Course Outline
Introduction to Working at Heights
• Definition of working at height
• Common workplace scenarios involving height risks
• Statistics and impact of fall-related incidents
• Responsibilities of employers and employees
Hazards Associated with Working at Height
• Falls from ladders, scaffolds, and platforms
• Fragile surfaces and roof hazards
• Falling objects and dropped materials
• Environmental hazards such as weather conditions
• Poor access or unstable working platforms
Risk Assessment and Planning
• Identifying working at height hazards
• Assessing risks before work begins
• Planning safe access and work methods
• Importance of supervision and communication
• Developing safe systems of work
Hierarchy of Control for Work at Height
• Avoiding work at height where possible
• Using safer alternatives such as extended tools
• Implementing collective protection measures
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) considerations
• Understanding fall prevention vs fall arrest
Safe Use of Access Equipment:
Ladders and Step Ladders
• Safe ladder selection
• Proper ladder positioning and stability
• Inspection before use
• Safe climbing practices
Working Platforms and Elevated Areas
• Basic scaffold awareness
• Guardrails and edge protection
• Safe use of mobile elevated platforms (awareness level)
Personal Fall Protection Awareness
• Types of fall protection equipment
• Harness and lanyard awareness
• Anchor points and connection systems
• Inspection and maintenance considerations
Safe Work Practices
• Maintaining three points of contact
• Preventing dropped tools and materials
• Housekeeping and workspace organisation
• Communication and supervision
Emergency Procedures
• Responding to fall incidents
• Rescue planning considerations
• Reporting hazards and incidents
• Importance of emergency preparedness
Who the Course Is For
This course is suitable for workers and personnel involved in tasks where work at height may occur, including:
• Construction Workers
• Maintenance Personnel
• Facilities Teams
• Engineers and Technicians
• Supervisors and Site Managers
• Health & Safety Officers
• Contractors working on elevated surfaces
• Workers using ladders or accessing elevated platforms
No previous working at height training is required.
Why This Training Is Important
Risk Reduction
Falls from height remain one of the most serious workplace hazards. Proper awareness significantly reduces accident risk.
Legal Responsibility
Employers must ensure employees are trained and protected when working at height.
Workplace Safety Culture
Training promotes hazard awareness and encourages safe working behaviours.
Compliance
Supports organisational duties under Irish workplace health and safety legislation.
Course Objectives
Participants will:
• Understand the risks associated with working at height
• Recognise common fall hazards
• Identify safe access methods and equipment
• Understand the hierarchy of control for working at height
• Apply safe ladder and platform practices
• Recognise fall protection systems and their purpose
• Support safer work planning and hazard reporting
Course Format & Delivery
Instructor-led training
Includes:
• Practical examples and real workplace scenarios
• Hazard identification discussions
• Safe equipment awareness
• Risk assessment principles
Delivered:
• Onsite at client premises, or
• At designated training venues/Online Webinar
Irish Legislation Supported
Irish Legislation Supported
This training supports employer obligations under:
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 – Part 4: Work at Height
Irish legislation requires employers to:
• Avoid work at height where possible
• Carry out risk assessments
• Provide safe equipment and access systems
• Ensure employees are adequately trained
• Implement fall prevention measures
Why Choose Samson Training
Samson Training delivers professional workplace safety training focused on practical risk awareness and risk reduction.
Our approach emphasises:
• Real workplace hazard recognition
• Clear understanding of responsibilities
• Practical safety behaviours
• Consistent professional instruction
We focus on improving workplace safety awareness — not simply meeting minimum compliance requirements.
FAQ's
Is Working at Heights training required in Ireland?
Irish safety legislation requires employers to ensure employees working at height are properly trained and protected from fall risks.
Who should attend Working at Heights training?
Any worker who uses ladders, works on elevated platforms, rooftops, scaffolds, or performs tasks where a fall risk exists.
Does this course include practical instruction?
Yes. The course includes practical examples and safe work practice guidance relevant to real workplace situations.
Is fall protection equipment covered?
The training provides awareness of fall protection systems including harnesses, anchor points, and safe use considerations.
How often should working at height training be refreshed?
Training should be refreshed periodically or when work conditions, equipment, or job roles change.
