Falls at construction sites are a constant risk for workers. According to a 2020 report from OSHA, fatalities from falls accounted for 351 of 1,008 construction site fatalities. Furthermore, with precautions in place, these fatal falls were avoidable.
In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to prevent falls at construction sites and what to do if you or someone else falls.
Staying safe on the job
Employees have the right to a safe workplace, receive safety training, and receive required safety equipment.
OSHA requires employers to have protections in place to prevent falls by requiring that fall protection be provided at elevations of six feet and over at construction sites. In order to meet this requirement, the employer is to guard or cover any holes where an employee may walk, provide a guardrail and toe-board around open platforms, and provide guardrails and toe-boards to prevent workers from falling into equipment that might cause injuries. Furthermore, construction sites may be required to provide a safety harness and line, safety nets, handrails, and stair rails.
OSHA promotes National Safety Stand-Down each May to encourage employers to speak with their employees about safety and preventing falls in construction. OSHA states that construction site falls can be prevented by:
- Planning ahead to get the job done safely.
- Providing the right equipment.
- Training everyone how to use the equipment.
Construction falls are preventable. If you work in construction and have a fall resulting in injury, it is important to know your rights. Employers are responsible for providing a safe workplace, which includes ensuring that employees use proper safety equipment and follow safety protocols. When they fail to do so, the consequences can be devastating.
