Falls are the reason for most injuries and deaths on construction sites (about 1/3 of all fatalities in the industry). Even a fall from a short height can be fatal, so it is important that each employee is properly trained and has the right equipment. Employers are required by
OSHA standards to provide fall protection and training for workers who will perform their duties at a height of 6 feet or more above a lower level. In order to reduce injury, it is important that you have a plan, proper equipment, and safety training.
Begin with a plan
Employers should carefully consider the risks of their projects and
plan to make sure that the job is done safely. Consider what the job entails, what tasks will be involved in order to carry out the job, and what safety equipment each task will require.
Use Proper Equipment
Having the proper
equipment will ensure that your job sight is the safest it can be. For fall prevention, you should assess each individual fall hazard on site and use the safety equipment required for each unique situation. First assess the workplace to determine if walking or working surfaces have the necessary strength and structural integrity to safely support the workers. Then determine if fall protection is required using the requirements set forth in
OSHA 3146. There are many types of safety systems to consider and many are required for specific situations. You may be required to implement guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, or other safety systems.
Training and Drills
Safety training is key to preventing falls. Employers are required to provide fall protection training to workers who might be exposed to fall hazards. Training should include how to recognize fall hazards and how to minimize them. It is the employer’s responsibility to make sure their employees receive proper training from a knowledgeable professional who is qualified in the multiple areas of fall protection as explained in 29CFR1926 of OSHA 3146-05R.
Each job has unique needs and different requirements to follow. For help navigating the safety requirements, equipment, and training needed for your work site, contact TSC’s Client Services Department at 201.437.5150.
TSCTA NJ is here to help
TSCTA NJ provides, for your convenience,
fall prevention and many other
safety training courses in New Jersey. With classes in both English and Spanish out training academy located in
Bayonne is the go to for workers working in New York but living in New Jersey.
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