Falls Wily Coyote always seems to fall into a deep canyon and not be injured at all. People can’t. Then why do we seem to have trouble getting workers to pay attention to the fall hazards around them? Guide for Discussion The following items represent the bulk of the exposure to falls on a construction site. Ladders: Always use the right ladder. Set them on level ground and tie them off at the top (for security). Do not over reach. Do not over extend yourself on the ladder. Always face the ladder and try to use both hands when climbing. Floor Openings: Floor openings should...

Scaffold Safety Rules General Before starting work on a scaffold, inspect it for the following: Are guardrails, toeboards, and planking in place and secure? Are locking pins at each joint in place? Are all wheels on moveable scaffolds locked? Do not attempt to gain access to a scaffold by climbing on it (unless it is specifically designed for climbing – always use a ladder. Scaffolds and their components must be capable of supporting four times the maximum intended load. Any scaffold, including accessories such as braces, brackets, trusses, screw legs, ladders, etc., damaged or weakened in any way, must be immediately...

Don’t Fall for Injuries With predictable regularity, falls continue to be a leading cause of accidents and deaths on the job. Falls include those on the same level (floor, ground), as well as from one level to another (stairs, ladders, roof, etcetera). They can be caused by either or both of two reasons - an unsafe action of an individual (hurrying, overreaching, improper use of equipment, etc.) or unsafe condition of the situation (poor housekeeping, unguarded opening, surface condition, etcetera). Good footing is the best way to avoid falls and good housekeeping is the best way to ensure good footing. Trash, wires,...