One mistake at height can be your last. Work Smart, Work Safe.
Working at height is one of the most dangerous activities on any job site. Every decision you make—big or small—can be life-changing for you and those around you. When it comes to working at height, most people focus on accidents and injuries. But what often slips under the radar are the near misses—those moments when something almost went wrong but didn’t. On our travels, we see near misses more often than you might imagine. Some are the result of underestimating fall risks—like using an unsecured ladder for a quick job. Others come from misusing safety equipment or PPE—such as clipping a harness to the wrong anchorage point or working with a damaged lanyard. Although no immediate harm occurs, these situations are warning signs. They show us that the gap between “safe” and “serious injury” can be frighteningly small.
No Second Chances with a Fall from Height
To prevent near misses and serious incidents, make height safety a daily habit:
Plan before you climb – assess risks, check permits, and confirm safe access.
Use the right equipment – harnesses, guardrails, scaffolds, and ladders must be fit for purpose and inspected.
Stay alert – avoid shortcuts, secure your tools, and maintain three points of contact.
Look out for others – check your workmate’s gear and speak up if you see unsafe practices.
Case Study: A Close Call on the Scaffold
Recently, on one of our visits, a worker was spotted climbing onto a scaffold platform without securing the mid-rails that had been temporarily removed. Nothing happened in that moment—but had he slipped or lost his balance, the fall could easily have resulted in serious injury.
This near miss was reported, investigated, and corrective measures were taken immediately. The lesson? It only takes one overlooked step for a near miss to become an accident.
Why Near Misses Matter
They reveal blind spots in planning, systems, or behavior. They show where complacency is creeping in. They give us a free chance to learn—before someone pays the price.
What You Can Do
Report near misses—don’t shrug them off. Think critically—ask yourself, “What could have gone wrong?” Share learnings—what you report today could save a co-worker tomorrow.
Final Word
Near misses are not “lucky escapes”—they are red flags. Each one is a reminder that working at height leaves no room for error. By treating near misses seriously, we strengthen our safety culture and help ensure that everyone goes home safely, every day.