Working at heights presents significant risks to health and safety. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), it includes any work where a fall could result in injury, such as on ladders, scaffolding, flat roofs, or near floor openings.
To mitigate risk and remain compliant, employers must ensure that employees undergo a Working at Heights Medical assessment.
At Pathways Occupational Health, we provide Working at Heights Medicals tailored to high-risk roles, ensuring individuals are physically and mentally fit to perform duties safely at height.
What Is a Working at Heights Medical?
A Working at Heights Medical is a structured occupational health assessment designed to evaluate an employee’s fitness to perform tasks at height. It helps identify any underlying medical conditions, medications, or limitations that could compromise safety.
Our assessments are aligned with HSE best practices and provide peace of mind for both employers and employees by reducing the risk of falls, injuries, and legal liabilities.
Who Needs a Working at Heights Medical?
Any employee whose job involves the risk of falling from height should complete a Working at Heights Medical, especially if working in:
- Construction
- Engineering
- Telecoms
- Utilities
- Industrial maintenanceBuilding inspection
Common Roles That Require a Working at Heights Medical:
- Scaffolders
- Crane operators
- Industrial abseilers
- Telecommunications engineers
- Electricians & plumbers
- Riggers and rope access workers
- Alarm and CCTV installers
- Roofing contractors
- Wind turbine engineers
- Field service technicians
Examples of Working at Height (Per HSE):
- Working on ladders, platforms, or scaffolding
- Accessing flat or sloped roofs
- Working near fragile surfaces or skylights
- Tasks near floor openings, trenches, or mezzanines
- Operations involving man baskets or cherry pickers
What’s Included in a Working at Heights Medical?
At Pathways Occupational Health, our comprehensive Working at Heights Medicals include the following:
General Health Check:
Height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI)
Blood pressure and pulse rate
Urinalysis:
Screens for blood, glucose, protein, and other abnormalities
Hearing Test (Audiometry):
Ensures workers can detect warning sounds in noisy environments
Spirometry (Lung Function Test):
Measures lung capacity and airflow for respiratory fitness
Vision Test:
Assesses visual acuity, colour vision, and peripheral awareness
Musculoskeletal Assessment:
Checks joint mobility, flexibility, and range of motion
Medical History Review:
Covers physical health, medications, mental health, and lifestyle
Grip Strength Test:
Evaluates hand and arm strength, crucial for climbing and balance
Cardiovascular Fitness Test (Chester Step Test):
Assesses aerobic capacity under physical stress
Mental Health Screening:
Identifies any psychological conditions that may affect safety
Drug & Alcohol Testing (If Required):
Conducted in line with company policies
Clinical Review:
A consultation with an Occupational Health Nurse
Final sign-off by an HSE-approved Occupational Health Physician
How Long Does the Medical Take?
Approximate Duration: 45 minutes
All assessments are designed to be efficient while providing a thorough fitness-for-work evaluation.
What Happens After the Medical?
Once complete:
The employee receives a summary of their assessment
The employer receives a “Fitness for Work” Certificate
Certificates are typically valid for 12 months, depending on company policy and individual risk factors
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Please bring the following to your Working at Heights Medical:
- Valid Photo ID (passport or driver’s licence)
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses, including solution
- Hearing aids (if used)
- Current medications list
- Any relevant medical documentation
What Should You Wear?
We recommend wearing:
Comfortable clothing
Activewear or trainers
This helps ensure ease of movement during the mobility and fitness assessments.
Why Choose Pathways Occupational Health?
With a reputation for clinical excellence, fast turnaround, and nationwide coverage, Pathways Occupational Health is a trusted provider of Working at Heights Medicals across the UK.
Why Clients Trust Us:
- HSE-compliant assessments by trained professionals
- UK-wide mobile and clinic-based services
- Rapid results and digital certificate delivery
- Experienced team of occupational health nurses and physicians
- Flexible appointment booking to minimise operational downtime
Book a Working at Heights Medical Today
Don’t leave safety to chance. Ensure your team is fit, compliant, and protected with a Working at Heights Medical from Pathways Occupational Health.
Contact Pathways to book your Working at Heights Medical
Protect Your People. Comply with HSE. Reduce Risk.
Partner with Pathways Occupational Health for trusted Working at Heights Medicals.