How common are fall from height accidents at work?
HSE 2024/25: 680,000 total workplace injuries, falls from height leading fatal cause; RIDDOR data on non-fatal falls
What does the Work at Height Regulations 2005 require?
Hierarchy: avoid work at height where possible; where not, use collective protection (guardrails, nets) before personal protection (harnesses); inspect all equipment; competent persons only
What are the most common causes?
Unguarded edges, defective ladders, unsecured scaffolding boards, fragile roofs, failure to provide harness, wet/slippery surfaces at height
What injuries are typical?
Fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries, internal injuries, fatalities
How is a fall from height claim valued?
Link to /compensation-amounts; reference JCG ranges for fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries
What if safety equipment was not provided?
PPE Regs 1992, WAHR 2005 — employer cannot simply say "worker chose not to use it" if PPE not available
What evidence supports the claim?
Site inspection records, RIDDOR report, photographs, scaffold inspection records, witness statements, training records
Fatal fall from height — what are the family's options?
Brief — link to /fatal-accident-at-work-claim
Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.
Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.
0800 000 0000Where did the accident happen?
Pick the setting closest to your situation.
Sources
- Work at Height Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/735)
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
- HSE — Falls from height statistics 2024/25
- Judicial College Guidelines, 17th edition (2024)
- RIDDOR 2013
This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.