Supporting No Falls Week 12th 16th May 2025

Falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities in the UK. From construction sites to office spaces, falls can occur in any environment, making it crucial for employers and employees to prioritise safety. No Falls Week is an initiative aimed at raising awareness, sharing best practices, and driving a culture of safety to prevent falls in the workplace.

This blog explores the importance of fall prevention, the responsibilities of employers, and actionable steps to create a safer work environment.

The Impact of Workplace Falls

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE):

• Falls from height were the leading cause of fatalities in UK workplaces in 2023/24, accounting for 36% of all deaths out of 138
• Up to 37,000 people were injured from a fall from height

These statistics underline the importance of initiatives like No Falls Week, which brings attention to the preventable nature of many workplace falls.

Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law

Employers have a legal duty to ensure a safe working environment under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Work at Height Regulations 2005. These laws require employers to:

• Risk Assessments: Identify hazards that could lead to falls and take steps to mitigate them.
• Fall Prevention Measures: Implement systems to reduce risks, such as guardrails, safety nets, or fall arrest systems.
• Training and Supervision: Ensure employees understand how to work safely and have the necessary skills to do so.
• Maintenance: Keep workspaces, equipment, and access points in good condition to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Steps to Prevent Falls in the Workplace

Conduct Comprehensive Risk Assessments

• Identify fall hazards in your workplace, from height risks to slippery surfaces.
• Regularly review and update risk assessments to reflect changes in operations or the environment.

Provide Appropriate Equipment

• Use fall prevention equipment such as harnesses, guardrails, and scaffolding for work at height.
• Ensure ladders and platforms are stable, well-maintained, and used correctly.

Implement Safe Work Practices

• Encourage employees to follow safety procedures, including using the correct equipment and adhering to site rules.
• Limit work at height to essential tasks and minimise the duration and complexity of those tasks.

Ensure Proper Training

• Train employees on fall prevention, equipment usage, and emergency procedures.
• Offer refresher courses to keep safety practices top of mind.

Maintain Clean and Organised Workspaces

• Clear pathways of clutter and debris to reduce slip and trip hazards.
• Address spills and slippery surfaces immediately.

Monitor and Review Performance

• Regularly inspect work areas and equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Analyse incidents to identify trends and areas for improvement.

The Role of Employees in Preventing Falls

While employers hold the primary responsibility, employees play a critical role in maintaining safety by:

• Following training and using equipment as instructed.
• Reporting hazards, damaged equipment, or unsafe conditions.
• Staying alert to their surroundings and practicing good housekeeping.

Why No Falls Week Matters

No Falls Week serves as an opportunity to:

• Raise Awareness: Highlight the risks and consequences of falls in the workplace.
• Share Best Practices: Promote effective strategies and tools for fall prevention.
• Drive Cultural Change: Foster a safety-first mindset among employers and employees alike.

Practical Tips for No Falls Week

Employers can participate in No Falls Week by:

• Hosting toolbox talks on fall prevention.
• Reviewing and reinforcing safety policies.
• Distributing educational materials on fall risks and solutions.
• Conducting a fall prevention audit of workspaces and practices.

Employees can engage by:

• Attending training sessions and actively participating in discussions.
• Reporting concerns or offering suggestions for improved safety.

Conclusion

Falls in the workplace are preventable, and initiatives like No Falls Week provide a valuable reminder to prioritise safety. By fostering a proactive safety culture, employers and employees can work together to reduce risks, prevent injuries, and save lives.

Remember, no fall is worth the risk—let’s make every workplace a safer place.

Getting Started

As you have no doubt deduced this is no small undertaking and that’s where we can help. We offer a range of training courses and consultation services that will quickly bring you up to speed and make your workplace safer.

• • • Talk to us now – All our contact details can be found here.
    • We have a range of E-learning courses available to help you develop health and safety in your business specifically:
    • Working at height
    • Ladder Safety