completed fall protection plan for BC

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# The following is a list of the products and erection situations on this job: (cont.) ## Detailing (cont.) - VI. Enforcement Constant awareness of and respect for fall hazards, and compliance with all safety rules are considered conditions of employment. The jobsite Superintendent, as well as individuals in the Safety and Personnel Department, reserve the right to issue disciplinary warnings to employees, up to and including termination, for failure to follow the guidelines of this program. - VII. Accident Investigations - All accidents that result in injury to workers, regardless of their nature, shall be investigated and reported. It is an integral part of any safety program that documentation take place as soon as possible so that the cause and means of prevention can be identified to prevent a reoccurrence. - In the event that an employee falls or there is some other related, serious incident occurring, this plan shall be reviewed to determine if additional practices, procedures, or training need to be implemented to prevent similar types of falls or incidents from occurring. - VIII. Changes to Plan - Any changes to the plan will be approved by (name of the qualified person). This plan shall be reviewed by a qualified person as the job progresses to determine if additional practices, procedures or training needs to be implemented by the competent person to improve or provide additional fall protection. Workers shall be notified and trained, if necessary, in the new procedures. A copy of this plan and all approved changes shall be maintained at the jobsite. - Sample Fall Protection Plan for Residential Construction (Insert Company Name) - This Fall Protection Plan Is Specific For The Following Project: Location of Job Date Plan Prepared or Modified Plan Prepared By Plan Approved By Plan Supervised By The following Fall Protection Plan is a sample program prepared for the prevention of injuries associated with falls. A Fall Protection Plan must be dev…

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CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de securite au travail Fall Protection # Fall Protection - Fall Arrest Systems ## On this page What is meant by fall arrest system? What should be considered when using a fall arrest system? How can bottoming out be prevented? How is the total fall clearance distance calculated? What is the pendulum effect and how to reduce it? What is suspension trauma and how to address it? ## What is meant by fall arrest system? Fall arrest system is the name given to the group of equipment, components, and systems used to arrest (stop) a fall from height. These systems can be used to protect workers who that are working at heights. A fall arrest system should only be used when other methods of fall protection are not available or possible, including engineering controls (e.g., elevated platform), guardrails, safety nets, or travel restraint. Fall arrest systems should: - keep the free fall distance as short as possible, - minimize the forces of the fall experienced by the worker, - protect the worker from striking other surfaces while falling, and - protect the worker from the pendulum effect or swing falls. See other OSH Answers documents for more information on fall protection, including fall protection plan. Always use the type of fall arrest system(s) required by your local jurisdiction. and standards such as CSA Z259.17 "Selection and use of active fall-protection equipment and system", Z259.12 "Connecting components for personal fall arrest systems", Z259.16 "Design of active fall- protection systems", and others. NOTE that other requirements may be needed that are not discussed in this document. Always consult the legislation that applies in your situation and with your jurisdiction for complete information. ## What should be considered when using a fall arrest system? It is important to assess the hazards a worker may be exposed to if they fall, and the impact of…

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# What are elements to consider when writing a fall protection plan? (cont.) ## Does the fall protection plan include a rescue plan? (cont.) - Designate, educate, and train those who will conduct the rescue. - Identify on-site first aid personnel and include all contact information. - List the first aid equipment thatmust be on site. - Provide contact information for local emergency medical and fire services, if needed. - Identify all emergency exits and access routes within the worksite. - Identify all available systems of communications. Make sure there is a backup system for the primary mode of communication. - Include procedures for rescue, including rope rescue, retrieval lines, location of anchor points, etc. - Include procedures for using any powered mobile equipment, mechanical hoisting systems or elevating devices that may be required during the rescue. - Detail procedures necessary to clear and secure work areas while they remain unsafe or if any ongoing work would obstruct a rescue. - Educate and train workers performing work at height so they understand what they must do after a fall and during a rescue operation. - Be reviewed and amended on a regular schedule, after relevant changes to the worksite, and after all rescues or related incidents. Fact sheet last revised: 2023-01-25 ## Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information. Fall Protection - Fall Protection Plan (General) CCOHS

