Why We’re Talking About Falls
Falls are one of OSHA’s “Fatal Four” leading causes of death in construction. Every year, more workers are killed from falls than from any other hazard in our industry. Most fall incidents are preventable with proper planning, protection, and accountability.
Key Fact: Falls from heights of 6 feet or more in construction require fall protection.
Where Fall Hazards Exist on Our Jobsites
- Roof edges
- Open-sided floors
- Leading edges
- Ladders
- Floor openings and holes
- Structural steel and framing
- Excavations near edges
- If you’re working at height or near an edge, you must assume there is a fall hazard.
Types of Fall Protection
1. Guardrail Systems
- Top rail (42” ± 3”)
- Mid-rail
- Toe board (when required)
- Must be able to withstand required force
2. Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS)
- Full-body harness
- Lanyard or self-retracting lifeline (SRL)
- Secure anchor point (5,000 lbs per worker or engineered system)
Remember: Tie off to an approved anchor point — not to conduit, guardrails, or unsecured structures.
3. Covers
- Must support at least twice the intended load
- Secured and clearly marked “HOLE” or “COVER”
Common Fall Protection Mistakes
- Not tying off because “it’s just for a minute”
- Using damaged harnesses or lanyards
- Connecting to improper anchor points
- Removing guardrails without replacing protection
- Improper ladder setup
- Working from the top step of a ladder
- Climbing scaffolds without proper access
Shortcuts lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
Ladder Safety Reminders
- Inspect before use
- Maintain 3 points of contact
- Set extension ladders at a 4:1 ratio
- Extend at least 3 feet above landing
- Never stand on the top step or cap
Company Expectations
- 100% tie-off when exposed to fall hazards
- No removal of guardrails without authorization
- Stop work if protection is missing
- Report damaged equipment immediately
- Look out for each other