Every task performed at height should begin with a thorough risk assessment. Before anyone leaves the ground, the crew must identify fall hazards, evaluate the risks, and determine the safest way to complete the work. A well-planned assessment helps prevent incidents by eliminating hazards where possible and applying effective controls before work starts.
This toolbox talk reviews the key elements of a working at height risk assessment and the responsibilities of every worker to identify and report changing conditions.
Why This Matters
- Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries and fatalities.
- Many height-related incidents occur because hazards were not identified before work began.
- A risk assessment helps select the safest equipment and work methods.
- Conditions can change throughout the day, requiring the assessment to be updated.
- Every worker has a responsibility to recognize and report hazards.
Common Hazards
- Unprotected roof edges, floor openings, or elevated platforms.
- Unstable or uneven ground supporting ladders, scaffolds, or lifts.
- Weather conditions such as wind, rain, lightning, or ice.
- Fragile surfaces, skylights, or roof panels.
- Falling tools, materials, or debris striking workers below.
- Overhead power lines or energized equipment.
- Poor lighting or limited visibility.
- Using the wrong access equipment for the task.
Safety Checklist
Before Work Begins
- Complete a risk assessment for the specific task and work area.
- Identify all fall hazards and determine who may be affected.
- Consider whether the work can be completed without working at height.
- Select the safest access equipment for the job.
- Review weather conditions and environmental factors.
- Verify fall protection systems, rescue procedures, and emergency contacts are in place.
- Communicate the assessment and control measures to the entire crew.
During Work
- Monitor for changing site conditions that may introduce new hazards.
- Stay within the limits of the selected equipment and fall protection systems.
- Maintain good housekeeping to reduce slip and trip hazards.
- Protect workers below by controlling falling-object hazards.
- Report any new hazards immediately and update the risk assessment if necessary.
- Stop work if the planned controls are no longer effective.
Crew Talking Points
- What are today's fall hazards?
- Can this task be completed without working at height?
- What controls are being used to eliminate or reduce the risks?
- What equipment has been selected, and why is it the safest option?
- What changes in weather or site conditions could affect the work?
- Speak up if you identify a hazard that is not covered in the risk assessment.
Stop Work If
- A required risk assessment has not been completed.
- New hazards have developed that are not addressed by the existing controls.
- Weather conditions make working at height unsafe.
- Fall protection systems are missing, damaged, or unsuitable.
- The selected access equipment is no longer appropriate for the task.
- You are unsure how the risks will be controlled.
Final Reminder
A risk assessment is more than a form to complete—it is the foundation of safe work at height. Identify the hazards, choose the right controls, review changing conditions, and never begin work until the risks have been properly managed.
| Crew Member Name | Signature | Date |
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