Working at Height Toolbox Talk for Construction Teams

Working at height remains one of the biggest causes of serious injury and death in construction. Workers need clear expectations, the right equipment, proper planning and supervision that matches the level of risk.

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Why working at height is high risk

Falls from height can happen from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, openings, fragile surfaces and incomplete structures. Even relatively short falls can lead to severe injury.

Key hazards to cover in a toolbox talk

Unsafe access equipment
Poor edge protection
Fragile surfaces
Unsecured ladders
Incomplete scaffolds
Poor housekeeping near edges
Weather conditions

Core control measures

Plan the work properly
Use the right access equipment
Inspect equipment before use
Prevent falls with guardrails or other protection
Supervise high-risk work
Stop work if conditions are unsafe

Questions to ask workers

Do you know the access method for todayâ€™s task?
Have you checked the equipment you are using?
Are there any fragile surfaces or unprotected edges?
Do you know who to speak to if conditions change?

How Phoenix supports this

Phoenix can provide practical working at height talks, supporting documents and broader construction safety support that helps teams communicate expectations clearly.

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Get Your 10 Free Safe Systems of Work

Use the free document offer to start the conversation, or contact Phoenix for broader support.

Safety Packs & Downloads

Site Essentials Bundle
Working at Height Pack
Manual Handling Pack

Free Resources

Construction Safety Documents
Safe Systems of Work Template

Why Height Safety Matters

Gravity doesn't give second chances, so getting the basics right is non-negotiable. This page gives you the straight-talk on height safety, helping you ditch the "vanity" advice for the practical steps that actually save lives on-site.

FAQ

Quick answers before someone gets in touch

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What counts as working at height?

Working at height includes any work where a person could fall and injure themselves, including work from ladders, scaffolds, roofs or near openings.

Is a ladder always acceptable for work at height?

Not always. The safest option depends on the task, duration, access requirements and overall level of risk.

What should be covered in a working at height toolbox talk?

A good talk should cover the hazards, access method, equipment checks, edge protection, weather, supervision and what to do if conditions change.