Safety When Working at Heights: Common Mistakes and Risks
Working at heights isn’t just about being secured. The greatest risks often arise even before the work begins—due to poor risk assessment, improperly selected anchors, insufficient equipment checks, or a lack of an emergency plan. Take a look at the most common mistakes that can lead to falls from heights, and how to prevent them in practice.
Key Facts to Start With
- In 2023, 77 fatal workplace accidents were recorded in the Czech Republic
- Falls from heights have long been among the most serious workplace risks
- Many accidents can be prevented through proper risk assessment, planning, and prevention
- Work at heights is regulated starting at 1.5 meters according to Government Regulation No. 362/2005 Coll.
- Proper anchoring, the selection of PPE, and a prepared rescue plan also play a significant role
The most common mistakes when working at heights are frequently repeated across various types of work sites—on roofs, structures, ladders, and when working over open depths. Falls from heights have long been among the most serious risks in occupational safety, and their consequences are often very severe. This article highlights specific mistakes that can be prevented through proper preparation, selection of appropriate safety equipment, inspection of PPE, and adherence to safety procedures.
What are the most common mistakes when working at heights?
The most common mistakes include poor selection of anchor points, insufficient inspection of PPE, an inappropriate method of securing, a missing rescue plan, and underestimating risks before starting work. It is precisely the combination of these factors that often determines whether work at heights will be safely managed.
Based on practical experience and recommendations from expert sources, several critical areas where mistakes frequently occur can be identified:
| Type of fault | Frequency of occurrence | Severity of consequences | Possibility of prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faulty anchoring | Common | Critical | Very high |
| Inadequate PPE monitoring | Common | High | Very high |
| Incorrect knot tying | Common | Critical | High |
| Lack of a contingency plan | Common | High | Very high |
| Bad communication | Less common | Medium to high | High |
Why is choosing the wrong anchor points so dangerous?
Weak or improperly selected anchor points can cause the entire fall protection system to fail. Anchors must always be designed, selected, and used according to the specific situation, type of work, direction of the load, and applicable requirements for the given fall protection system.
The most common anchoring errors include:
- Relying on unverified structures – using window sills, roof elements, or ventilation without checking load-bearing capacity
- Incorrect load direction – anchors loaded in a direction other than that for which they were intended
- Lack of a backup solution – relying on a single element without a well-thought-out safety system
- Missing edge protection – the rope can be damaged by sharp edges of the structure
- Undocumented decision – no record of the selection and inspection of the anchor point
Real-World Experience: When a Structure Only Looks Safe
On one of our first projects, we were tasked with creating an anchor point under the roof of a production hall. At first glance, it appeared to be a massive steel structure. It looked sturdy, was firmly in place, and seemed like an element that could easily support the load.
However, when loaded, it turned out that the structural element was not firmly connected to the building’s load-bearing structure. The bolted connection was merely “for show,” and the entire crossbeam began to move. The worker fell and landed on the equipment below him. Fortunately, he escaped without serious injury.
The subsequent investigation revealed that the problem was not with the harness, the rope, or the worker himself. The error occurred before the work even began—at the moment the anchor point was selected based on intuition rather than verification.
This incident took place many years ago, back when we were just starting out. And it was precisely this event that fundamentally shaped the way we approach safety today.
At heights, it is not enough to “think” that something is safe. We must know it. We must have certainty backed by inspections, documentation, and clearly defined procedures.
That is why we devote so much time today to pre-entry inspections, risk analysis, structural inspections, and the preparation of work procedures and rescue plans. Not because regulations require it, but because we know how easily a seemingly problem-free situation can end differently.
That is precisely why it is not enough for the structure to simply look sturdy. The anchor point must be verified, properly selected, documented, and incorporated into the entire work procedure.
How should PPE be properly inspected before each use?
The inspection of PPE must include a visual and tactile examination of all components before each use. Safety harnesses, ropes, connectors, and other equipment must be inspected according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the organization’s internal rules.
A systematic inspection includes the following steps:
- Harness inspection – check seams, buckles, strap wear, and the functionality of adjustment elements
- Rope inspection – visual and tactile inspection of the sheathing, changes in diameter, markings, and labels
- Connecting elements – inspection of carabiners, locks, safety catches, and moving parts
- Documentation – verification of the validity of inspections and equipment records
- Functional test – testing of all moving parts and fasteners
Inspection of PPE is critical—personal protective equipment must be inspected regularly by a competent or qualified person in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements, but at least at the intervals specified for the given type of equipment and method of use.
What is the pendulum effect, and why is it so dangerous?
The pendulum effect occurs when a fall is not directly aligned with the anchor point. After the fall is arrested, the worker does not move straight down but follows an arc, potentially striking a structure, wall, or other obstacle. The risk increases with the worker’s distance from a properly positioned anchor point.
The pendulum effect poses a hidden danger when working over a vertical drop. When the anchor point is located to the side of the work area, the fall does not follow a straight downward path but follows an arc. The worker may:
- Collide with a structure or obstacle during the pendulum motion
- Suffer additional injuries upon impact with a wall or other object
- Remain suspended in a hard-to-reach position, complicating rescue efforts
- End up outside the scope of a pre-planned rescue procedure
When is working at heights considered hazardous?
According to Czech regulations, working at heights and over open depths is considered hazardous starting at a height of 1.5 meters above ground level or when there is a risk of falling into an open depth. The specific method of protection always depends on the type of workplace, the nature of the work, the risk of falling, and the chosen technical solution.
