What are the regulations for working at height?

Working at height includes any work where a person could fall and be injured. It is regulated to help prevent serious accidents.

AC 022 26
AC 022 26

What are the regulations for working at height?

Working at height includes any work where a person could fall and be injured. It is regulated to help prevent serious accidents.

Tree work often involves working at height and must be properly planned and managed.

Key principles

Work at height should:

  • Be avoided where possible
  • Use the safest method available
  • Be properly planned, supervised, and carried out by trained people

Legal framework

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to tree work and require employers and contractors to control risks.

What this means in practice

  • Suitable equipment must be used
  • Workers must be competent and trained
  • Equipment must be inspected

Next steps 

  • HSE guidance on working at height
  • Find an ARB Approved Contractor 
  • Arboricultural Association training and guidance