What Workers Can Do to Prevent Falls in the Workplace

Although falls are the leading cause of death in construction, there are steps workers can take to prevent accidents and injuries. See these following strategies from OSHA to avoid falls in the workplace:

• Identify all potential tripping and fall hazards before work starts.
• Look for fall hazards such as unprotected floor openings/edges, shafts, skylights, stairwells, and roof openings/edges.
• Inspect fall protection equipment for defects before use.
• Select, wear, and use fall protection equipment appropriate for the task.
• Secure and stabilize all ladders before climbing them.
• Never stand on the top rung/step of a ladder.
• Use handrails when you go up or down stairs.
• Practice good housekeeping. Keep cords, welding leads and air hoses out of walkways or adjacent work areas.