What is BS 8560 about?
BS 8560 is a British standard on safe work at height during the design of buildings.
BS 8560 gives recommendations for incorporating safe work at height into the design of buildings during the design process.
BS 8560 gives recommendations for designers on working safely at height and how to take this into account throughout the design process with specific focus on the early strategic and conceptual stages. It also takes into account the requirements of those who are involved in construction, inspection, cleaning and maintenance.
Note: The recommendations in BS 8560 can also be applied to other structures BS 8560 does not give designers prescriptive solutions for work at height but does provide useful guidance to help them manage the process.
Who is BS 8560 for?
BS 8560 on safe work at height during the design of buildings is useful for: 
- Designers
- Constructors
Why should you use BS 8560?
Newbuild and refurbishment projects require people to work at height over the lifespan of a building in order to construct, clean, maintain and repair it. By its nature, work at height is hazardous and presents the risk of a fall. Falls from height account for a significant proportion of fatalities and serious injuries experienced during construction and maintenance. As a significant safety risk, it is important that everyone, including designers, who work within the construction industry give it the appropriate attention.
BS 8560 encourages designers to assess, as early as possible in the design process, how work at height can be minimized, and where required the provision of practical, efficient, cost-effective solutions for the safety of those who work at height.
The high risk of a fall can be minimized using BS 8560 which will thus increase safety and trust in your organization
