Preventing falls through windows
Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of injury in residential, commercial and care settings. One overlooked risk is falling through open or unguarded windows. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently conducted new research to evaluate the effectiveness of guarding and improve safety standards.
Scope of the research
The HSE study aimed to provide an evidence-based foundation for improving fall prevention measures around window openings. It included:
- Scientific literature review: Analysing existing studies on window safety and fall risks
- Review of current regulations: Assessing how well Building Regulations address the risks
- Evaluation of guidance: Reviewing recommendations from existing safety documents
- Guarding tests: Analysing the effectiveness of various guard heights and designs
Key findings
- Guard heights of 1100mm are effective at protecting over 99% of the adult UK population from falls through windows.
- Guard heights of 800mm would protect less than 1% of the population — indicating they are inadequate.
- There is no evidence to support different guard height requirements based on the number of storeys in a building.
Implications for building design and refurbishment
These findings strengthen the case for a consistent national standard for guarding heights, particularly in buildings accessed by vulnerable people — such as hospitals, care homes and schools.
Designers, building owners and dutyholders should consider adopting the 1100mm standard as best practice, regardless of minimum legal requirements.
Need advice on guarding or fall protection?
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