Working at Height Regulations Flashcards

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, what is the hierarchy of control for managing the risk of falls?

Answer: Avoid working at height, prevent falls using collective or personal protection, minimise consequences of a fall

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 set out a clear hierarchy: first avoid working at height if possible; if not, prevent falls using guardrails, platforms, or personal fall protection; and if falls cannot be prevented, minimise the distance and consequences of a fall.

Who has legal responsibility for ensuring safe working at height under UK law?

Answer: The employer and any person who controls the work

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the employer and anyone who controls work at height (including principal contractors) have legal responsibility for ensuring it is carried out safely.

What does PUWER 1998 require regarding the provision of MEWPs on site?

Answer: Work equipment must be suitable, maintained, inspected, and operators must be trained

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 requires that work equipment including MEWPs is suitable for its intended use, properly maintained, regularly inspected, and that operators are adequately trained and competent.

Under LOLER 1998, what must be produced following a thorough examination of a MEWP?

Answer: A written report by the competent person detailing findings and any defects

Following a thorough examination under LOLER, the competent person must produce a written report detailing the examination carried out, any defects found, and whether the equipment is safe to continue in use. This report must be kept on file.

What age must a person be to operate a MEWP on a UK construction site?

Answer: 18 years old

A person must be at least 18 years old to operate a MEWP on a construction site in the UK. This is in line with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 regarding young persons and high-risk work activities.

Which UK regulation specifically requires a rescue plan to be in place before any work at height begins?

Answer: Work at Height Regulations 2005

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (Regulation 4) specifically requires that adequate rescue procedures are in place before any work at height commences. This includes planning for the rescue of persons who may be stranded at height or suspended in a harness.