The Work at Height Regulations 2005 are UK regulations made under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 that set out duties to prevent falls from any height where injury is reasonably foreseeable. The regulations apply to roof-level drainage works including gutter clearance, roof drainage maintenance, soil vent pipe terminations and inspection of high-level rainwater outlets. They require a hierarchy of avoiding work at height, using collective protection such as scaffolding and edge protection, and only using personal protective equipment as a last resort. Enforcement is by the Health and Safety Executive, with falls being one of the leading causes of fatal construction accidents in the UK. Practical implications for drainage contractors across Greater London include competent risk assessment for any pitched roof work and use of mobile elevating work platforms where ladders are not appropriate. The formal reference is the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/735).
Working at Height Regulations 2005
UK regulations setting out duties to prevent falls from height, including roof drainage works.
