Falling into Workplace Safety

OSHA reports that falls are the most frequent cause of fatalities at
construction sites and annually account for one of every three
construction-related deaths. Data provided by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics states there were at least 442 construction worker
fatalities during 2007 as a result from falls. This is a staggering
statistic. Contractors have to emphasize the importance of fall
protection standards and fall protection systems. Fall hazardsare
always a main focus of OSHA inspectors.

Frequently issued fall protection citations include:

 No guard rails at open sided floors

 Floor opening not covered or guarded
 Wall openings not guarded
 Wire rope guard rails deflecting more than 3 inches
The best plan of action for preventing or altogether eliminating
hazardous falls includes:

 Eliminating the need to work off of the ground (ideal)

 Fall prevention systems
 Fall arrest systems
 Warning lines
 Safety monitoring
 Administration of fall protection policies
Major aspects of OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926 Subpart M
 Fall protection must be in place for work areas 6 ft. or higher
 Walking and working surfaces must be inspected prior to work
 Surfaces must be strong enough to support workers
 Guardrails must be 42 inches (plus or minus 3 inches) above
working surfaces and capable of supporting 200 pounds
 Body belts are no longer an acceptable means of fall arrest
 The employer shall provide a certified training program for each
employee who might be exposed to fall hazards