Fall Prevention Essentials

OSHA fall protection training is aimed at reducing the number of accidents which may end up with serious injuries or even death. It may sound unrealistic but falls are still among the most common causes of work-related injuries happening on construction sites. Taking the above into consideration, it is really crucial to respect and follow fall prevention regulations. In this article, we would like to focus on the most essential tips on how to improve fall prevention of your workplace, both for you and your employer.

Employers’ Duties Related to Fall Prevention

• Provide working conditions that are free of known dangers (for example, provide needed safety measures to protect every floor hole into which a worker can accidentally walk by using railing and toe board or a floor hole cover).
• Keep the workplace clean, according to actual sanitary regulations.
• It is an employer’s duty to provide you job hazards training including fall safety training in a language understandable for the employees.
• Choose and provide all the employees with necessary equipment at no cost for them

3 Steps to Improve Safety of Your Workplace

First of all, always keep in mind the duties above. Why? If your employer fails to fulfill them it may harm you directly so it’s your duty to report any violations to OSHA.  For more information, on how to file complaint visit www.osha.gov or call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742), TTY 1-877-889-5627.

Secondly, be sure to attend all the required trainings and pass the end-of-course exam especially fall protection training test. Remember, the knowledge gained during safety trainings may save your life.

Thirdly, choose the trainer provider wisely. There is a lot of entities offering safety courses both offline and online without OSHA (or other governmental organizations) approval. Only OSHA approved trainers will provide you with all necessary knowledge and certificates(cards) confirming course completion. Nevertheless, if you decide to search for falls prevention training courses online, remember to check if this course provider is legit by visiting OSHA website.

Other safety tips on how to avoid falls

• Plan ahead your working day in order to get the job done safely.
• Always wear a harness and stay in touch with your team/supervisor
• Make sure your harness fits you and its condition is satisfying, never use damaged equipment.
• Double-check all fall protection equipment before using it, use guardrails or lifelines etc.
• Mind all holes, openings, and skylights: the site may seem to be protected perfectly but you can never be too cautious as it can cost you your life.