With more than 46 fatal incidents over the course of 2006, falling from height continues to be the biggest cause of death within UK workplaces, it ahs been revealed.

In addition, over 3,000 serious injuries were caused this way, with many employers failing to comply with the laws concerning working from height despite a number of recent prosecutions.

Most notably, GDM Partnership Building Services Consultants was found guilty of breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 after a surveyor suffered multiple fractures as a result of falling from a height of six metres off a flat roof.

Under the Work at Height Regulations passed in 2005, employers are required to ensure that all work being carried out at height is properly planned and organised and carried out by capable workers.

With the release of these latest statistics, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued asset of guidelines for firms to follow regarding working at height.

Comprehensive risk assessments of any work to be carried out are the key to minimising danger, according to the HSE, while equipment and safety measures, such as guardrails, should be regularly checked.

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