The research, carried out by Building Safety Group (BSG), combined the results of more than 20,000 site inspections conducted during 2016.
While Working at Height accounted for 19% of all breaches recorded, Dust/Fumes was the second highest significant non-compliance (5%).
Recent statistics from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) back up the report's findings. Since 2012, 97 construction workers have been killed in falls from height, accounting for 45% of all fatal injuries. In addition, they are responsible for 33% of all non-fatal injuries, including 11% of injuries which cause more than seven days of absence. The three main sources of falls from height injuries and fatalities are fragile roof lights, scaffolding and ladders.
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Chris Chapman, BSG's Technical Manager said more can be done to ensure work is "properly planned, supervised and conducted by qualified workers who have the required skills for the task in hand".
"To significantly reduce the dangers of working at height, construction companies should always try to complete as much work as possible from the ground, ensure safe access and egress and importantly, make certain that any equipment used is suitable, stable and strong enough for the job."
(LM/MH)
