Affordable Insurance Coverage in PA & MD: Insurance 101

Safety Checklist for Fall Protection

Written by Admin | 1/27/15 5:00 AM

Hazard Identification

  • Workers potentially exposed to a fall hazard receive training before they start work in elevated locations.
  • Training includes an explanation of the company’s fall protection policies and systems, selection and proper use of protective devices, and equipment maintenance.

Personal Fall Protection

  • Personal fall protection is used both to prevent workers from falling and to break falls.
  • Fall protection is in place when workers could fall more than six feet.

Personal Fall Arrest Systems

  • Personal fall arrest systems are used to stop workers in a free-fall. They consist of an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness. They may also include a lanyard, lifeline, and deceleration device.
  • The system prevents workers from falling over six feet or hitting the lower level.
  • The system is inspected by a competent person at least twice a year, and whenever it has sustained an impact.
  • Lanyards, anchorages, and lifelines are capable of supporting 5,000 pounds.
  • The system is not attached to a guardrail or hoist that cannot sustain the load.
  • All personal fall arrest systems are of an approved type and are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Each worker has a separate lifeline.
  • Lifelines are protected from cuts and abrasion. Worn or damaged rope is removed from service.
  • Body harnesses are removed from service once they take a shock from a fall.
  • Body belts are not used as part of a fall arrest system.

Guardrails

  • Toprail is capable of withstanding downward and outward force of > 200 pounds.
  • Toprail height is 42 inches +/- 3 inches.
  • Midrail is capable of withstanding downward and outward force of > 150 pounds.
  • Midrail height is 21 inches +/- 3 inches.
  • Mesh or screen used in place of a midrail.
  • Toprail cable is flagged at six-foot intervals.

Safety Nets

  • Nets are never more than 30 feet below the work area.
  • There are no obstructions between the work area and the net.
  • Items are removed from the safety net as soon as possible, at least between work shifts.