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SECTION B7: FALL PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS
Introduction
When work is performed on elevated surfaces such as roofs, or during construction
activities, protection against falls frequently must be considered. Fall
arresting systems, which include lifelines, body harnesses, and other
associated equipment, are often used when fall hazards cannot be controlled
by railings, floors, nets, and other means. These systems are designed
to stop a free fall of up to six feet while limiting the forces imposed
on the wearer.
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Scope and Application
Fall protection is required for most construction activities by the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) whenever the
work is performed in an area that is six feet higher than its surroundings.
Exceptions to this rule include work done from scaffolds, ladders
and stairways, derricks and cranes, and work involving electrical transmission
and distribution. Also excluded is the performance of inspections, investigations,
or assessments of existing conditions prior to the beginning or after
the completion of construction.
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Program Description
Fall protection is required whenever work is performed in an area six
feet above its surroundings and can generally be provided through the
use of guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest
systems. Where it can be clearly demonstrated that the use of these
systems is infeasible or creates a greater hazard, a fall protection
program that provides for alternative fall protection measures may be
implemented.
Fall Protection Systems
A variety of systems may be chosen from when providing fall protection.
These systems include:
- Guardrails: Standard guardrails
consist of a top rail, located 42 inches above the floor, and a
mid-rail. Screens and mesh may be used to replace the mid-rail,
so long as they extend from the top rail to the floor.
- Personal Fall Arresting Systems:
Components of a personal fall arresting system include a body harness,
lanyard, lifeline, connector, and an anchorage point capable of
supporting at least 5000 pounds.
- Positioning Device Systems:
Positioning device systems consist of a body belt or harness rigged
to allow work on a vertical surface, such as a wall, with both hands
free.
- Safety Monitoring by a Competent Person:
This system allows a trained person to monitor others as they work
on elevated surfaces and warn them of any fall hazards.
- Safety Net Systems: These
systems consist of nets installed as close as possible under the
work area.
- Warning Line Systems:
Warning line systems are made up of lines or ropes installed around
a work area on a roof. These act as a barrier to prevent those working
on the roof from approaching it edges.
- Covers: Covers are
fastened over holes in the working surface to prevent falls.
Additional Precautions
Protection should also be provided from falling objects. Work surfaces
should be kept clear of material and debris by removal at regular
intervals. Toeboards should be used to prevent objects from being
inadvertently kicked to a lower level. When necessary, canopies should
be provided.
Prohibited Devices
Body harnesses are required for use with
all personal fall arresting systems. Body belt use is prohibited,
except under certain specific circumstances. Also, only locking-type
snaphooks may be used as part of a fall arresting system.
Training
Training must include the following:
- How to recognize and minimize fall hazards
- The nature of the fall hazards in the work area
- Procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling, and inspecting
the specific fall protection systems used
- Use, operation, and limitations of fall protection systems
- The user’s role in fall protection systems
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Roles and Responsibilities
Department
- Identify areas where fall protection is needed.
- Obtain or develop fall protection systems.
- Ensure workers are trained.
Supervisors
- Know when fall protection is necessary.
- Provide workers with fall protection devices.
- Ensure workers use fall protection devices.
EHS
- Assist in identification of areas where fall protection is needed.
- Provide worker training.
Individual
- Attend training.
- Know when fall protection is necessary.
- Use fall protection systems.
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For More Information
Contact an EHS Safety Engineer at 258-5294.
The Princeton University Fall Protection Program is available through EHS.
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