Don’t Fall Victim to These 5 Common Fall Protection Hazards
Fall protection is an essential part of workplace safety and can help save lives in the event of an accident. Unfortunately, the risks associated with working at heights are very real and can be incredibly dangerous. In this blog post, we’ll explore five common fall protection hazards and how you can avoid them to keep your workplace safe.
1) Know the regulations
Know the regulations, and always be aware of your surroundings. If you’re at a height, you should know how far up you are and what your limits are. A fall can happen quickly and unexpectedly. That’s why it is important to have a plan in place in case one does happen. Make sure that there is no equipment within 10 feet of where you work, because this will increase the chances of injury during a fall. You’ll want to make sure that everyone on your team has been trained, as well. The training should take into account what safety measures they can take for different jobsites as well as for their own safety.
2) Do a site assessment
Site assessment is one of the best ways for workers to assess the safety of their workplace and eliminate potential hazards. In the case that a worker is assigned to work at height, site survey is not only recommended but mandated by OSHA. There are four things that workers should look out for during a site survey: hazards, warning signs, unsafe conditions, and environmental factors. All of these need to be assessed before proceeding with any work.
3) Select the right equipment
Selecting the right equipment is a key factor in protecting yourself from these common fall protection hazards. You should always ensure you are wearing the appropriate gear, including but not limited to steel-toe boots, a hardhat, and gloves. Never work alone on any type of construction project and always be aware of your surroundings at all times.
4) Train your employees
Train your employees. You cannot expect them to know what they should and shouldn’t do if they don’t know the dangers. By educating your employees, you can make sure that they are safe while on the job. It’s worth it to invest in the proper training for everyone who is working in high-risk areas, no matter how small or large. Investing in a fall protection training program will not only keep you compliant with OSHA regulations, but will also give your employees peace of mind when it comes time to go back out on the job site.
5) Inspect your equipment
Inspect your equipment before each use. Check for any signs of wear, cracks or loose parts and replace them if necessary. You may also want to look for frayed straps, worn webbing or other potential sources of weakness. Be sure you have a full set of safety gear and are properly trained in the appropriate use of this equipment before you start working on a high location.
