Falls from height are the most common cause of fatal injury and the second most common cause of major injury to employees, accounting for around 15% of all such injuries. All industry sectors are exposed to the risks presented by this hazard although the level of incidence varies considerably.
Common factors resulting in a fall from a height include:
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Failure to recognise a problem;
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Failure to provide safe systems of work;
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Failure to ensure that safe systems of work are followed;
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Inadequate information, instruction, training or supervision provided;
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Failure to use appropriate equipment;
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Failure to provide safe plant/equipment.