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# Fall Protection - Anchors (cont.) ## What should you know about the strength requirements of anchors? (cont.) The load applied to the anchor depends on the fall protection system used, such as fall restraint versus fall arrest systems. For example, in British Columbia, a temporary fall restraint system's anchor must be designed to hold a load in every direction of at least 3.5 kN (800 lbs) or four times the weight of the worker to be connected to the system. For a temporary fall arrest system, the anchor must be designed to hold a load in every direction of at least 22 kN (5 000 lbs) or two times the maximum arrest force. A permanent anchor for a personal fall protection system must have a load capacity in any direction of at least 22 kN (5,000 lbs). (From BC OHS Regulation Part 11: Fall Protection, Section 11.6) The strength required may also depend on whether an energy-absorbing device is used. For details that apply to your jurisdiction, please see Fall Protection - Legislation for Anchor Strength. ## What should be examined when inspecting anchor points? Visually inspect anchors for damage, corrosion, and suitability before connecting the fall protection equipment. Permanent anchors should be inspected by a competent person at least once a year or according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep records of the inspections, including the date of inspection, name, and signature of the person who did the inspection and any modifications or repairs made to the anchor point. Always have anchors tested after a fall for their stability and strength by a professional engineer competent in fall protection systems or the manufacturer. ## What are tips to follow when using anchors? - Identify the location of anchor points and include which anchor points are to be used during the current work in the fall protection plan. - Make sure that the anchor(s) used are appropriate in terms of strength, stability, and location for the type of work being done. - Make s…

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# Fall Protection - Legislation for Training Requirements (cont.) ## What are the sources of legislation regarding fall protection training? (cont.) <table><tr><th>Jurisdiction</th><th>Act, regulations, etc.</th><th>Elements (general summary) (For more details, consult the legislation directly.)</th></tr><tr><td>Federal (Canada)</td><td>Canada Occupational Safety And Health Regulations, SOR/86-304, Sections 12.2</td><td>The employer must make sure every employee who uses protection equipment is trained by a qualified person in the use, operation, and maintenance of that equipment, and includes training about the fall-protection plan and in emergency procedures if there is a risk of drowning. Keep copies of the instruction and training.</td></tr><tr><td>Alberta</td><td>Occupational Health and Safety Code, Reg. 191/2021 Part 9, Fall Protection Section 141</td><td>The employer must train a worker in the safe use of the fall protection system before use. Training includes review of legislation, the fall protection plan, fall protection methods required at the work site, identification of fall hazards, assessment and selection of anchors, instruction on correct use of connecting hardware, effects of a fall on the body, pre-use inspections, emergency response procedures, practice, and other control measures.</td></tr><tr><td>British Columbia</td><td>Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, B.C. Reg. 296/97 Part 11, Fall Protection, Section 11.2</td><td>Employers must make sure the worker is instructed in the fall protection system and the procedures to follow before entering an area where there is a risk of falling.</td></tr><tr><td>Manitoba</td><td>Workplace Safety and Health Regulation, Man. Reg. 217/2006 Part 14, Fall Protection, Sections 14.2 and 14.11 And</td><td>Employers must develop and implement safe work procedures, train workers in these procedures, and make sure workers comply. Training must address guardrails and fall protection system, how to assembl…

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# Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan (cont.) ## How are hazards identified and risks assessed for a rescue at heights? (cont.) Before starting a task involving working at heights, all workers (including rescuers) should immediately report any concerns to the supervisor. If conditions or factors are a risk to workers or may impact a rescue, this concern needs to be addressed before the work begins. If rescuers have any concerns with their training or the rescue plan, they also need to report this to their supervisor so it can be addressed. Equipment used by workers and rescuers must be properly inspected and maintained, including before use. Any defective equipment must be replaced. Once all the hazards are identified and the risks are assessed, appropriate control measures need to be taken. The hierarchy of controls should be considered. It is important to continuously review and improve control measures to ensure their effectiveness. ## What methods and equipment can be used in a working at heights rescue? The rescue techniques and equipment must be specific for the working at heights task, including the hazards, where and how the rescue may occur, and other factors. When determining the appropriate rescue procedures, consult with experts on rescue at heights and ensure all rescuers have thorough training and experience with the selected methods. You can also reach out to your local fire department for guidance. Methods may include self-rescue, ladder rescue, elevating work platform rescue, using the lifeline to retrieve the worker, rescuers rappelling down to retrieve the worker, pulling a worker from an area below, using emergency equipment to reach the worker such as a crane basket or rope rescue. Methods must be suitable for the location. For example, planning on using a mechanical lift may not be appropriate when working where the ground is uneven (such as a forest) or where other materials may obstruct access to the worker's location. A…

