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Give me a toolbox talk on working at heights

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A toolbox talk for working at heights should emphasize that falls are a leading cause of serious injury and death, and that the job must be planned before work starts. A site-specific fall protection plan should identify fall hazards, the tasks involved, the equipment to be used, and the procedures for selecting, assembling, maintaining, inspecting, using, and dismantling ladders, scaffolds, platforms, and fall protection systems. The safest approach is to follow the hierarchy of controls: eliminate the fall hazard where possible, use passive protection such as guardrails and covers, then use restraint or arrest systems when needed. [1] [2] [14]

Key hazards to discuss:

  • Unguarded edges, roof edges, floor openings, skylights, and leading edges
  • Improper scaffold construction or use
  • Unsafe portable ladders and climbing while carrying materials
  • Damaged fall protection equipment, anchors, or access equipment
  • Slippery surfaces, wind, ice, debris, uneven ground, and overhead power lines
  • Dropped tools, materials, and suspended loads striking workers below

[2] [12] [4] For fall protection, workers must be protected whenever they are exposed to applicable trigger heights or special hazards. OSHA construction rules require protection at unprotected sides and edges using guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems, and training must be provided so workers can recognize fall hazards and use protection correctly. Guardrails are preferred where feasible because they are passive protection and also help protect workers below from falling objects. Where guardrails cannot be provided, use properly selected personal fall restraint or personal fall arrest systems with full-body harnesses and suitable anchor points. [15] [10] [13]

Edge protection should include standard guardrails, covers over openings, warning barriers or control zones where permitted, and clear identification of unprotected edges. Guardrails should be properly constructed, with top rails about 42 inches high and mid-rails installed. Toe boards, screens, or mesh should be used where there is a risk of tools or materials falling over the edge. [1] [10] [13]

Ladder safety points:

  • Use the right ladder for the task and inspect it before use
  • Do not use damaged ladders or ladders on slippery or unstable surfaces
  • Maintain three points of contact and do not carry tools or materials while climbing
  • Do not use ladders, planks, or other devices on scaffolds or aerial lifts to gain extra height
  • Set ladders up according to manufacturer instructions and OSHA requirements

[2] [6] [15] Scaffolding safety points:

  • Scaffolds must be erected, altered, and inspected by a competent person
  • Inspect scaffolds at the start of each shift and after any event that could affect structural integrity
  • Provide safe access such as ladders or stair towers; do not climb cross braces unless designed for access
  • Install guardrails and toeboards on open sides and ends as required
  • Ensure scaffolds are plumb, level, fully braced, on firm footing, and not overloaded
  • Use mesh, netting, barricades, or exclusion zones where people may pass below

[11] [11] [16] Harness, lanyard, and anchorage inspection must be done before each use and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remove defective equipment from service immediately. Inspect harness webbing and stitching for cuts, tears, abrasion, fraying, stretching, mold, or chemical damage; check lanyards for cuts, tears, damaged stitching, deformed fittings, and deployed shock packs; and verify snap hooks function properly. Anchor points must be suitable for strength, stability, and location, and workers should avoid tying off to guardrails, ladders, scaffolds, piping, conduit, vents, or other unsuitable structures. [7] [7] [9]

Dropped object prevention must be part of the talk. Secure tools and materials, keep platforms and elevated surfaces tidy, stack materials so they cannot slide or topple, and establish barricaded exclusion zones below overhead work. Use toe boards, debris nets, catch platforms, or overhead protection where needed. Never work under suspended loads, and ensure lifting and hoisting equipment is inspected and loads are stable before moving them. Hard hats are required where there is a risk of falling objects. [6] [6] [6]

Risk assessment and hazard identification should be completed before work starts, repeated immediately before the task, and updated whenever conditions change. Workers should identify fall exposures, access and egress issues, weather, surface conditions, nearby power lines, dropped-object hazards, rescue obstacles, and any condition that could endanger rescuers. Workers must report unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, or concerns about the rescue plan or their training before starting work. Safe work procedures should define the task sequence, equipment to be used, anchor locations, exclusion zones, communication methods, and stop-work criteria. [4] [5] [8]

PPE to cover in the toolbox talk:

  • Full-body harness and compatible lanyard or SRL when required
  • Head protection
  • Eye protection
  • High-visibility clothing as needed
  • Gloves and safety footwear
  • Any task-specific rescue equipment and first-aid supplies

