Working at Height Safety: Why Saving Money on Ladders Could Cost You Everything

Justin Janes
Feb 15
2 min read

When it comes to roof repairs, gutter clearing, chimney work or fascia replacement, many property owners are tempted to “just get the ladder out” to save money. However, working at height is one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in the UK construction and home improvement sector.

If you own a property in Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch or the wider Dorset area, this advice could quite literally save your life.

The Real Risks of Working at Height

Falls from height remain one of the biggest causes of workplace injuries under the Working at Height Regulations 2005 in the UK. What many homeowners don’t realise is:

Ladders are designed for short duration, low-risk tasks only
Overreaching causes the majority of ladder falls
Uneven ground dramatically increases instability
Weather conditions (wind, frost, rain) make roofs extremely dangerous
Fragile roof materials can collapse without warning

Even experienced tradespeople rely on proper access systems — not just ladders.

Why Big Jobs Should NEVER Be Done Off Ladders

Trying to complete major roofing repairs, chimney repointing, tile replacement or large gutter clearances from a ladder to “save a few pounds” is a false economy.

A fall from just one storey can result in:

Spinal injuries
Broken limbs
Head trauma
Long-term disability
Or worse

No amount of cost saving is worth that risk. Your life is priceless.

Use the Right Access Equipment for the Job

Professional roofing contractors use purpose-built access systems such as:

Full scaffolding
Mobile scaffold towers
MEWPs (Cherry Pickers)
Edge protection systems
Roof ladders and harness systems

Each job should be assessed to determine the safest method of access. Shortcuts create danger.

Property Owner Safety Advice

If you are considering roof or gutter work at your property:

Ask yourself: Is this task suitable for a ladder?
Consider weather and ground conditions.
Never overreach or work alone.
Avoid stepping onto fragile roof sheets.
If in doubt — seek professional advice.

Remember, professional roofing companies are trained and insured for working at height. Most homeowners are not.

Working at Height in Poole, Bournemouth & Christchurch

At J Janes Roofing, we specialise in safe working at height across Dorset. We supply and operate the correct access equipment for every job, whether that means scaffolding, towers or mechanical platforms.

We would always rather offer honest advice than see someone get injured attempting unsafe DIY roof work.

Need Help or Advice?

If you are unsure whether your planned roof work is safe — don’t take the risk.

📞 Contact J Janes Roofing today for professional guidance, safe access solutions and expert roofing services in Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch and surrounding areas.

Your roof can be repaired.

Your gutters can be cleared.

Your life cannot be replaced.

Stay safe.