Unmasking the Fall: Complacency in Construction Site Safety
In a world where the goal is to build and go higher, literally, and figuratively, the daily safety of the people working on job sites is of the utmost importance. In the architectural and engineering world, the dance between safety and production defines the evolved industry and standards. We will delve into a critical aspect of construction safety that is often the first thing to fall to the wayside: fall protection.
Construction sites are bustling with activity where workers of numerous trades navigate a labyrinth of scaffolding, ladders, and elevated platforms. Inherent risks go hand in hand with these heights and falls are the leading cause of death according to OSHA, “In 2020, there were 351 fatal falls to a lower level of 1,008 construction fatalities.”
OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign in the Construction Sector set out to raise awareness for common fall hazards and prevent falls from ladders, scaffolds, and roofs. The main three points that OSHA touches on are to “Plan”, “Provide” and “Train”.
Whether a general contractor, architect, engineer, or subcontractor, knowing and employing OSHA’s guidelines and regulations to safeguard workers from fall hazards on job sites is imperative. Being familiar with OSHA’s Fall Protection Standard (29 CFR 1926 Subpart M) is essential, to mitigate risks and ensure compliance on construction sites. The cost of safety equipment and tools needed at the construction site should be assessed while compiling an estimate for a new project.
To maintain and oversee safety standards while on an active job site, it is key for the proper tools and safety equipment to be available to those working on-site to prevent injuries. Equipment typically needed on job sites includes ladders, scaffolding, and PPE equipment for working at or above six feet.
Training and education should cover hazard recognition, emergency procedures, and proper equipment usage. This includes toolbox talks on ladder, safety, and roof safety.
Similar training is also needed for setting up, inspecting, and the use of ladders, scaffolding, and personal protection equipment (PPE), which is vital on job sites to ensure that lack of training does not result in injury.
According to OSHA’s Campaign to Stop Falls under Training, it states:
· Ladder Safety: Employees must be trained to properly use a ladder- this includes safety measures like:
· Maintain three points of contact
· Place the ladder on level footing
· Always face the ladder
· Secure the ladder by locking the metal braces at the center of the ladder
· Don't overreach
· Don't walk the ladder
· Scaffold Safety: Employees must be trained to safely set up and use scaffolds- this includes safety measures like:
· During setup: fully plank scaffolds, complete all guardrails, ensure stable footing and plumb and level
· Ensure proper access to scaffolds
· A competent person must inspect the scaffold before use
· Don't climb over cross braces
· Don't stand on guardrails
· Don't use a ladder on a scaffold
· Roof Safety: Employees must be trained to avoid fall hazards on a roof and properly use fall protection equipment-this includes safety measures like:
· Make sure your harness fits and is not defective when using PFAS
· Always stay connected/tie off
· Ensure that all anchor points are safe
· Protect all holes, openings and skylights
· Don't sit or walk on skylights or other openings
The standards and guidelines set by OSHA provide a robust framework, although their success hinges on rigorous implementation and ongoing education. It is not enough to know the rules; they must be embedded in every aspect of site operations.
Continuous training, proper planning, and the correct use of safety equipment are all components in preventing falls and safeguarding lives.
By remaining vigilant and committed to these principles, the construction industry can continue to reach new heights—both safely and sustainably.
