction, responsible for more workplace deaths and injuries than almost any other cause. A recent prosecution in Worcestershire has once again highlighted the importance of planning and safe access.
The Incident
In February 2024, a 56-year-old installer fell through an unguarded skylight opening while working on a first-floor orangery extension. He suffered life-changing injuries, including head trauma, broken ribs, and internal organ damage. His mobility has been permanently affected, and he has since been diagnosed with PTSD.
The HSE investigation found there was:
- No external protection around the perimeter of the extension.
- No internal measures to reduce the risk of falling inside.
- No clear planning or safe instructions provided to workers.
The employer pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act and was fined £40,000 plus costs.
The HSE’s Message
HSE Inspector Jo Quigley said:
“Working at height remains one of the leading causes of workplace injury and death.
This incident could have easily had fatal consequences and it highlights the importance of undertaking a thorough assessment of the risks for all work at height activities. Suitable control measures, such as internal crash deck, should also be implemented to minimise the risk of serious personal injury.
Every company that carries out building alterations must understand they are undertaking construction work; and therefore ensure they put in place suitable control and management measures throughout the duration of the work to the same standards as the wider construction industry.”
The Lesson
The key point is clear: incidents like this are preventable. Employers must plan every work at height activity, assess the risks, and provide safe access and protective measures for their teams.
Where Access Solutions Help
While no single product can replace planning, training, or compliance, safe access equipment makes it easier to manage these risks effectively.
- Access Towers provide stable platforms for installation and maintenance tasks where scaffolding isn’t practical.
- Access Stairs give workers a consistent, secure way of moving between levels, reducing reliance on ladders.
These solutions reduce exposure to hazards, support better safety outcomes, and help contractors meet their responsibilities under the law.
Availability Matters
Another challenge is availability. When equipment isn’t on hand, there is a temptation to proceed without safeguards. Reliable supply chains mean contractors don’t have to compromise. Consistency of equipment availability directly supports safer working environments.
Moving Forward
This incident isn’t only about one company. It is a reminder across the industry that working at height must always be treated with the same high standards of safety planning and control.
Every worker deserves to go home safely. Making sure the right access solutions are built into every project is one of the most effective ways to prevent incidents like this in the future.
