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HygieneReady

Working at Height with Practical Assessment: syllabus

United Kingdom version. Last updated 31 October 2026.

5 online modules, each with a real-life scenario and a short quiz, then a final test of 15 questions. Pass with 11 correct answers in 20 minutes. Refresher training is recommended every 3 years.

  1. Module 1. Work at height and the law

    Falls from height are one of the biggest causes of workplace deaths and serious injuries. Many happen from low heights, such as a step ladder, a van or a loading bay.

    What you will learn

    • Explain what counts as work at height.
    • Describe the duties under the work at height rules in the UK.
    • Apply the hierarchy: avoid, prevent, minimise.

    Key points

    • Work at height is any work where a fall could cause injury. There is no minimum height.
    • Avoid, then prevent, then minimise the consequences of a fall.
    • Collective protection comes before personal protection.
    • Never stand on chairs, tables or boxes to reach.

    Based on: Work at Height Regulations 2005; Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; HSE guidance INDG401 and INDG455 (ladders).

  2. Module 2. Ladders and step ladders

    Ladders and step ladders are useful for short, simple jobs, but they cause many falls when used wrongly.

    What you will learn

    • Decide when a ladder is suitable.
    • Check a ladder before use.
    • Set up and use ladders and step ladders safely.

    Key points

    • Ladders are for short, low-risk jobs with three points of contact.
    • Check stiles, feet, rungs, locks and platform before every use.
    • Firm level ground; 1 in 4 for leaning ladders; step ladders fully open and locked.
    • Do not overreach, do not stand on the top steps, and carry only light items.

    Based on: Work at Height Regulations 2005; Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; HSE guidance INDG401 and INDG455 (ladders).

  3. Module 3. Platforms, edges, fragile surfaces and openings

    For longer or more complex work, platforms with guardrails are safer than ladders. Edges, fragile roofs and openings need special care.

    What you will learn

    • Describe safe use of mobile towers and MEWPs.
    • Recognise fragile surfaces and openings.
    • Know the rules for edges and loading areas.

    Key points

    • Use podium steps or towers for longer work; only trained people build towers or use MEWPs.
    • Never walk on fragile surfaces; assume they are fragile until confirmed.
    • Guard edges and openings, including cellar hatches.
    • Stop outdoor work at height in bad weather.

    Based on: Work at Height Regulations 2005; Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; HSE guidance INDG401 and INDG455 (ladders).

  4. Module 4. Fall protection: harnesses, lanyards and rescue

    When falls cannot be prevented, personal fall protection reduces the consequences. It only works if it is the right type, checked, fitted and attached correctly.

    What you will learn

    • Explain the difference between work restraint and fall arrest.
    • Inspect and fit a full body harness.
    • Explain why a rescue plan is needed.

    Key points

    • Work restraint (no fall) is better than fall arrest.
    • A system needs a suitable anchor, connector and full body harness, with enough clearance.
    • Check the harness before every use; withdraw anything damaged or with a deployed indicator.
    • Fit snugly; have a rescue plan before starting.

    Based on: Work at Height Regulations 2005; Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; HSE guidance INDG401 and INDG455 (ladders).

  5. Module 5. Practical assessment: your harness video

    To finish, you show that you can inspect and fit a full body harness correctly. You do this on the ground, and you upload a short video for review.

    What you will learn

    • Carry out and show a harness pre-use inspection.
    • Fit and adjust a harness correctly on camera.
    • Understand how the video is reviewed.

    Key points

    • Ground level only; never attach or climb on camera.
    • Show label, inspection, fitting and fit checks.
    • Explain restraint, arrest and rescue.
    • Your employer decides whether you are competent for the work.

    Based on: Work at Height Regulations 2005; Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; HSE guidance INDG401 and INDG455 (ladders).

HygieneReady certificates confirm completion of training. They are not a regulated qualification. Definitions of the key terms are in the glossary.