A Team Approach to Construction Fall Prevention

OSHA's National Fall Prevention Stand-Down continues this week as part of the agencies effort to raise awareness of measures that all employers can take to prevent falls on the job. In response to the ongoing campaign, Zurich North America, a leading construction insurance provider,
offers these six safety tips to help construction employers reduce falls:

1. Assess site hazards to determine the appropriate equipment needed for a job.
2. Invest in proper equipment, ensuring that it is used appropriately and with caution.
3. Inspect and remove any fall exposures while securing materials so they don’t fall.
4. Train employees on fall protection and equipment inspection, having accountability in place for ignoring safety precautions.
5. Document safety training and noncompliance with protocols.
6. Before starting work, discuss the day’s tasks, required tools and potential hazards.

“We try to inspire everyone in the construction industry to be leaders in safety," says Zurich's Eric Lambert. "It’s a philosophy and strong team approach that can lead to safer projects. It can be as simple as employees meeting before each shift to discuss hazards and ways to prevent them.”