[4] [14] An emergency rescue plan is mandatory for work at height where a fall arrest system is used or where rescue may be needed. The plan must be written, site-specific, reviewed before work begins, and posted or readily available. It should identify rescue roles, communication methods and backup communication, rescue equipment, anchor points, access routes, first-aid arrangements, emergency contacts, and procedures for clearing and securing the area. Do not rely solely on calling 911 or local emergency services. A suspended worker must be rescued immediately because suspension trauma can develop within minutes and death may occur in less than 30 minutes. [3] [8] [3]

For OSHA compliance, the toolbox talk should remind workers and supervisors that the main construction fall protection rules include 29 CFR 1926\.501 for fall protection requirements, 1926\.502 for system criteria and practices, 1926\.503 for training, 1926\.451 for scaffolds, 1926\.1053 for ladders, and 1926\.1051 for stairways and ladders. In practical terms, compliance means protecting workers at unprotected sides and edges, holes, wall openings, roofs, scaffold platforms, and other elevated work areas; using compliant systems; inspecting equipment; and documenting training. [15] [15] [15]

Suggested close-out message for the talk: If you see an unprotected edge, damaged ladder, unsafe scaffold, bad anchor point, missing guardrail, dropped-object hazard, or any condition you do not understand, stop work and report it immediately. No task at height starts until the hazards are controlled, the right equipment is in place, and the rescue plan is understood by everyone involved.

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Sources used for this answer

[1] Toolbox Talk: The Fatal Four in Construction - Falls

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# THE FATAL FOUR IN CONSTRUCTION - FALLS ## Date Posted: 12/12/2023 Statistically, construction sites are one of the country's most dangerous workplaces, with one in every five deaths occurring in construction as well as being a WA Top 10 rule violation. Falls are the number one cause of construction worker fatalities, accounting for more than one-third (34%) of all deaths in the industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), deaths from falls have continued to increase over the past several years. In Washington State alone, there were 17 deaths from falls from 2017-2022. ## WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY FALL HAZARDS IN CONSTRUCTION? The major types of fall hazards in a general construction setting are: • Unprotected roof edges, roof, and floor openings, structural steel beams creating leading edges, etc. Falls from roofs account for 34% of deaths - all of which were preventable! • Improper scaffold construction. • Unsafe portable ladders. Falls from unsecured ladders result in approximately 100 deaths annually across the country! ## HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FALLS? Washington State L&I has developed a comprehensive campaign to prevent falls in construction. The elements described below are directly taken from that campaign: ## PLAN AHEAD TO GET THE JOB DONE SAFELY When working from heights, employers must plan projects to ensure that it is done safely. Begin by deciding how the job will be done, what tasks will be involved, and what safety equipment may be needed to complete each task. Utilize a Fall Protection Work Plan to assist in planning for work at height. When estimating the cost of a job, employers should include safety equipment and plan to have all the necessary equipment and tools available at the construction site. For example, in a roofing job, consider all the different fall hazards, such as holes or skylights and leading edges, then plan and select fall protection suitable to that work, such as personal fall arrest systems

[2] Toolbox Talk: Anchorage Selection

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# ANCHORAGE SELECTION Date Posted: 05/31/2024 WAC [redacted identifier] defines anchorage as "A secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards, or deceleration devices..." Insufficient anchorage strength and inappropriate anchorage connection are two common mistakes with fall protection equipment. While anchorage connectors are essential tools for keeping workers safe while working at height, they are only effective if selected and used correctly. WAC 296-880-[redacted postal code] states that anchorages must be "capable of supporting at least 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN) per employee attached if using a self-retracting lifeline that limits the free fall distance to two feet or less or a shock absorbing lanyard that restricts the force on the body to 900 lbs or less. For all other systems, anchor points must be rated at 5000 lbs. ## WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ANCHOR POINTS? Fall protection anchors and anchorage connectors must be independent and capable of supporting 5,000 lbs. per worker attached, or they may be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of a qualified person as of a complete personal fall arrest system that maintains a safety factor of at least two times the maximum arresting force. In addition, anchors must be located high enough for a worker to avoid contact with a lower level fall occur. Anchor points can either be engineered or non-engineered. Anchors can be permanently installed for areas accessed often or portable for temporary anchor points. Permanent anchors are typically constructed from durable, heavy-duty, and corrosion-resistant materials for extended use and longevity. part should a - Non-Engineered: Non-engineered anchors are not designed by a qualified person. These anchor points may include attachment points installed specifically for fall protection or existing structural components for connecting lanyards and harnesses. These anchor points must meet the OSHA 5,000-pound requirement and be carefully examined

