Working at heights carries a significant and often fatal risk, regardless of the industry. From scaffolding on a construction site to maintenance work on a rooftop, the potential for a fall is ever-present. According to OSHA, falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for a substantial portion of all fatalities each year. It’s a hazard that employers must take seriously to protect their employees and ensure a safe work environment.
Federal safety regulations establish strict triggers for fall protection based on the industry and the nature of the work. Under 29 CFR 1926.501, construction employers must provide protection for any worker operating at a height of six feet or more above a lower level. In general industry, 29 CFR 1910.28 mandates protection at just four feet. These standards require employers to evaluate all walking-working surfaces for structural integrity and ensure that all unprotected sides or edges are properly shielded.
A robust fall protection plan utilizes a hierarchy of controls to eliminate or mitigate risks effectively. This typically includes the installation of guardrail systems, safety nets, or the use of Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS). A complete PFAS consists of three critical components: a secure anchor point capable of supporting 5,000 pounds, a full-body harness, and a connecting device such as a shock-absorbing lanyard. Properly selecting and maintaining this hardware is essential to ensuring the system performs as intended during a fall event.
Pinnacol Assurance is here to help you navigate these complex regulations and build an effective fall protection program. Our resources and expert guidance assist with a wide range of tasks, from conducting a site-specific hazard analysis to developing a written fall protection policy. Our safety consultants can also provide hands-on training to ensure your employees know how to properly inspect, don, and use their fall arrest equipment. To request a Safety Service visit or if you simply have a safety-related question, please complete our Contact Us form and one of our Safety Consultants will respond within two business days.
Dropped Object Prevention Sample Plan
Self Retracting Lines Inspection Checklist
This refresher course reviews the skill sets of a competent person and informs participants of updated regulations and fall protection solutions. Participants expand their knowledge and ability to identify hazardous conditions, develop programs and make equipment selections to properly address fall hazards.
This course is for employees designated as competent persons engaged in federal contract work. The course develops practical solutions to difficult fall protection challenges, leveraging appropriate tools and equipment. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate acknowledging they have met OSHA, EM 385 and ANSI Z359.2 requirements for competent person status.
To learn more or to request enrollment, check out our Safety Education Online page.