Safety First: Preventing Workplace Falls in Construction

Falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries, especially in the construction industry. The best way to prevent falls is to avoid working at heights in the first place, but it is sometimes necessary. OSHA has a Fall Prevention Campaign to help raise awareness.

Employers are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of their employees, including comprehensive fall protection programs that follow OSHA regulations and industry standards. The OSHA 6-foot rule requires construction industry employers to provide fall protection systems, such as guardrails, safety nets, and harnesses, for employees working at heights of 6 feet or more above a lower level.

Guardrail systems and hole covers are one way to protect workers from falling to a lower level. Guardrails should withstand a force of at least 200 pounds applied in a downward or outward direction within 2 inches of the top edge, at any point along the top rail. The guardrail should have a top rail 42 inches (+/- 3”) above the walking surface, a mid rail, and toe boards. Place hole covers over any opening of 2 inches or more. Covers must fully cover the hole and be secured in place, labeled with "hole" or "cover," and be able to support twice the maximum expected load. 

A personal fall restraint system limits (or restrains) a worker’s movement which prevents them from being able to reach dangerous areas. A fall restraint system includes a full body harness, a lanyard, and an anchor point. On the other hand, personal fall arrest systems reduce injury if a fall occurs. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered when it comes to selecting the right system components. The OSHA website explains the factors to consider when selecting the right system components.

Regardless of how you choose to protect workers from falls, planning is an essential step. As you bid on jobs, you should develop a fall protection plan and include all related costs in your proposal. The planning continues every day when you arrive at the job site. Always verify that fall protection controls are in place and functioning properly. Should there be an incident, review and revise the plan to help prevent future incidents. The OSHA Plan, Provide, Train campaign emphasizes the elements of this approach to workplace safety.
 

Check out the OSHA sample plan. Acuity also has a resource to help you conduct a safety training meeting.
 

_{Source: “OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign.” Occupational Safety and Health Administration, www.osha.gov/stop-falls. Accessed 26 Mar. 2024.}