FALL PROTECTION

WHY? –BECAUSE: Falls accounted for 10% of fatal work injuries in 1994 & Serious hazards can be present while above ground. –Examples: Slips, trips, falling objects, etc.

REGULATIONS Occupational Safety And Health Administration –General Industry OSHA Powered Platforms OSHA App C Fall Arrest System OSHA Floor and Wall Openings OSHA Fixed Ladders OSHA Scaffolding –Construction Industry OSHA Safety Belts, Lifelines, and Lanyards

WHEN TO WEAR FALL PROTECTION FALL PROTECTION SHOULD BE WORN ANY TIME THAT YOU ARE 6 FEET OR MORE ABOVE GROUND LEVEL.

GENERAL RULES Use a personnel lift only if you are authorized. Only authorized employees should work in elevated areas. Stay away from edges and refrain from leaning too far over. Listen for verbal warnings.

POWERED PLATFORMS Includes powered platform installations dedicated to interior and exterior building maintenance Platforms should not exceed rated load Refrain from using the platform in snow, ice, or other hazardous weather conditions Adequate precautions should be taken to protect the platform, ropes, and life lines from damage –Example: ACIDS, HEAT The platform should not be used in winds greater than 25mph.

FALL ARREST SYSTEM USES –Used for working above a lower level. –Worker positioning. –Worker restraint. –Climbing. FORCES –Body Weight x Fall Distance SYSTEM –Tied or fixed to object. –Harness or belt worn. –Lanyard, Lifeline.

FALL ARREST SYSTEM The system should be rigged so that a worker cannot free-fall more than 6 feet or contact a lower level. Hook the line to an object that will allow the connection to be stable and keep the hook from becoming loose. INSPECT THE SYSTEMS PRIOR TO EACH USE –Do not use if mildew, wear, damage, deterioration, or defective components are found.

FALL ARREST SYSTEM BODY BELTS –As of January 1, 1998 the use of a body belt is prohibited by OSHA Damage to spine and organs Max force pounds HARNESS Forces on thighs, pelvis, waist, chest, and shoulders Must be rated for at least 1800 pounds of force and 15 min of suspension CONNECTION RINGS Upper back for fall arrest Sides for positioning Front for rescue or suspension

FALL ARREST SYSTEM LANYARD –Connects harness to lifeline or anchor –Stretching or tearing system absorbs shock and prevents bouncing –No knots or wrapping around sharp objects LIFELINES –Rope or webbed material –Secured above point of operation –Support 5400 pounds

GUARDING FLOOR AND WALL OPENINGS AND HOLES FLOOR OPENINGS –Guarded by a standard railing and toeboard on all sides. –Guarded by a protective cover. Example: Manhole covers WALL OPENINGS AND HOLES –Wall openings or holes with a drop of more than 4 feet should be guarded. –Can be guarded by a rail, roller, fence, half door or the equivalent. –Grab bars on sides of opening.

FIXED LADDERS The distance between rungs, cleats, and steps should be no larger than 12 inches. Ladders should be free of splinters, sharp edges, burrs, or projections. Metal or wood ladders should be maintained in good condition. –Metal - Prevent corrosion –Wood - Prevent decay Inspect ladders before every use.

SCAFFOLDING Footing for scaffolds shall be solid and be able to hold the intended workload. Do not use objects such as barrels, boxes, loose bricks or concrete blocks to support the scaffold or it’s parts. Scaffolds should be able to support at least 4 times the intended weight load.

SCAFFOLDING Scaffolds shall be secured to permanent structures. Overhead protection shall be provided if needed. Tools, materials and debris shall not be allowed to accumulate. Scaffolds shall not be altered or moved while they are in use or occupied. Scaffolds shall be inspected regularly and maintained in a safe, working condition.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INSPECTION OF EQUIPMENT LOOK FOR: –Cuts, tears, abrasions, or stitches coming out. –Cracks or burns. –Parts move freely. –Alterations in design. –Deterioration. –Appropriate labels.

RESCUE PLAN Each worksite or facility must have a rescue plan. Employees must be trained on the plan. Be able to limit hanging or suspension time.