A fall from height is a serious medical emergency and a leading cause of severe injury and death in the workplace. Injuries may not always be obvious, and even a short fall can result in life-threatening trauma.

Knowing how to respond safely and correctly can make a critical difference.

Why Falls from Height Are So Dangerous

A fall from height can cause:

• Head and brain injuries
• Spinal and neck injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Fractures and crush injuries
• Shock

The casualty may appear alert initially, but symptoms can worsen rapidly.

Signs and Symptoms After a Fall from Height

• Pain in the head, neck, back, or limbs
• Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
• Confusion, drowsiness, or altered behaviour
• Visible bleeding or deformity
• Difficulty moving or numbness
• Shortness of breath
• Pale, cold, or clammy skin
• Signs of shock

What To Do if Someone Falls from Height

1. Call 999 immediately
   • Always treat falls from height as a medical emergency
2. Ensure scene safety
   • Check for ongoing hazards (unstable structures, vehicles, overhead risks)
3. Do NOT move the casualty
   • Unless they are in immediate danger
   • Assume a spinal injury
4. Reassure and keep them still
   • Support the head and neck in the position found
   • Encourage them not to move
5. Control any bleeding
   • Apply direct pressure if safe to do so
   • Do not press on suspected fractures or spinal injuries
6. Treat for shock
   • Keep them warm
   • Monitor breathing and responsiveness
7. Monitor continuously
   • Be prepared to start CPR if breathing stops
8. Do not give food or drink

Special Considerations

• Head injuries:
  • Watch for vomiting, worsening headache, confusion, or unequal pupils
• Spinal injuries:
  • Tingling, numbness, weakness, or inability to move limbs
• Multiple casualties:
  • Prioritise those who are unresponsive or bleeding heavily

When to Call 999

Always.
Any fall from height — ladders, scaffolding, roofs, vehicles, mezzanines, or loading areas — requires emergency medical assessment.

Learn More

At DAC Education, we cover falls from height, trauma management, and catastrophic bleeding as part of our HSE-compliant, accredited first aid and health & safety training.

We deliver hands-on courses in Suffolk and across the UK, giving learners the confidence to act safely and decisively during serious workplace incidents.

Disclaimer:
This article provides general first aid guidance only. It does not replace professional medical care. Always seek emergency help following a fall from height.