Construction is a potentially high hazard industry for those who work in it, with falls at the top of the hazards list. In fact, falls are the most frequent cause of fatalities at construction sites and annually account for one of every three construction-related deaths. Although there are commonly available methods for preventing falls, the number of construction workers who fall to their deaths has increased in recent years. According to preliminary 2007 fatality data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were at least 442 construction worker fatalities during 2007 as a result of falls from all causes.

Falls are the second leading cause of death in the workplace after vehicle crashes and, in construction, falls are the number one cause of death and the second cause of nonfatal injuries.  Not only is working at height a problem, but also there are other contributory factors that make falls almost inevitable. 

Inadequate training. OSHA requires employers to provide a training program for each employee who might be exposed to fall hazards.  The training shall provide hazard recognition and hazard mitigation.  This is a challenge at all times, but if that workforce doesn’t understand English the task is aggravated.   Recent statistics show that there has been an increase in deaths among Hispanic construction workers.  A CDC report (June 2008) states that higher death rates for Hispanic workers is due to inadequate knowledge and control of hazards, inadequate training and supervision.

Inadequate Fall Protection.  Employer must determine if the walking surface is adequate to support workers.  Any unprotected sides and edges are 6 feet or higher must have a guardrail system, safety nets or personal fall arrest systems.    Workers must be protected  from falling through holes (including skylights) more than 6 feet above lower levels by personal fall arrest systems, covers or guardrail systems erected around hole.

How to Protect Workers.

1.      Identify all potential fall hazards before starting work.

2.   Take action to protect against these hazards:

a.    Install covers over floor openings.  Covers must support two times the weight of employees/materials/equipment that might be imposed on cover.

b.   Make sure unprotected sides/edges are equpped with a guardrail system, consisting of a toprail, midrail and toeboard.

c.    If a and b are not possible, provide employees with a personal fall arrest system (PFAS).  PFAS consists of a lanyard, harness and anchorage.

3.   Inspect all fall protection equipment daily before use.

4.   Make sure all ladders are in good condition and stabilized before using.

5.    Make sure employees are trained.

6.   Have a written fall protection policy.

Go to OSHA’s website (www.osha.gov) for more information on how to comply with fall protection requirements.  If you would like a free PFAS inspection form, call 800-200-0888 or email support@mrsoshasafety.com.