Preventing falls from height is a priority for the Department of Labour and it expects employers and self-employed contractors with staff working at height to actively manage this significant hazard.

Falls from three metres or less off roofs and from ladders account for most of the serious harm accidents reported to the Department from the construction sector.

More injuries happen on residential building sites than any other workplace in the construction sector.

The Department’s Preventing Falls from Height campaign is part of the Construction Sector Action Plan. It aims to reduce harm by raising awareness about the safe use of ladders and safe working on roofs.

These Preventing Falls from Height web pages give information about how to work safely at height including best practice guidelines and factsheets.

Everyone is responsible for preventing falls on a construction site – the principal, the employer, the self-employed contractor and sub-contractor, and the worker. Find out what you can do to prevent a fall from height.

If you have any questions please email the Department of Labour info@dol.govt.nz or call 0800 20 90 20.