Fall Hazards: The #1 Cause of Construction Deaths
According to OSHA, falls account for approximately 33% of all construction fatalities. This makes fall protection not just important—it's absolutely critical.
Understanding the 6-Foot Rule
OSHA requires fall protection for construction workers at heights of 6 feet or greater. This includes:
- Roof work
- Scaffolding
- Ladders and aerial lifts
- Open-sided floors and platforms
- Leading edge work
10 Essential Fall Protection Measures
1. Guardrail Systems
Install guardrails around any open-sided platform or floor opening:
- Top rail at 42 inches (±3 inches)
- Mid-rail at 21 inches
- Capable of withstanding 200 pounds of force
2. Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS)
When guardrails aren't practical:
- Full-body harness (not body belts)
- Lanyard with shock absorber
- Anchor point rated for 5,000 pounds
3. Safety Net Systems
For work where fall arrest systems aren't feasible:
- Installed within 30 feet of work surface
- Proper mesh size and strength
- Regular inspection for damage
4. Warning Line Systems
For roofing work on low-slope roofs:
- Placed 6 feet from edge
- 34–39 inches high
- Highly visible flagging
5. Hole Covers
Any hole large enough for a person to fall through must be:
- Covered securely
- Labeled "HOLE" or "COVER"
- Capable of supporting twice the weight of potential load
6. Ladder Safety
Proper ladder use prevents countless injuries:
- 3-point contact at all times
- Extend 3 feet above landing
- Secure top and bottom
7. Scaffold Safety
All scaffolds must have:
- Full planking
- Guardrails on all open sides
- Proper access ladder or stairs
8. Training Programs
Every worker must understand:
- Fall hazard recognition
- Proper equipment use
- Emergency procedures
9. Regular Equipment Inspection
Before each use, check:
- Harnesses for wear or damage
- Lanyards for fraying
- Anchor points for stability
10. Rescue Planning
Have a plan for fallen workers:
- Designated rescue team
- Proper rescue equipment
- Practice drills
The Bottom Line
Prevention is always better than reaction. A comprehensive safety plan that addresses fall hazards can save lives and protect your business from costly penalties.
Need help documenting your fall protection program? SafetyPlanPro creates detailed, job-specific safety plans that cover all OSHA requirements, including complete fall protection protocols.