[3] Lives in the Balance: Immigrants and Workers at Elevated Heights at Greatest Risk in Construction

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# Appendix A Eight OSHA standards that protect workers at elevated heights. • General requirements for all types of scaffolding. 29 CFR 1926.451. This standard has eight subsections governing: (a) scaffold capacity; (b) scaffold platform construction; (c) criteria for supported scaffolds (e.g. guys, braces, and poles and frames); (d) criteria for suspension scaffolds (e.g. outrigger beams, cornice hooks, parapet clamps, counterweights and tiebacks), (e) access requirements (e.g. "hook-on ladders shall be position so as not to tip the scaffold,"); (f) scaffold use (e.g. specifications for clearance between scaffolds and power lines, scaffolds must be inspected before each work shift); (g) fall protection requirements (e.g. requirements for personal fall arrest systems and guardrails; and (h) falling object protection (e.g. toe board requirements and criteria). • Fall protection scope/applications/definitions. 29 CFR 1926.501. Prohibits unprotected sides and edges with guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest system. Protects workers in hoist areas, workers near wall openings and holes including skylights, workers near excavation edges, workers toiling near dangerous equipment, workers on the face of formwork or reinforcing steel, workers on roofs, engaged in pre-cast concrete erection. Requires the use of guardrails, fences, barricades and/or personal fall arrest systems in these areas and sets criteria for such equipment. - Fall protection systems criteria and practices. CFR 1926.502. Contains provisions governing guardrail systems, such as required height of guardrails above the working surface; requirements for mid-rails and mesh and screens; requirements for safety nets; requirements for lifelines and lanyards; requirements for personal fall arrest systems; provisions governing warning line systems; control line requirements; requirements for covers for holes in floors, roofs, and other walking/working surfaces; requirements for protection against fa

[4] Toolbox Talk: Planning Ahead for Fall Protection

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# PLANNING AHEAD FOR FALL PROTECTION Date Posted: 02/17/2024 According to the Labor and Industries Department of Safety and Health (DOSH), Falls are the number one serious hazard for workers in most industries that can result in injuries or even death and accounted for 17 fatalities from 2017-2022 in Washington State. From a national perspective and according to statistics published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 351 workplace fatalities in construction nationally due to falls to a lower level in 2020. ## HOW AND WHERE FALLS ARE OCCURRING According to a recent national survey conducted by the BLS: - 17% of the workers who fell were loading and unloading material when the fall occurred. • 13% of the workers who fell were involved in operating, repairing, cleaning, or installing equipment. • 10% of the workers were performing carpentry tasks. • The remaining activities that resulted in falls included painting, welding, roof work, sheet metal work, and bricklaying. The BLS study also asked participants to describe their specific movements during the fall. - 28% percent of the workers who fell said they were climbing up or down from an elevated position or location. • 13% of the workers were walking at the time they fell. • 11% of the workers were stepping from one surface to another. - 10% of the workers were moving backward. Adequate fall protection and equipment use could have prevented most of the fatalities and injuries reported in the BLS study. ## UNSAFE ACTS AND UNSAFE CONDITIONS The risk of falls is virtually present in every single workplace. However, the factors that can lead to a fall vary greatly. Many unsafe acts by employees as well as unsafe conditions, lead to fall incidents. Falls often result from series of contributing factors. They are often the result of multiple dangerous conditions and hazardous actions combined. Because of this, it is essential to look at unsafe conditions and unsafe acts to recognize dange

[5] Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan

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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

[6] Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan

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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

