Falls from heights are the second leading cause of fatal accidents after traffic accidents. The risk of falling is characterized by a high severity rate. It is present when working at heights (falling over the edge, falling through materials, etc.) or working close to uneven surfaces (wells, trenches, etc.).
This risk has been identified for a very long time. Awareness of its seriousness is a function of professional situations and height.
A fall from a height of several metres has significant consequences, so the severity of the fall is well known to those involved. On the other hand, a fall from a low height, generally less than three meters, does not present the same level of risk awareness.