Fall Prevention Guide

Planning Ahead

Before starting work at heights, perform a thorough job hazard analysis to identify potential fall hazards. Plan the work to include appropriate fall protection methods based on the specific tasks to be done.

• Identify all possible fall hazards during the planning phase.
• Choose the right fall protection equipment and systems for the job.

Housekeeping & Walking Surfaces

Keep all work areas clean and dry to minimize slip, trip, and fall hazards. Maintain safe walking surfaces according to OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.22).

• Mark wet floors clearly with signs or cones.
• Secure cords, hoses, and other obstacles to prevent trips.
• Provide adequate lighting for all walking surfaces.
• Maintain floors, stairs, and ladders in good condition.

Ladder Safety

Follow OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1926.1053) to ensure ladder use is safe and effective.

• Choose the right ladder type and length for the task.
• Maintain three points of contact while climbing and descending.
• Set ladders at a 4:1 angle — one foot away from the wall for every four feet high.
• Do not overreach or lean too far to either side.
• Inspect ladders before use for damage or defects.
• Secure the ladder at the top and extend at least 3 feet above the landing surface.

Scaffolding

Scaffolds must be erected and inspected by a competent person according to OSHA standards (29 CFR 1926.451).

• Ensure platforms are fully planked with no gaps.
• Install guardrails on all open sides of the scaffold.
• Never use makeshift scaffolds or unstable platforms.
• Inspect scaffolds daily before use.
• Provide safe and proper access to all scaffold platforms.

Roof Work

Assess roof slope and hazards before starting work. Choose appropriate fall protection based on roof type and conditions.

• Use guardrails, personal fall arrest systems (PFAS), or warning lines as required.
• Establish controlled access zones when necessary.
• Cover skylights and roof openings securely.
• Be aware of weather conditions that increase fall risk.

Floor Openings & Holes

Cover or guard all floor openings to prevent falls. Covers must be clearly marked and secured so they cannot be accidentally displaced.

• Replace covers immediately after removal.

Aerial Lifts & Elevated Platforms

Follow safety procedures when using aerial lifts and elevated platforms.

• Inspect equipment before use.
• Stand only on platform floors — never on guardrails or other parts.
• Do not lean out of the platform.
• Always use a personal fall arrest system tied to the basket or platform.
• Never belt off to adjacent structures.

Training Your Crew

Ensure that fall protection practices are understood and followed by all workers through training and communication.

• Have a competent person on site to oversee fall protection.
• Conduct toolbox talks and new employee orientation on fall hazards.
• Train workers to recognize hazards and report near-misses.

Quick Reference: The 5 Things That Kill

• Leading edges: Use guardrails and PFAS to protect exposed edges.
• Holes/Openings: Always cover and mark holes to prevent falls.
• Ladders: Use proper ladder safety techniques to avoid falls.
• Scaffolds: Erect scaffolds properly with guardrails.
• Roofs: Always assess and protect against roof fall hazards.