[7] Toolbox Talk: Falling Objects

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# FALLING OBJECTS Date Posted: 01/30/2024 Each day, countless workplaces are subjected to the risk of falling objects. According to a recent survey conducted by the Center for Construction and Research and Training (CPWR), in 2022, falling/flying objects accounted for approximately 30% of injuries on construction sites. Falling objects from above cause severe injuries and account for fatalities every year. Falling object occur due to: incidents • A lack of hazard communication. • Improper storage of materials. • Improper protection of elevated storage areas. • Not moving or securing loads properly when protective headgear is not worn. • Improper housekeeping. Workers' most common injuries from falling objects are bruises, fractures, strains, and sprains. The objects that commonly fall range from large items such as roof trusses and steel beams to items such as fasteners and small hand tools. Understanding these hazards and implementing effective control measures is crucial in maintaining the safety of workers and bystanders alike. small ## COMMON FALLING OBJECT HAZARDS Tools, materials, and other objects can fall from roofs, cranes, and scaffolds, and even objects falling from lower levels, such as a truck bed or dolly, can lead to injuries. Several factors increase the risk of more severe injuries, including the object's shape and where on the body the person is struck. The height at which the object falls and the weight of the object are also extremely important, with injury severity increasing as the height and weight of the falling object increase. - of Objects during Work at Height: As workers perform tasks at elevated positions, items such • Dislodgement as tiles can be dislodged from a rooftop, causing hazards to those • Falling Objects due to Environmental Factors or Deterioration: Harsh weather conditions can lead to objects like scaffold planks cast off scaffolds in robust winds. Similarly, fixtures ductwork might fall from a ceiling due t

[8] Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan

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# Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan (cont.) ## What should be included in a working at heights rescue plan? (cont.) Other key considerations include determining how a rescue will be initiated and making sure the appropriate equipment is available and maintained. The ability to respond very quickly and retrieve the worker is essential. Plan for situations where the worker is injured, including procedures for first-aid, medical treatment, and getting the injured worker to the hospital. The quickest route to the hospital should be determined. In locations far from a hospital, additional measures may be needed to make sure a worker can receive appropriate medical attention, as required. Immediately before work begins, another assessment should be done to ensure that the rescue plan is still appropriate and that no additional hazards or factors have been overlooked. Check and follow any legislative requirements regarding rescue at heights in your jurisdiction. ## What personal protective equipment (PPE) do rescuers need to use? The required personal protective equipment will depend on the hazards and risks present and should be specified in the fall rescue plan. Common personal protective equipment includes fall protection equipment, head protection, eye protection, high-visibility apparel, gloves, safety footwear, and other equipment. A first-aid kit and rescue equipment and accessories will also be required. ## How are hazards identified and risks assessed for a rescue at heights? Developing a systematic and comprehensive method for identifying hazards and assessing risk is essential. Risk assessments should be done well in advance and again immediately before and during the work as conditions can change. The team responsible for developing the rescue plan needs to identify all hazards that may cause harm to workers during the work and a potential rescue. Hazards may include: - sources that may damage equipment or infrastructure, such as the pr

[9] Toolbox Talk: Supported Scaffolding

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# SUPPORTED SCAFFOLDING (cont.) ## SCAFFOLD HAZARDS (cont.) • Collapse of the scaffold, caused by instability or overloading: The proper erection of a scaffold is essential in preventing this hazard. Before erecting the scaffold, several factors must be accounted for. The weight the scaffold will be required to hold, including the weight of the scaffold itself, materials, and workers, shall be considered. Foundation stability, placement of scaffold planks, distance from the scaffold to the work surface, and tie-in requirements are just a few of the other items that must be considered. • Being struck by falling tools, work materials, or debris: Workers on scaffolds are not the only ones exposed to scaffold-related hazards. Many individuals have been injured or killed due to being struck by materials or tools that have fallen from scaffold platforms. To protect against this hazard, install toe boards or netting on work platforms to prevent these items from falling to the ground or lower-level work areas. Another option is to erect barricades that physically prevent individuals from walking under work platforms and dangerous areas. • Electrocution due to the proximity of the scaffold to overhead power lines: A minimum of 10' (might be more depending on voltage) must be maintained between the scaffold and electrical hazards. The power company must de-energize or adequately insulate the hazard if this distance cannot be maintained. Coordination between the power company and the company erecting/using the scaffold cannot be overstated. ## INSPECTING THE SCAFFOLD Inspecting scaffolding before each use is crucial to ensure it is safe and secure. A daily inspection should be performed to check the guardrails, connectors, fastenings, footing, tie-ins, and bracing. If any component is damaged, it should be repaired or replaced immediately. A competent person with experience in scaffolding safety should perform the inspection. Use Daily Scaffold Inspection tags. The tag s

