There is a significant risk of falling when working at heights. That is why OSHA regulations require employers to take specified precautions aimed at protecting the employees if they are working at heights of six feet or more. In addition to the rules, OSHA provides a working at heights training course, which offers a variety of guidelines to help minimize the chances of injury. Some of those tips are highlighted below.
Follow the OSHA Regulations Strictly
The most obvious tip to prevent fall accidents is to follow all the OSHA regulations. Start by developing and implementing a fall protection program and commit to it. Make sure that you provide training to all the employees regarding the fall protection program. In addition to that, do a continuous evaluation of the program. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it is effective at all times.
Make Sure Portable Ladders Are Always Positioned Safely
There is a risk of falling whenever portable ladders are not well-positioned when being used. The ladder may slip or move from its support and result in a fall. The portable ladder should be positioned in a way that the side rails extend above the landing by more than three feet. The side rails should also be secured at the top to support that is rigid, considering the weight of the ladder as well. The ladder used should be inspected before each use for any cracks, breakages, or any other defects.
Make Sure the Workers Use Proper Personal Protection Equipment
Using personal fall arrest systems is also usually a good idea to prevent injuries resulting from falls. When buying them, make sure that you choose ones that are of high quality and meet the industry standards. Such might be a little more expensive, but they are usually worth it. That is because they offer more functionality and durability. They might even be more expensive only because they provide more comfort. Do extensive research before you decide which PPE to buy. The type of job being done may influence your choices.
Understand the Fall Distance
Irrespective of how good the fall protection equipment you are wearing are, they will be of no use if they cannot engage on time. When using a lanyard attached to a deceleration device, for example, you should factor in the fall distance and ensure that the system will prevent the worker from hitting the ground. The weight and height of the worker and deployment time for the deceleration device are some of the things that you need to consider.