Construction Law
OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified falls as the leading cause of death in the construction industry, and they stress that a large majority of these deaths were preventable. Because of this, OSHA has launched a new Fall Prevention Campaign that lists three simple steps to avoid falls: Plan, Provide, and Train. As your Orlando construction lawyers, we know how important it is to stay up to date with all of OSHA’s regulations and keep your employees safe.
It’s highly recommended that contractors visit OSHA’s website (osha.gov/stopfalls). They are dedicated to raising awareness for their fall prevention campaign in the hopes to educate employers and workers about fall hazards, roofs, and scaffolds. To help accomplish this, OSHA has partnered with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) – Construction Sector.
1. Plan Ahead For Safety
It’s crucial for employers to plan ahead accordingly when having employees work from heights, such as ladders, roofs, or scaffolds. It will help to ensure that the job gets done safely, and you can plan what tasks need to be involved and what equipment will be needed. This will make certain that the correct equipment is selected to match what task is being completed.
2. Provide Employees With The Right Equipment
When workers will be at least 6 feet above the ground, they are in danger of serious injury or even death if they fall. An employer is responsible for providing fall protection and the proper safety gear for the job to make sure their employees are protected. When it comes to roof work, there are numerous ways to prevent falls. If your workers use Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS) you must provide harnesses for all workers that need to tie off to the anchor. It’s important to ensure that the PFAS fits correctly, and that all equipment is inspected regularly to check its conditions.
3. Train Employees On Proper Safety Equipment
Falls are preventable when workers have proper knowledge of safety equipment set up and use. In order for your employees to gain that knowledge, safety training sessions should be mandatory. Employees need to be trained on how to work on ladders, roofs, or scaffolds, whether they are the ones up high or if they are supervising from down below.
To speak with an experienced Orlando construction lawyer from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.