Specific situations requiring safety measures when working at heights:
| Type of work | Risky situation | Need for protection | Type of protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary work | Risk of falling from a height or into a depth | Yes | Collective protection or PPE |
| Permanent workplaces | Unprotected edges, openings, height differences | Yes | Collective protection takes precedence |
| Práce na žebříku | Working at greater heights or in situations with an increased risk of falling | Depending on the working conditions | Securing, stabilizing, or finding a safer alternative |
| Roof Work | Risk of falling over the edge, through skylights, or through unsecured openings | Yes | Depending on the slope, surface, and specific risk |
Why Do Communication Protocols Fail When Working at Heights?
Communication can fail due to poor radio range, uncoordinated signals, noise, wind, or a lack of procedures for handling communication failures. When working at heights, it is therefore important to determine in advance who will manage communication and how the team will proceed in an unexpected situation.
Common communication problems include:
- Failure to test radios – range and signal quality at the work site are not checked
- Non-standard phrases – each team member uses different commands and signals
- Lack of a backup plan – it is unclear what to do in the event of a radio communication failure
- Unidentified coordinator – it is unclear who is managing communication and making decisions
- Long messages – complicated commands that are difficult to understand in noisy environments
How often must PPE for working at heights be inspected?
PPE for working at heights must be inspected before each use and regularly inspected by a competent or qualified person. The standard interval for periodic inspections is typically no more than 12 months, unless the manufacturer or conditions of use specify stricter requirements. After a fall arrest, the equipment must be taken out of service and professionally assessed.
Inspection and review schedule:
| Type of inspection | Frequency | Who does it | Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-use inspection | Before each use | User | According to internal procedures |
| Periodic inspection | Usually every 12 months at most | Qualified person | Inspection report or record |
| Post-fall inspection | Immediately | Qualified person | Assessment or decommissioning record |
| Replacement due to age | Based on the manufacturer and condition of the equipment | Person in charge | Disposal record |
It is important to remove PPE after a fall—any PPE that absorbed the impact of a fall must be immediately removed from regular use and professionally assessed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
What must a rescue plan for work at heights include?
The rescue plan must define specific procedures, designate responsible persons, and ensure the availability of rescue equipment. It is not enough to rely solely on emergency services—the plan must be practically feasible at the given workplace and must account for realistic scenarios involving a worker’s fall, entrapment, or injury.
Key components of the rescue plan:
- Risk identification – all locations where a fall or entrapment may occur
- Rescue procedures – a description of steps for various scenarios
- Personnel – designation of the rescue team and responsible individuals
- Equipment – list and location of rescue equipment
- Communication plan – contact information for emergency services and the internal team
- Response time – assessment of how quickly a rescue can realistically be initiated and carried out
What mistakes occur when knots are tied incorrectly?
Common mistakes include short slack ends, poorly tightened knots, using the wrong type of knot, or failing to have a second person check the knot. The knot must always be chosen based on the specific situation, the equipment used, and the work procedure.
Critical errors in tying knots:
- Short loose ends – insufficient slack beyond the knot
- Loose knots – the knot is not properly tightened before loading
- Inappropriate knot type – using a knot unsuitable for the specific situation
- Lack of supervision – no second person checking the knot
- Improper loading of connecting elements – for example, cross-loading or side-loading a carabiner outside its intended use
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I continue working if a tool falls from a height?
First, you must stop work, secure the area below the workstation, and check whether anyone has been endangered or any equipment damaged. Falling objects pose a serious risk, so tools must be secured against falling in an appropriate manner when working at heights.
Is it true that a fall from a height of 2 meters can be fatal?
Yes, even a fall from a relatively low height can have serious or fatal consequences, especially if the impact is on the head, neck, or a hard surface. Therefore, the risk of falling must not be underestimated, even for tasks that do not appear extremely dangerous at first glance.
How long can a worker remain suspended in a harness after a fall?
Remaining suspended in a harness after a fall is always a risky situation, and rescue efforts must begin as quickly as possible. Prolonged suspension can lead to health complications, so a functional rescue plan must be part of the work preparation.
Can I make my own anchor point using screws in the wall?
No, improvised anchoring is very risky. Anchor points and anchoring devices must be designed, installed, and used in accordance with relevant standards, the manufacturer’s instructions, and the specific conditions of the workplace.
How many times can I use a rope after a fall?
A rope or other PPE that has arrested a fall must be immediately removed from regular use and professionally inspected. Internal damage may not be visible to the naked eye but can affect safety during subsequent use.
Is it possible to work at heights in the rain?
It depends on the specific conditions, the surface, the type of work, the equipment used, and the risk assessment. Rain, snow, storms, strong winds, or poor visibility can significantly increase the risks involved in the work. If weather conditions pose a safety risk, the work must not be performed or must be suspended.
Do I need special certification to work at heights?
The worker must be trained for the specific type of work at heights, must be familiar with the equipment and procedures used, and must be medically fit. The employer is required to provide appropriate training, equipment, and safe work procedures.
Can mountaineering equipment be used for industrial work at heights?
Not automatically. Equipment for work use must meet the requirements for the specific type of activity, standards, manufacturer’s instructions, and occupational safety protocols. Sports mountaineering equipment may not meet the requirements for industrial use.
Summary
- The most common mistakes when working at heights often arise even before the work begins—due to poor planning, inadequate risk assessment, or an inappropriate choice of fall protection method
- Proper selection and inspection of anchor points significantly reduces the risk of fall protection system failure
- Systematic inspection of PPE before each use and regular professional inspections help prevent serious incidents
- The pendulum effect caused by improper anchor point placement creates additional risks of impact with the structure during a fall
- Communication protocols with clearly defined signals and alternative procedures reduce the risk of misunderstandings in critical situations
- The rescue plan must be practically feasible with available personnel and equipment
- Proper knot tying, inspection of connecting elements, and verification of the entire system before loading are essential for safe work at heights