Plan access and fall prevention for brickwork, roofing, repairs and other elevated jobs.
Applies to: Great Britain construction work; task-specific legal duties and controls apply.
Last checked: 16 October 2026
Key points
• HSE says work at height must be properly planned, supervised and carried out by competent people.
• Avoid work at height where practicable and prevent falls with suitable equipment.
• Do not use a ladder as the default platform for prolonged or heavy masonry tasks.
Put the advice to work in your business
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Start with the job and access
Consider height, duration, loading, weather, surface stability, materials handling and people below. Decide whether a properly designed scaffold, tower or alternative is suitable.
Controls to check
• Safe access and working platforms with suitable edge protection.
• Inspection, loading limits and competent erection or alteration.
• Protection from falling objects and exclusion of the area below.
• How materials and tools are lifted and handled.
• Rescue and emergency arrangements relevant to the task.
Ladders are limited
HSE guidance reserves ladders and stepladders for light work of short duration where justified by risk assessment. Bricklaying with substantial materials or prolonged work normally needs a more suitable working platform.
Official sources
Use these official sources for the current detail that applies to your job, contract or location.
BuildPair provides general information and signposting, not legal, structural, electrical, gas or building-control approval. Requirements can change and the right answer depends on the work, contract, location and facts.
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