[10] Toolbox Talk: Choosing the Best Fall Protection

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# CHOOSING THE BEST FALL PROTECTION ELIMINATE PASSIVE RESTRAINT ARREST ADMIN Date Posted: 01/27/2024 According to the WA Department of Labor and Industries, Falls account for more than 1/3 of all fatalities in Construction in WA State. (36% between 2018-2022 Labor and Industries). In 2020, nationally, there were 351 fatal falls to a lower level out of 1,008 construction fatalities (BLS data). These fatalities are preventable. Unfortunately, all fall protection methods are not equal, and often when choosing fall protection solutions, many tend to go directly to "tying-off." This is not the best choice as there is a hierarchy of solutions that should always be evaluated - in order-to determine which is the safest, most effective one. Fall hazards are foreseeable, and the best way to prevent falls is to utilize the Hierarchy of Fall Protection. ## ELIMINATE A fall hazard that doesn't exist can't cause an injury, so the best solution is to ensure the risks are eliminated. The first step in the Hierarchy of Fall Protection is elimination. Elimination means finding an approach to a task that does not place a worker in a position where they could be at risk of a fall injury. Hazard elimination is completely removing a hazard via construction or maintenance. It means that the risk of falling has been completely prevented. Example: have a worker use a light bulb changer pole to replace light bulbs rather than have that worker climb a ladder to reach the bulb. ## PASSIVE The second step is Passive protection. Passive protection is generally considered to provide a higher level of safety since the opportunity for error is lesser than using personal protective (PPE). Passive fall prevention includes physical barriers that keep workers away from edges that present fall hazards. equipment Example: Including guardrails or railings along the edge of an upper level that keeps workers away from high-risk edges. The requirements for guardrail systems are found in WAC 296

[11] Fall Protection - Fall Protection Plan (General)

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# Fall Protection - Fall Protection Plan (General) (cont.) ## What is working at heights? (cont.) - elevated work platforms, - fixed suspended work platforms, - swing staging, - boatswain's chairs, - aerial devices, - suspended equipment, or - personnel carrying equipment (e.g., personnel lifting units raised by cranes or hoists) Occupational health and safety laws generally require action when a worker has the potential to fall about 3 metres (10 feet). Check with your jurisdiction as exact requirements do vary. Note that most jurisdictions require the use of specific fall protection measures before, or in addition to, personal protective equipment (PPE). These measures generally include the use of some of the following: - fixed barriers (e.g., handrails, guardrails) - surface opening protection (e.g., covers, guardrails, etc.) - warning barriers or control zones - fall or travel restraint systems (i.e., a system to prevent a worker from falling from a work position, or from travelling to an unguarded edge from which the worker could fall) - fall containment system (e.g., safety nets) - fall arrest systems (ie., a system that will stop a worker's fall before the worker hits the surface below) There may also be specific legal requirements around use of equipment like ladders and scaffolding. ## What are fall protection plans and why are they important? A fall protection plan is a general term for the policy and procedures used to identify fall hazards, and the measures taken to prevent injury. Included in this plan is selecting, assembling, maintaining, inspecting, using, and dismantling equipment such as ladders, scaffolds, or platforms used for working at heights as well as any fall protection equipment. Emergency procedures for rescuing fallen workers (including those who are hanging in midair by their harness) are also needed. Fall protection plans must be specific to each site where workers are at heights. There is "no one size fits all" plan.

[12] Fall Protection - Working at Heights Rescue Plan

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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

[13] Toolbox Talk: Inspection of Fall Protection Equipment

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# INSPECTION OF FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT Date Posted: 09/07/2016 It is vital to inspect your Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS), Personal Fall Restraint System (PFRS), or Positioning Device System (PDS) in order to ensure that it not defective. is All components of Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS), Personal Fall Restraint Systems (PFRS) and Positioning Device Systems (PDS) shall be inspected prior to each use according to manufacturer's specifications for mildew, wear, damage, and other deterioration. Defective components shall be removed from service if their function or strength has been adversely affected. Safety nets shall be inspected at least once a week according to manufacturer's specifications for wear, damage, and other deterioration. Safety nets shall also inspected after any occurrence which could affect the integrity of the safety net system. Defective components shall be removed from service. Defective nets shall not be used. be PFAS, PFRS, PDS, and their components shall be used only for employee protection and not to hoist materials. The following is a summary of what to look for when inspecting your gear: ## ANCHORAGES • Ensure that the proper number and correct size of nails or screws are used. • Installation: follow manufacturer's specifications • Make sure that the ring swing freely • Inspect for any unusual shape or wear ## LANYARDS AND ROPE GRABS • No cuts or tears in the fabric or stitching - Snap hooks spring back when released • No deformation or gouges in fittings • Shock pack intact and no evidence of deployment • Ensure that there is no damage to the wear, or other characteristics that will affect the product's performance ## HARNESS • No cuts or tears in the fabric or stitching • No abrasion, fraying, stretching, mold, or chemical damage to fabric or stitching - Back "D" ring should be between the shoulder blades • If you see red, take the equipment out of service. Red tags are seen in shock packs and in the

