Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in construction. In 2018 alone, falls accounted for 32% of all construction fatalities, with 320 lives lost (Bureau of Labor Statistics). These numbers remind us how crucial it is to prioritize safety, especially when working at heights.

Preventing Falls with Plan, Provide, and Train

At FS 360, we follow OSHA’s simple but effective model for fall prevention: Plan, Provide, and Train. Here’s how it works:

1. Plan: Plan work tasks ahead of time. Planning work tasks is especially important for high-hazard tasks such as working at heights. First look at eliminating any work at heights if possible. If elimination is not possible then plan what you will need for performing the work at heights. Plan out what equipment, tools, personnel, and materials you will need. After looking at these items, look at what safety equipment, PPE, and training will be needed to safely complete the task.
2. Provide: Provide all necessary safety equipment and PPE when the work height exceeds six (6) feet and engineering controls such as guardrails are not in place. Outside of equipment and PPE, provide the employees with the proper amount of time it takes to set up the job as well complete the work.
3. Train: Properly train employees to not only know how to use the safety equipment that is provided but also in hazard recognition. It is important that the employees are able to recognize hazards and understand how to properly address them before starting or continuing work. Train employees to first think about how to eliminate dangerous work tasks or the hazards that accompany working at heights.

Safety is Non-Negotiable

Meeting OSHA standards is just the beginning. We expect everyone—subcontractors and employees alike—to follow thorough safety plans, use proper equipment, and stay up to date on training. These steps help prevent injuries and save lives.

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Together, we can make construction sites safer for everyone.

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