How To Prevent Falls From Heights During Construction Work

Falls from heights remain one of the leading causes of fatalities and injuries at construction sites. Both workers and employers can play crucial roles in preventing these incidents in the following ways. 

What Workers Can Do to Prevent Falls

Wear Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use appropriate fall protection equipment, such as harnesses, lanyards, and lifelines, when working at heights. Before using PPE, inspect it for damage, wear it correctly, and ensure it is securely anchored. Faulty or improperly used equipment can fail in critical moments.

Use Ladders and Scaffolding Safely

Ensure that ladders and scaffolding are properly set up, stable, and suitable for the task. According to Philadelphia work injury attorneys, neglecting ladder and scaffolding safety is a common cause of construction site injuries. Follow weight capacity limits, avoid overreaching, and maintain three points of contact (e.g., two hands and one foot) when using ladders. For scaffolding, use guardrails and toe boards and ensure planks are secure.

Understand and Follow Safety Procedures

Read over site-specific fall protection plans and adhere to all safety protocols. This includes using designated pathways, avoiding restricted areas, and participating in safety briefings and training programs.

Stay Alert and Communicate

Remain vigilant for hazards such as unstable surfaces, wet or slippery conditions, or improperly installed equipment. Communication is critical; promptly report hazards or unsafe conditions to supervisors to ensure they are addressed.

Avoid Risky Behaviors

Prioritize safety over speed. Unsafe practices, like leaning over guardrails or climbing unapproved structures, can lead to accidents. 

What Employers Can Do to Prevent Falls

Implement a Comprehensive Fall Protection Plan

Develop and enforce a site-specific fall protection plan that outlines the risks and safety measures for working at heights. This plan should address the use of PPE, proper equipment setup, and emergency response protocols.

Provide High-Quality Training

Offer regular training sessions on fall prevention techniques and the proper use of safety equipment. OSHA requires that employers train workers to recognize fall hazards and understand how to mitigate them. 

Provide Equipment 

Ensure that workers have reliable fall protection equipment and it meets safety standards. Regularly inspect and maintain ladders, scaffolds, and safety gear.  

Conduct Site Inspections

Routinely inspect construction sites to identify and address hazards such as unguarded edges, unstable surfaces, or damaged equipment. These inspections should include both daily walk-throughs and formal audits to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Install Guardrails and Safety Nets

Employers must install guardrails, safety nets, or other physical barriers where workers are exposed to fall hazards. These passive fall protection measures provide an additional layer of safety, especially in areas where PPE alone is insufficient.

Limit Access to High-Risk Areas

Restrict access to elevated work areas to authorized and properly trained personnel. Using clear signage and barricades can help prevent unauthorized entry and reduce the likelihood of falls.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Encourage workers to report hazards without fear of retaliation and reward safe practices. 

What to Do After a Fall

After a fall during construction work, call 911 immediately for serious injuries. If you are able, move to a safe area away from additional hazards. Report the incident to your supervisor and document the fall, including details about the conditions and any equipment failures. Seek medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor, as symptoms may appear later. 

Ensure your employer files a workers’ compensation claim to cover medical expenses and lost wages. Consult a Philadelphia construction accident lawyer if negligence or unsafe conditions contributed to the fall, to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.