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# What are elements to consider when writing a fall protection plan? Develop the fall protection plan by involving those individuals with direct experience and whose work will be most impacted. This involvement will allow for input from supervisors and workers whose work involves fall hazards. Involve the joint health and safety committee or representative during the plan development as well. Fall arrest planning includes the steps necessary to prevent the worker from hitting the ground, material, equipment, or lower level of a structure. Determine the fall clearance distance below the work area to make sure that if a worker falls, they do not hit the ground. Workers may swing from side to side when they fall (called the pendulum effect), which also must be taken into consideration. A worker who has fallen and is hanging suspended will need to be rescued by others. A site-specific fall protection plan will incorporate many items, including: - site location (address, description, work area, tasks) - site-specific fall hazards (e.g., maximum height(s), roof slope if applicable, proximity to power lines, ground cover, etc.) - type of fall protection to be used, - protection to be used, including anchor points, and clearance requirements - procedures for fall protection equipment inspection, set-up, use, and removal - any other requirements before beginning work (e.g., presence of first aid or rescue personnel, other safety equipment, barricades, etc.) - rescue procedures - worker sign off ## Who has responsibilities for fall hazards? An employer must: - Develop written fall protection policy and procedures relevant for the workplace. - Identify all areas where there is a potential of injury due to fall. - Prioritize using passive fall arrest systems, such as guardrails, travel restraint, or fall- restricting systems over only relying on personal fall arrest systems. - Develop fall arrest rescue procedures which detail how to return workers safely to…

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# Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan (cont.) ## What is a working at heights rescue plan? (cont.) Relying only on calling for local emergency services after an incident as a rescue plan is not appropriate. Workers who fall and become suspended in their fall arrest harness need to be rescued immediately. Suspension trauma (also referred to as orthostatic intolerance) involves blood pooling in the lower body, reducing the amount of oxygen available to the brain and other vital organs. It occurs when a worker hangs in the harness for too long. The harness may create pressure, preventing the blood from circulating, or the worker may be in shock, unconscious, or otherwise not able to move their legs, causing blood to pool in their lower limbs. This trauma can occur in minutes and can cause serious health effects such as damage to the brain, kidneys or other organs. Death may occur in less than 30 minutes. The worker may have sustained an injury from the fall or be unconscious and be unable to rescue themselves or assist the rescuers. A rescue may be needed if a worker experiences a medical emergency while working at heights, such as heat stroke, fainting, and cardiovascular or respiratory distress, and is unable to get down on their own or requires immediate medical assistance. The plan must also consider that the conditions or hazards that caused the fall may also be a risk to other workers, including the rescuers. ## What elements should a rescue plan include? Before a specific task begins, make sure that the plan covers any possible scenarios experienced at the specific worksite. Adjust and modify the rescue plan as needed. A rescue plan should include the following details: - Be written, reviewed and posted before work begins - Identify who will conduct the rescue and their roles and responsibilities - Include procedures for identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards - Outline training requirements for both rescue personnel and work…

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# Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan (cont.) ## What elements should a rescue plan include? (cont.) - Include procedures for: - rescue, including rope rescue, ladder rescue, retrieval lines, self-rescue, and location of anchor points - using any powered mobile equipment, mechanical hoisting systems or elevating devices that may be required during the rescue - first-aid and medical care for rescued or injured workers, including transport of the worker to the hospital - Identify the communication system that will be used. Make sure there is a backup system for the main method of communication - Identify all emergency exits and access routes within the worksite, including the roof and work area - Include procedures to clear and secure work areas that are unsafe or may interfere with a rescue - Provide contact information for local emergency medical and fire services, as appropriate (NOTE again: Relying only on calling local emergency services after an incident as a rescue plan is not appropriate.) - Review and update as needed (e.g., on a regular schedule, after changes to the worksite or tasks, and after a rescue or related incident) ## What should be included in a working at heights rescue plan? There are many factors to consider when developing a rescue plan. It is important to begin planning well before any work is done at heights to make sure the rescue plan is appropriate and that the rescue team is thoroughly trained. When developing the plan, involve qualified individuals competent in rescue at heights and those workers doing the work. Make sure the plan is specific for the job and considers the hazards, location, tasks being performed, environmental conditions, how and where a worker could fall and the type of rescue that would be needed, among other factors. Identify the hazards associated with the rescue. This information determines the rescue procedures, what equipment will be required, who will be on the rescue team, and w…

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# What are elements to consider when writing a fall protection plan? (cont.) ## Who has responsibilities for fall hazards? (cont.) - Inspect your personal fall protection system before each use. - Protect the protective equipment from damage where possible (e.g., make sure the lifeline or lanyard is protected from sharp edges, heat, flame, or corrosive substances). - Notify the supervisor or employer of any broken, defective, or missing protective equipment. - Be aware of your right to refuse unsafe work. ## Does the fall protection plan include training for those working at heights? Many jurisdictions require workers who will be working at heights to receive training. Ontario and Newfoundland both require this training to be delivered by approved providers. Please see the Fall Protection - Legislation for Training Requirements for more details. Even if training is not specifically required for those working at heights, it is still a very important part of fall protection. Selecting the proper personal protective equipment is complex and understanding how to wear and use the equipment is not always intuitive. Workers and employers must understand how and when their equipment should be maintained, and how to identify damage or incorrectly assembled systems. Users must also have a clear understanding of how to work safely on equipment such as elevated platforms, lifts and scaffolds. ## Does the fall protection plan include a rescue plan? Often after a fall is arrested, the worker remains suspended in the air and will need to be rescued by others. In other situations, the fallen worker could have injuries that require first- aid. A rescue plan will detail how to return fallen workers to a place of safety while keeping rescuers safe. Like other forms of emergency planning, it is essential that everyone understands their role and what they must do after a fall. Before beginning the at heights work, discuss the situation with local emergency services to see if…

