The Risks

In Irish workplaces, falls from heights represent the leading cause of workplace fatalities and a major contributor to serious injuries. When tasks involve working at any elevated level, there is an inherent risk not only to the individuals directly involved but also to those in the surrounding area.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report for the year 2021/22, work at height accounted for 8% of all injuries that were reportable, resulting in a staggering 19 tragic fatalities.

It is important to note that a significant number of severe injuries and tragic fatalities occur as a consequence of falls from heights below head level. What makes these incidents all the more tragic is that, in almost every instance, they are entirely preventable with the right safety measures and precautions in place.