How Employers Can Prevent Falls on Construction Sites
Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for thousands of serious injuries and fatalities each year. Unlike other workplace accidents, falls can cause catastrophic injuries in an instant. Workers may suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or death.
Because construction workers often operate at significant heights, the stakes are high. Employers play a crucial role in preventing these accidents, and the law requires them to provide a safe working environment.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets strict fall protection standards for the construction industry. Employers must:
- Maintain a safe environment. Employers must ensure that worksites are free from recognized hazards that could put workers at risk.
- Keep work areas clean and dry. Floors and surfaces should be kept clear of debris and, whenever possible, dry to prevent slips and falls.
- Provide protective equipment at no cost. Employers are responsible for supplying the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) without charging workers.
- Offer clear safety training. Employees must be trained on workplace hazards in a language they understand, ensuring instructions are practical and accessible.
Steps for Employers
Employers who take fall protection seriously not only comply with the law but also reduce worker injuries, improve morale, and maintain productivity. Here are some steps they can take that will benefit everyone:
- Conduct Regular Safety Training
Training should go beyond a one-time orientation. Workers need refresher courses and hands-on demonstrations so they know how to properly use ladders, scaffolding, and fall arrest systems. Training should also cover how to recognize unstable surfaces and weather-related hazards like slippery roofs.
- Provide the Right Equipment
Employers must supply protective equipment that fits properly and is well-maintained. Harnesses, lanyards, and anchorage points should be available to every worker exposed to fall risks. Scaffolding must be built according to OSHA standards and inspected daily.
- Perform Jobsite Inspections
Conditions on construction sites change quickly, which means hazards can appear overnight. Employers should require supervisors to perform daily walkthroughs of the site, checking scaffolding, guardrails, platforms, and flooring for stability. Any hazards should be addressed immediately before work continues.
- Encourage a Safety Culture
Employers should encourage open communication by creating a “safety-first” culture. This might include anonymous reporting systems, rewarding workers for following protocols, or appointing safety leaders on each crew. When employees know their safety concerns will be taken seriously, they’re more likely to speak up before an accident happens.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Construction accidents are common, often leading to serious injuries. Employers play a huge role in preventing these accidents and keeping workers safe.
A Morristown construction accident injury attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you understand your legal rights. We will work to secure you the compensation you need and deserve. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (973) 455-1567.
Source:
osha.gov/fall-protection
