From 18 to 22 May 2026, the construction industry will once again come together to support No Falls Week – a campaign dedicated to raising awareness around safe working at height and preventing life-changing incidents on site.
The campaign, led by the No Falls Foundation, highlights an issue that continues to affect every part of the construction sector and despite years of guidance, training, and enforcement activity, falls from height remain the leading cause of fatal injuries within construction.
You can find campaign resources, guidance, and further information on the official No Falls Week website, along with the latest campaign press release:
🔗 No Falls Week 2026
🔗 No Falls Week 2026 Press Release
Falls From Height Remain Construction’s Biggest Killer
According to recent HSE construction statistics, falls from height were responsible for more than half (53%) of all construction worker fatalities during 2024–2025.
Many of these incidents involve relatively routine tasks like roof work, ladder use, scaffolding, maintenance and refurbishment works, stairwells and openings and fragile surfaces.
In many cases, the causes are familiar:
The reality is that many falls from height are preventable.
No Falls Week serves as an important reminder that effective work at height safety requires more than paperwork alone and relies on proper planning, competent workers, clear communication, and a proactive safety culture across every project.
Why the Latest RIDDOR Consultation Matters
Alongside No Falls Week, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR).
RIDDOR is the legislation covering the reporting of workplace injuries, dangerous occurences, occupational diseases and specified incidents and near misses.
The consultation aims to improve how workplace incidents are reported while reducing unnecessary administrative burdens on businesses. For construction companies, accurate reporting is essential. When incidents, dangerous occurrences, and near misses are properly reported and investigated, businesses can identify trends, improve controls, and prevent similar accidents from happening again. This is particularly important when it comes to falls from height, where lessons learned from previous incidents can directly help save lives.
You can review the consultation and submit feedback here:
The consultation closes on 30 June 2026.
Recent HSE Enforcement Shows the Risks Remain
Recent HSE enforcement activity continues to highlight the serious consequences of inadequate work at height controls.
One recent prosecution involved a Staffordshire construction company and its director after a worker suffered serious injuries following a fall through a stairwell opening.
Cases like this reinforce the importance of ensuring that floor openings are protected, temporary works are properly planned and edge protection is maintained. It is also vital that workers understand site risks and supervision remains effective throughout the project.
Further guidance on assessing and managing work at height risks is available via the HSE website:
What Construction Businesses Should Focus on During No Falls Week
No Falls Week provides an excellent opportunity for contractors and duty holders to review current safety arrangements and reinforce safe working practices.
Practical actions could include:
- reviewing work at height risk assessments and RAMS
- inspecting ladders, scaffolds, and access equipment
- checking edge protection and temporary works
- carrying out toolbox talks
- refreshing worker training
- improving supervision arrangements
- encouraging workforce engagement around site safety
No Falls Week should not be viewed as a one-week exercise and even small improvements can help reduce the likelihood of serious incidents. Good safety standards come from consistent daily practices and ongoing workforce involvement.
Creating a Safer Industry
Falls from height continue to have devastating consequences for workers, families, and businesses across the construction industry. Campaigns like No Falls Week play an vital role in keeping the conversation going and reminding the industry that prevention remains possible through planning, communication, training, and leadership.
At the same time, the latest HSE consultations provide an opportunity for construction businesses and health and safety professionals to help shape future regulations and improve how lessons are learned from workplace incidents. By focusing on proactive safety management and continuous improvement, the industry can continue working toward safer construction environments for everyone.
You can also read our related blog on preventing workplace falls and improving work at height safety: 🔗 Preventing Workplace Falls: How Simple Safety Measures Can Protect Lives
How Safety CDM can Support Safer Construction Projects
Contact us today to see how we can support your project and help create safer construction environments.
