Falls account for almost one quarter of all industrial accidents.
These incidents can be avoided:
1. Use proper handrails.
2. Use proper guardrails.
3. Use properly installed scaffolding and tie-off roofers.
Train employees to carry appropriate sized loads to reduce strain and increase visibility.
5. Automate any product movement in the construction process.
6. Level all walking paths inside and out. Avoid stairs and elevation changes wherever possible.
7. Employees must wear appropriate footwear, non-skid.
Fall claims are expensive, about $19,000 on average. For a typical small contractor, their workers compensation modification (mod) will rise about twenty percent per year for three years, from one claim. The insurance company will probably not offer reduced preferred-rate coverage either.
Large contracting companies will suffer a lower percentage increase, but on a greater amount of premium. Still costly.
Doesn’t it make more sense to invest a few dollars to work safer than to pay a premium for ignoring the risk?
From the beginning of site work, grade the walkways and parking areas to level them. Stone or pave areas prone to becoming muddy or slick in foul weather. Make sure building entries are clear of debris and any elevation change is visually marked with bright tape or signs.
Storage areas, whether inside or outdoors, need to be kept clean and orderly. Assign space to each contracting crew.
Use proper tie-off techniques for ladders. Secure scaffolding properly and restrict access. Harness and tie-off roofers.
Inspect the interior work to assure proper waste removal. Material such as sheet rock scrap accumulates in minutes causing trip hazards. Sweep up screws and nails quickly. Keep five-gallon buckets against walls rather than the middle of floors.
In other words, consider what might present a trip hazard, how falls can be prevented, and what material might create a slipping problem. Remove the hazards and install guards as needed. You’ll receive a reduced premium in return.
