Recapping OSHA’s Fall Prevention — Putting the 3 Steps Together
Worksite falls happen all too often, which is why we’ve spent the past three months discussing the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) fall prevention program. In 2013 alone, 35% of all construction fatalities were falls. These accidents are entirely preventable and they need to stop now.
Launched on a national level, OSHA’s fall prevention campaign was designed to help both workers and employers understand the risks associated with working on ladders, scaffolds, and roofs. While necessary to complete many jobs, these tools must be used properly. Cooperation from everyone on a worksite is needed to keep risks to a minimum and get the job done safely.
Plan
Proper planning is necessary to complete every job, but becomes even more essential when working from heights. Prior to sending employees up on ladders and scaffolds, you must determine exactly what task they’ll be accomplishing and what safety gear is needed.
When completing your cost estimate for a project, be sure to include all necessary safety equipment, so you’re not tempted to bypass these tools to avoid going over budget. No expense is too great when the health and safety of your workers is at stake.
Provide
When working at a height of six or more feet, your employees face a greater risk of serious injury or death. Providing them with the right fall projection equipment for the job could be a matter of life or death, so skipping this step isn’t optional.
As a construction professional, you know different jobs require different ladders and scaffolds, so clearly a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. If your workers are on a roof, you may want to consider providing each person with a personal fall arrest system. Before sending them up to the roof, make sure each PFAS fits and is in good working condition.
Train
Workers aren’t born with the ability to properly set up and use safety equipment, so you’re responsible for providing training. This includes hazard recognition training and teaching them how to use ladders, scaffolds, fall protection systems, and other equipment properly. OSHA has plenty of available resources to help you through the process, so take advantage of them.
The MAC Incorporated blog is regularly updated with the latest from OSHA, so check back often. Our niche-based staffing firm is here to help employers like you create and maintain safe and healthy worksites. If you’re looking to hire industry-leading engineering, maintenance, or operations management professionals, contact us today to start your search!
