Evaluating OSHA Regulations – Fall Protection

According to OSHA, falls in the workplace contribute to a high number of worker’s compensation claims each year. It is an employer’s responsibility to ensure that falls are preventable in their facility. Falls can affect not only manufacturing or warehouse workers but also those who work in office environments as well. Here are some of the things OSHA requires to protect employees from falls in the workplace.

  • Guard floor holes. If there are floor holes around your facility make sure to provide some sort of guard to prevent workers from accidentally falling into one. A railing and toe board or a floor hole cover are acceptable options.
  • Guard rails for platforms. Any platforms that can become tripping hazards should have guard rails and toe-boards around them. This is the case for every elevated open sided platform, floors, or runways.
  • Guard rails for machines. Dangerous machines can prove hazardous for all workers regardless of their height or how well they’ve been trained in safety procedures. If a worker can fall into dangerous machines or equipment such as vat of hazardous materials or a conveyer belt, you must provide guardrails and toe-boards to prevent injury.
  • Safety equipment. You must provide any required personal protective equipment based on your specific industry for all employees at no cost to them. Some jobs may require more specific fall protection including safety harnesses, nets, or hand railings.
  • Safe working conditions. In all facilities, whether manufacturing or office oriented, owners and managers must ensure that all employees have safe working conditions. They must be free of any known dangers and accidents prevention should be taught.
  • Clean and dry floors. All floors in work areas or offices need to be kept clean and dry at all times. In the case of a spill, there should be a procedure to clean it up immediately to prevent any accidents from occurring.
  • Train workers about hazards. Each of your employees needs to be properly trained for safety which includes job hazards such as how to prevent falls. This training must be provided in a way that each employee can understand.

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