WAHR 2005: Common Myths & Misconceptions

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (WAHR) establish requirements for preventing falls and maintaining equipment safety. However, misunderstandings surrounding inspection requirements, equipment classifications and legal responsibilities remain common.

Here are six common misconceptions and what the regulations and relevant guidance actually say.

WAHR 2005: Common Myths & Misconceptions.

1. Work at height only applies above 2 metres.

Myth: WAHR only applies when working more than 2 metres above ground level.

Fact: There is no minimum height threshold. Under WAHR Regulation 2, work at height includes situations where someone could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury, including from ladders, platforms or into excavations.

The 2-metre threshold relates to specific construction working-platform inspection requirements, not the general application of WAHR.

2. Portable ladders are inspected under PUWER.

Myth: Ladders and stepladders require inspections under PUWER Regulation 6.

Fact: PUWER Regulation 6(5)(f) excludes equipment subject to WAHR Regulation 12 inspection requirements.

Ladders require appropriate pre-use checks and recorded detailed visual inspections at suitable intervals, following HSE guidance. Other applicable PUWER duties remain relevant.

3. All work-at-height equipment requires annual inspection.

Myth: Ladders, harnesses, guardrails and anchorage systems all require inspection every 12 months.

Fact: WAHR does not establish a universal annual inspection interval. Frequency depends on equipment type, deterioration risks, operating conditions, system design, relevant guidance and standards.

HSE INDG367 recommends detailed inspections of certain fall-arrest equipment at least every six months, with more frequent inspections in demanding conditions. Certain construction working platforms require inspections at intervals not exceeding seven days.

4. Anchorage systems only need a visual inspection or pull-test.

Myth: Anchorage systems can be declared safe following a visual inspection or successful pull test.

Fact: BS 7883:2019 recommends inspection in accordance with the system technical file, examination scheme and manufacturer's instructions, including consideration of concealed fixings and supporting structures.

Visual inspection or pull testing alone cannot verify concealed installation details. Where adequate supporting documentation is unavailable, further investigation or an installation review may be necessary.

5. Harnesses, lanyards and ropes fall under LOLER.

Myth: Personal fall-protection equipment automatically requires LOLER thorough examination.

Fact: Equipment used solely for fall arrest or restraint is generally outside LOLER and subject to applicable inspection requirements under WAHR Regulation 12.

However, equipment used for lifting or lowering people, including certain rope-access and arboricultural climbing systems, may fall under LOLER. Its intended function determines the applicable requirements.

6. Pre-use checks replace formal inspections.

Myth: Equipment does not require periodic inspection when users check it before each shift.

Fact: Pre-use checks identify obvious damage before use, while periodic inspections provide a more detailed assessment by a competent person.

Where formal inspections are required under WAHR Regulation 12, routine user checks do not replace them. Both contribute to maintaining equipment safety.

Further Information

For more information, read our What is WAHR 2005? A Guide to Work at Height Regulations article.

Additional guidance is available in HSE INDG401 and INDG367 or can be attained from the Work At Height Safety Association (WAHSA) and The Ladder Association.

Steadfast Compliance Ltd provides independent inspections of selected work-at-height equipment across Greater Manchester and the North West.

Helping Businesses. Protecting People.