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# Fall Protection - Safety Net Systems (cont.) ## What does your jurisdiction require? (cont.) When deciding on the use of a safety net, check your local legislation for requirements such as: - Is there a specified standard that your safety nets must meet such as ANSI/ASSE A10.11-2010 (R2016) Safety Requirements for Personnel Nets - Construction and Demolition Operations? - Is a qualified installer or a professional engineer required to certify the installation of the safety net? - Is testing by a professional engineer or other competent person required before the safety net can be used? - Is there a requirement to conduct any testing or for record keeping when using safety net? - Is there a requirement for fall protection training for workers? ## What should be done before using a safety net system? Create and follow a fall protection plan that outlines the various ways fall hazards will be controlled or eliminated at each worksite. The nature of the work and the worksite itself will determine whether safety nets can be used as a fall protection method for that specifc situation. For example, a fall protection plan should specify all procedures for: - assembling, maintaining, inspecting, using, and taking down the fall arrest system or personnel safety net - rescuing of a fallen worker suspended by a fall arrest system or caught by the safety net (if the worker is unable to return themselves to the ground or another safe surface) When selecting a safety net, consider: - whether it is being used to catch falling people or objects, or as a barrier to prevent falls - what is located in the areas above, below and around the safety net - the weight and type of load a safety net will need to support - the length of time the safety net will be used and the possible local weather conditions during that time - all manufacturer's specifications - local requirements for your jurisdiction related to safety net systems specifically, and fall protection in …

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# What are elements to consider when writing a fall protection plan? (cont.) ## Who has responsibilities for fall hazards? (cont.) - Educate and train workers and supervisors to understand and properly fulfill their role in fall protection and prevention. Workers should have easy access to policies and procedures so the directions can be reviewed when needed. - Make sure workers are instructed in all of the fall-protection methods or systems used and, in the post-fall rescue procedure before being allowed into an area where there is a risk of falling. - Make sure the fall-arresting system consists of the required components, including full body harness, self-retracting lanyard, energy absorbing lanyard or lanyard and energy absorber, and appropriate anchor point or horizontal life line. - Make sure all protective equipment, clothing or devices are provided, used, and maintained in good condition. - Make sure PPE is used effectively according to the policies and procedures, legal requirements, and the manufacturer's specifications. - Review and amend the fall protection plan when necessary, on a regular schedule. - Review and amend the fall protection plan after relevant workplace changes. - Review and improve the fall protection plan after each fall or near-miss incident. A supervisor must: - Make sure workers follow applicable legal requirements and the workplace policy and procedures regarding fall protection. - Inform workers about fall hazards and how to work safely at heights. - Make sure workers use and know how to wear the appropriate fall protection equipment. - Act on information provided by workers (e.g., safety concerns about the situation, when equipment is broken, defective, or missing, etc.). - Participate in fall protection planning where relevant and when requested. A worker must: worker must: - Alert the supervisor about previous unidentified fall hazards before beginning or continuing any work. - Participate in fall pr…

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CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Fall Protection # Fall Protection - Fall Protection Plan (General) ## On this page Why is fall protection planning important? What is working at heights? What are fall protection plans and why are they important? How do I know if my workplace should have a fall protection plan? What are some areas to examine during a hazard assessment for fall protection? What are elements to consider when writing a fall protection plan? Who has responsibilities for fall hazards? Does the fall protection plan include training for those working at heights? Does the fall protection plan include a rescue plan? ## Why is fall protection planning important? Falls are common causes of serious work related injuries and deaths. Fall protection planning can help to eliminate the hazards or control the risks associated with working near openings or at heights. This document will focus on working at heights. For information about falls on the same level, please see the OSH Answers document on the prevention of slips, trips and falls. ## What is working at heights? Working at heights is any work where a person could fall a distance and be injured. This event might include, for example, falling from a step ladder, off of a roof, or through an unguarded hole in the ground or floor. Fall protection may also be required when working above an open top tank, bin, hopper, or vat. Other situations that may require fall protection include the use of: forklift platforms, Fall Protection - Fall Protection Plan (General) CCOHS