Safety systems for working at heights
[edit] Introduction
While everyone understands the dangers of working at height, not everybody is familiar with the different types of solutions that are available. This brief overview provides a simple synopsis of each type.
[edit] Fall prevention
There are two general types of protection: collective and personal.
Collective systems can be temporary (scaffolding, cranes, working platforms, safety netting, safety mats and so on), or permanent (guardrails, walls, parapets, glass barriers, trolleys and so on) and protect numerous people. Permanent collective restraints may be installed around the perimeter a structure to block access to hazardous areas. They are passive and do not require additional action or equipment.
For more information see: Collective restraint systems.
Personal safety lifelines are customised for a single worker and are active. This means workers need to take action by wearing the equipment in order to be safe. These personal lifelines include fall arrest systems (to minimise injury during a fall) and fall restraint systems (to prevent a fall from happening in the first place) and can be either temporary or permanent.
For more information see: Fall arrest systems and Fall prevention systems.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Approved Document K.
- BS 7883.
- BS 7883 guide released.
- Collective restraint systems.
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations.
- Fall arrest systems.
- Fall prevention systems.
- FASET.
- Injuries on construction sites.
- Personal fall protection system.
- Roped access for conservation projects.
- Safety in high places.
- Site safety.
- Work at height checklist for managers.
- Work at height regulations.
- Work at height.
- Working at height - our duty to prevent harm and protect each other.
- Working at height training.
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.