The Electrical Contractor’s Association (ECA) prompted PASMA to develop a low level training course a few years ago. This was in response to safety issues on site. For a long time it was accepted and understood that accidents were just as likely to occur at low level as higher up.

As a PASMA trainer myself, I can comment with accuracy that it is actually more likely to have an accident at low level. This is due in part to a feeling of greater security at low level. Most people if they were asked to walk on an unprotected platform at height, say 40 feet off the ground would be justifiably nervous and take extra precautions to prevent a fall. However, at low level, say just 3 feet off the ground they are more likely to be blasé about the chances of falling. The perception would be that even if they did fall the consequences would not be that great. This couldn’t be further from the truth!

The HSE Shattered Lives campaign has highlighted the dangers of not just working at height but also working at low-level and falls associated with low level work.

It is possible to be seriously injured from a fall from low level. I remember reading about a maintenance fitter who was climbing a ladder in a factory when he slipped and fell off the bottom rung of the ladder. He fell back and cracked his head on the concrete floor. He later died in hospital from his injuries. It could be argued that a scaffold tower would have provided a safer and sturdier platform for work but anybody who has ever worked on site will agree that as good as they are, towers are not always practical. For example a short duration job that may be in an awkward position could be easier off a ladder. As long as operatives are competent and trained to a nationally accredited standard and suitable risk assessments have been carried out than there is no reason to suggest that jobs cannot be done in a safer environment. PASMA Training is recommended for anyone using a scaffold tower. IPAF Training is recommended for anyone using powered access machines and Ladder Training for users of ladders and steps.

Care must be taken however with low level work and this must be given the same respect and care as higher level operations.

A DVD is available from PASMA which highlights the dangers of low level work as well as the specific low level PASMA Training Course, both of which are available from BOSS Training.