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Working at height is obviously dangerous, as evidenced by the annual death toll in construction.

Designers are charged, under health and safety legislation, with taking the risks into account in their designs by eliminating the hazard where they can reasonably do so and by reducing the residual risk, taking everything into account.

In order to make sensible, informed decisions on these matters, designers need to understand what can be done on site (and later, during maintenance and operation). They need to know how safe erection is planned and organised and the role that the various safety systems now available can play.

Designers are often faced with making their design decisions without the benefit of consulting with the contractors who will do the work. They also have to decide what information to provide to contractors. In doing their work they have to cooperate and communicate with others in a proactive manner.

This CPN event has been organised to gather knowledge and explore the various issues involved. It is intended as a contribution to the HSE's 'shattered lives' campaign and it has the support of the Health and Safety Committee of the CIC. As well as the presentations, vigorous discussion is anticipated - both in formal session and informally.