Working at height is one of the most common causes of serious injury and death on job sites across the UK. While regulations and safety standards have improved, many accidents still happen because of basic — and avoidable — mistakes.
Whether you’re a contractor, facilities manager, decorator, or maintenance worker, your safety depends on knowing the risks and using the right equipment.
Skipping a Risk Assessment
Before any job begins, the site needs to be assessed. But many people skip this step — often out of habit or in the name of saving time. Unfortunately, that small oversight can lead to serious consequences.
Every environment is different. Uneven floors, overhead obstructions, poor lighting, or even pedestrian footfall can introduce new hazards. A quick risk assessment helps you plan the safest approach and choose the right equipment.
Tip: use a simple, repeatable checklist before starting any task that involves height. Don’t just assume it’ll be the same as last time.
Using the Wrong Access Equipment
With any sort of working at height choosing the right access equipment and undertaking PASMA training is essential. Many people default to using ladders when a mobile access tower or work platform would be safer and more stable.
If you’re working at height for more than a few minutes — especially on uneven ground or indoors — mobile scaffold towers offer better support. For example, GRP towers are a safer choice in electrical environments because they’re non-conductive.
The right tool for the job reduces the risk of falls and increases efficiency. If you’re unsure which equipment is best, consult a professional — or contact a reputable hire company.
Failing to Secure the Tower or Platform
You’d be surprised how many workers climb an unsecured tower. Mobile access towers have castors that need to be locked before use. If brakes aren’t engaged — or if outriggers aren’t fitted — the tower can move or tip.
On uneven ground, stabilisers are crucial. If the tower feels wobbly or shifts under load, it’s not safe. Always inspect the base. Make sure it’s on firm, level ground and that the locking mechanisms are fully engaged before climbing.
Working in Bad Weather or Poor Conditions
Outdoor conditions are unpredictable. Even a mild breeze can make a tall tower unstable. Wet weather can create slippery surfaces, both on the ground and the platform. Indoors, clutter, loose wiring, or dusty floors can also increase the risk of slips or falls.
Don’t take shortcuts. If conditions aren’t right — pause. Check your risk assessment again. It’s better to delay than to deal with an avoidable accident.
Overloading the Platform
Access towers and work platforms have clearly marked Safe Working Loads (SWL). Exceeding them can damage the tower, reduce stability, or even lead to collapse.
It’s not just about the weight of workers — you have to factor in tools, materials, and any equipment you’re using at height. Keep it light. Organise your tools. If you need more gear than the platform can handle, lift it up in stages or use a hoist.
Ignoring Training Requirements
Access towers may look easy to use — but improper setup or use can be extremely dangerous. That’s why training is essential. And also important to keep on the side of any regulations.
PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association) sets the UK standard for mobile access tower safety. A certified PASMA course teaches you how to safely assemble, use, move, and dismantle towers. It also covers inspection and regulations.
Many reputable providers offer courses across the UK, including tower hire companies that also support training.
Allowing untrained personnel to operate towers can result in fines, injuries, and shutdowns. Invest in training. It pays off in more ways than one.
A quick search for a PASMA course near me can connect you with certified providers who’ll give you the confidence and knowledge to work safely.
Poor Tower Maintenance and Inspection
Even high-quality equipment can become unsafe if it’s not inspected regularly. Braces, locking pins, stabilisers, and platforms can wear down over time. If you own your towers, regular maintenance is critical.
But if you’re hiring access equipment, make sure the provider carries out proper inspections and supplies equipment that meets all safety standards. At Access Towers Group, every piece of kit is checked before it goes out — and again upon return.
Never use a tower with missing components or visible damage. If in doubt, don’t use it.
Final Thoughts
Working at height will always carry risks. But those risks are manageable.
To stay safe, always carry out a risk assessment, choose the right equipment, secure your platform, and ensure everyone on site is trained. If you haven’t taken a PASMA course, you’re risking legal consequences.
