WAHR Inspections
Work at Height Regulations (WAHR) Inspections
Safe Lee Inspection & Consultancy provides inspections of work at height equipment in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
Based in Manchester, we carry out WAHR inspections for businesses across the North West and support multi site clients throughout the UK. Inspections are completed by a competent person, with clear reports issued following inspection.
What Is WAHR?
WAHR refers to the Work at Height Regulations 2005. These regulations are designed to prevent injury and death caused by falls from height, which remain one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities in the UK.
WAHR applies to any work activity where a person could fall and be injured, regardless of height or industry.
Who Needs WAHR Inspections?
WAHR applies to all employers and duty holders where work at height equipment is provided for use at work.
This includes businesses operating in:
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Construction
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Hire and access equipment
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Manufacturing and engineering
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Property maintenance and services
If equipment is used to access, work at, or protect against falls from height, it must be suitable, maintained, and inspected.
What Equipment Is Covered Under WAHR?
WAHR covers a wide range of work at height equipment and systems, including:
Access Equipment
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Towers and scaffold systems
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Ladders and step ladders
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Mobile access platforms
Mobile Elevated Work Platforms
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MEWPs including boom and scissor lifts
These are also subject to LOLER for thorough examination.
Personal Fall Protection Equipment
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Harnesses
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Lanyards
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Ropes and connectors
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Anchorage and fall arrest systems
Both collective protection and personal protective systems fall within the scope of WAHR.
WAHR Inspection and
Examination Requirements
WAHR requires that work at height equipment is inspected at appropriate intervals to ensure it remains safe.
Typical requirements include:
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Pre-use checks before each use
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Formal inspections at intervals determined by risk and manufacturer guidance
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Additional inspections following damage, modification, or adverse conditions
Certain equipment has specific inspection requirements, such as:
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Scaffolding, which must be inspected before first use, after alteration, and at least every 7 days while in use
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Personal fall protection equipment, which requires formal examination at intervals typically ranging from 6 to 12 months
Can You Inspect Your Own WAHR Equipment?
Employers may inspect their own work at height equipment under WAHR, provided inspections are carried out by a competent person.
Competence depends on the type of equipment involved. Simple equipment such as ladders may be inspected internally where appropriate training is in place. More complex systems, such as scaffolding or fall arrest systems, often require inspection by a suitably trained or certified inspector.
Where independence or specialist knowledge is required, an external competent person should be appointed.
Competent Person Inspections and Reporting
WAHR inspections are carried out by a competent person with the knowledge and experience required to identify defects and assess whether equipment remains safe to use.
Following inspection, a clear report is issued detailing the condition of the equipment and any actions required to maintain compliance.
Inspection records must be retained until the next inspection and made available if requested.
WAHR Inspection FAQs
Does WAHR require equipment inspections?
Yes. WAHR requires that equipment used for work at height is inspected at appropriate intervals to ensure it remains safe.
How often does work at height equipment need to be inspected?
Inspection frequency depends on equipment type, use, and manufacturer guidance. Some equipment, such as scaffolding, has defined inspection intervals.
Are MEWPs covered under WAHR?
Yes. MEWPs are covered under WAHR and are also subject to LOLER for thorough examination.
Can employees inspect ladders and harnesses themselves?
Yes, provided they are trained and competent to identify defects and assess safety.
What documentation is provided after inspection?
A report is issued detailing inspection findings and any actions required.