When discussing fall protection the phrase "hierarchy of risk" is often referred to. This is basically a sliding scale of preference, based on risk and practicality, where certain measures to prevent workers falling are deemed less risky and therefore more desirable than others. The key to all safe systems of work, regardless of their position in the hierarchy, is a well trained quality work force. Top of the hierarchy is the installation of permanent fixed access such as walkways or gantries. This is appropriate where a site must be accessed on a regular basis for routine maintenance. This is a preventive measure and has zero training implications. Second in the hierarchy is the installation of temporary working platforms, these include; scaffolding (which has it's own risk implications in the construction phase), cradles, mobile platforms, etc.

Factors such as the duration and nature of the task must be considered when assessing the practicality and cost effectiveness of a major temporary structure. For some tasks, e.g. installation of steelwork, the access method may actually interfere with the smooth running of the job. Apart from the construction of scaffolding the training requirements of these access methods is minimal. Where neither of the above options are practical then the use of personal suspension equipment and work positioning techniques may be adopted. The main consideration is the practicality of carrying out the task in question from suspension equipment.

Often hybrid techniques can be used where a scaffolder who is trained in rope access techniques can construct a minimal platform at the worksite, this can then be accessed using personal suspension equipment and the work carried out from a stable platform with a back-up rope system. The training implications of this type of work technique are the greatest amongst the available methods, however, if correctly carried out with adequate levels of supervision then they can prove extremely safe and efficient. Bottom of the hierarchy is the use of fall arrest equipment to catch a falling worker. In these cases it is often difficult to accurately predict the level of risk to the worker during all stages of the operation. The implications of a fall are very much dependent on the location of the fall, obstructions that may be hit during a fall and the rescue capabilities of the workteam to successfully recover a fallen and injured worker.