Heights
Employers have a duty of care to ensure that workers are fit to use the equipment that they are provided with when working at heights. Employees or contractors should report any issues (including health issues) that may affect their safety or the safety of others. Some of the human factors that would prevent them from using a ladder safely are:
- Recurring dizziness
- Epilepsy
- Psychiatric conditions (inc fear of heights)
- Heart conditions
- Severe lung conditions
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Significant impaired joint function
- Medication that recommends you do not operate machinery could also be a problem
Any individual with a health issue that may impact on their fitness to use a ladder or work at heights should refer themselves, or may be referred by their manager, to the Occupational Health Service for assessment before commencing such work for the University.