What is considered work at heights?
Work at heights refers to any activity performed at 2 meters or more above ground level or on a lower level where there is a risk of falling. This threshold is set by the RD 1627/1997 for construction projects and the RD 2177/2004 for temporary work at heights.
A fall from a height is the the leading cause of work-related deaths in the construction industry in Spain. Knowing when the regulations apply and what protections are required is not just a legal obligation—it’s what prevents a workday from ending in tragedy.
Regulations Governing Work at Heights
Three laws form the legal framework in Spain: the RD 1627/1997 (minimum requirements for construction sites, protection against falls from heights of 2 meters or more), the RD 1215/1997 (safety requirements for work equipment: scaffolding and platforms) and the RD 2177/2004 (temporary work at heights, ladders, and scaffolding). All of these fall under the Law 31/1995 of PRL, which requires always apply collective protection over individual protection.
Collective protection first: guardrails, safety nets, and platforms
Before resorting to PPE, regulations require that all collective measures be exhausted: railing (at least 90 cm with a 15 cm baseboard), networks for openings or the perimeter of a floor slab, platforms with perimeter security and mating holes in the floor or roof. PPE is used only when these measures are not feasible or do not eliminate the residual risk.
Personal Protective Equipment Against Falls
Harnesses and energy absorbers
The full-body fall-arrest harness (EN 361) must always be connected to an energy absorber (EN 355) that limits the impact to 6 kN. The system is completed with a connector (EN 362) and a lanyard (EN 354) or a retractable device (EN 360), all of which bear the CE mark and are compatible with one another.
Anchor points and lifelines
The anchor points (EN 795) must withstand a minimum of 10 kN per worker. The horizontal lifelines (EN 353-2 / EN 795 Class C) allow for movement with continuous protection. You must always calculate the free fall distance before installing the system.
Inspection and Service Life
Review before each use by the employee and annual per qualified person (EN 365). Any harness that has arrested a fall must be removed immediately. Maximum service life of textile components: 10 years from the manufacturing process.
Scaffolding, Ladders, and Elevating Platforms: Risks and Requirements
The tubular scaffolding Over 6 meters in height require an installation plan prepared by a qualified person (RD 2177/2004). The ladders are intended only for occasional access: 1 meter above the access level, anchored at the top, with a 65°–75° incline. The PEMP require operator training and a harness connected to the basket.
Major Risks and Causes of Accidents at Height
Falls from heights account for between 20 % and 30 % of fatal accidents in construction (MYTHS). Most common causes: failure to use a safety harness or improper use of one, incomplete guardrails, improperly assembled scaffolding, and lack of specific training.
Mandatory Training for Working at Heights
The General Agreement for the Construction Sector requires the Professional Construction Card (TPC) with safety training specific to each trade. Royal Decree 1627/1997 requires contractors to ensure that all workers at risk of falling have received specific training and information.
Educa PHAROS Training on Occupational Risk Prevention
- Occupational Safety and Health in Construction
- ISO 45001: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
Rescue and Emergency Plan for Work at Heights
Before beginning work at heights, a rescue procedure must be in place. A worker suspended in the air may suffer from harness syndrome (orthostatic syncope) within a few minutes. The plan specifies who takes action, what resources are used, and how coordination with external emergency services is handled. It is part of the Health and Safety Plan and must be rehearsed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Working at Heights
At what height is a harness required?
For construction projects, Royal Decree 1627/1997 sets the limit at 2 meters the threshold. A safety harness is required when collective protection does not eliminate the residual risk.
How long does the training for working at heights last?
There is no single established duration. The General Agreement sets forth the basic occupational safety and health training at 8:00 p.m.; Specific training for working at heights is provided depending on the position.
How often should the harness be inspected?
Before each use and at least once a year by a qualified person (EN 365). Any harness that has arrested a fall must be taken out of service immediately.
