Even though workers in construction and maintenance sites are particularly at a higher risk of falling from heights, the risk also applies to many other people in different professions such as roof cleaners, decorators and window cleaners, painters, and people who do ad hoc work without proper planning, training or equipment. It, therefore, goes without saying that companies involved should conduct risk assessment to identify potential risks that could cause falls.
In most cases, falls are caused by either gaps and holes on the roof, unprotected edges, absence of a fall arrest system or fragile materials underfoot. Despite the obvious dangers of working at heights, it's astonishing how people often neglect basic safety measures which lead to devastating consequences.
Once the assessment is completed, the responsibility lies on the employer to implement control measures that will help maintain
health and safety at the workplace, by reducing the risk of any employee falling while working at heights.