Hierarchy of Control for Working at Height

The Hierarchy of Control provides clear guidance on how to manage the risk—starting with the most effective methods and moving down to the last-resort options.

By following this structure, building owners, facilities managers, and contractors can make informed decisions about the right fall protection system—while meeting legal and moral responsibilities.

When working at height can’t be avoided, a systematic approach is essential.

Eliminate the Risk If You Can

Not every job needs to be done from height. It may be possible to change how a task is approached—such as relocating equipment to ground level or using long-reach tools for maintenance. If access at height is no longer needed, the fall risk disappears altogether.

When working at height truly is unavoidable, the focus must shift to controlling the hazard in the safest, most effective way possible—starting with collective protection.

Prevent Falls with Collective Systems

If working at height is necessary, collective protection—such as guardrails, permanent edge protection, or gantry walkways—should be used to physically block the fall hazard. These systems protect everyone who accesses the area, require minimal training, and don’t depend on the user’s actions.

Where collective systems can’t be installed, implement

Where collective systems can't be applied implement fall restraint.

These systems include a harness, lanyard, and fixed anchor point to limit how far a worker can travel—preventing them from reaching an unprotected edge. Though considered "personal," they must still be properly designed, tested, and maintained to comply with standards.

Fall arrest is the last line of defence.

These systems stop a worker who has already fallen, absorbing the shock and reducing the impact on the body. This includes harnesses, lanyards, inertia reels, and anchorage points. Because of the risk involved, fall arrest systems must be carefully designed and supported by rescue procedures, training, and regular inspection.

Aligning Height Safety Controls with British Standards

At ProAltus Group, every solution is designed and delivered in alignment with leading British Standards for work-at-height safety.

Safe by Design

The safest solution is to eliminate the need to work at height entirely. Adjusting building design to avoid exposure to fall risks is supported by BS 8560, which provides guidance on design for safe access in buildings.

This proactive approach not only reduces long-term maintenance risks, but also demonstrates early commitment to compliance, worker safety, and cost-effective asset management throughout the life cycle of the building.

Prioritise Collective Systems

If work at height can’t be avoided, collective protection like guardrails and walkways is your next line of defence. These solutions align with BS EN 13374 (temporary edge protection systems) and BS 14122 (permanent means of access).

By safeguarding multiple users at once without relying on individual behaviour, these systems significantly reduce risk and simplify ongoing compliance, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic or multi-user environments.

Use PPE to Limit Access

Where collective measures aren’t feasible, fall restraint systems—anchored, tested, and designed to standard—prevent access to danger zones. Use BS 7883 for system design and BS EN 795 for anchor devices.

These systems physically restrict movement toward edges or drop zones, and when correctly maintained, provide reliable, passive protection that helps ensure workers operate only within designated, low-risk areas.

Plan for All Eventualities

Even with effective systems in place, emergencies can happen. Ensure rescue plans are developed, practiced, and readily deployable to avoid serious outcomes from delays or lack of preparedness.

Regular drills, clearly defined responsibilities, and equipment maintenance are critical for ensuring swift response times. A well-executed rescue plan can make the difference between a controlled incident and a life-threatening emergency.

Regulation-Ready Solutions for Every Project

Whether you’re managing a new build, retrofit, or scheduled maintenance, your fall protection system should follow the hierarchy—not convenience. Talk to ProAltus about a tailored, regulation-ready solution.