[14] Toolbox Talk: Guardrails: General Fall Protection and Awareness

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Construction Prevent Falls: Guardrails Toolbox Talk NIOSH CPWR [● Falls are a leading cause of construction injuries and fatalities. Workers can fall from ladders, scaffolds, vehicles, heavy equipment, aerial lifts, platforms, and roofs, and through holes or openings in floors or roofs. Guardrails can prevent a fall. ## Bill's Story Bill was repairing an air conditioning unit on the roof of a three-story building. He was about a foot from an unguarded edge. When he stood up, he lost his balance. Bill fell 23 feet to the cement floor below and died. *What caused this incident? - How could this have been prevented? * Have you ever fallen because of a missing guardrail, or do you know someone who has? If so, what happened? ## How can we stay safe today? What will we do at the worksite to prevent fall injuries? ## Remember This • Your employer must provide every employee with training on how to recognize a fall hazard and on fall protection. • Guardrails, safety nets, and/or personal fall-arrest systems must be in place if there is a risk for falls. • Guardrails are required on work surfaces where workers are at risk of falls greater than 6 feet. - Guardrails must be 42 inches high (+/- 3") and have a mid-rail. • Body harnesses with lanyards and secure attachment points provided by employers must be used if guardrails cannot be provided. OSHA Standards: 1926.501 and 1926.503 CD C National and Health NIOSH® CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION CPWR 【O THE CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH AND TRAINING

[15] Tool Box Talk: Guardrails for Fall Protection

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MIOSHA Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration ## Special points of interest: • Guardrails are a positive conventional fall protection system. • Guardrails are needed on any wall openings 18 inches or greater in width and 30 inches in height with exposure to a fall hazard of 6 feet or more. • Top rails system must support 200 lbs. or greater downward and outward force. # Tool Box Talk Guardrails for Fall Protection ## Duty to Have Protection: Each employee shall be protected from falling from exposed sides or edges, and objects falling from work areas 6 feet above lower levels. The protection can be guardrails, personal fall arrest systems, safety nets, or covers. Guardrails are the preferred method as they are passive systems that protect workers below from falling objects and workers on the elevated work area from falling off. ## Guardrails: Guardrails are an accepted form of Fall Protection in many situations: Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Bridges. Guardrails can be made of many different types of materials: wood, steel, wire rope, composites. The guardrail top rail must be able to withstand 200lbs of downward and outward force. The guardrail mid-rail must be able to withstand 150lbs of downward and outward force. Top rails must be 42 inches tall plus or minus 3 inches as measured adjacent to the rail. Mid-rails should midway between top rail and working surface. Screens, mesh or toe-boards must be used if there is the possibility of things falling over the edge. Guardrails must be used when wall openings are larger than 18" wide and 30" tall. Window and door openings. WOOD STRUCTURAL STEEL Posts and Rails Posts and Rails 2" x 4" stock 2" x 2" X 3/8" az Intermediate 42" Intermediate Rail Halfway Rail Halfway 8 Ft. Maximum 8 Ft. Maximum Between Posts Between Posts PIPE TOEBOARDS Intermediate Posts and Rails Rail Halfway 1 1/2" Dia. Pipe 42" Intermediate Rail Halfway 4" Toeboard 8 Ft. Maximum Between Posts 1/4" Gap M

[16] Toolbox Talk: Scaffold Safety

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# SCAFFOLD SAFETY Date Posted: 08/27/2016 Every year nearly 100 fatalities and 10,000 injuries occur on scaffolding across the country, despite numerous safety regulations aimed to prevent such incidents. There are a number of different scaffold types, having different rules and regulations surrounding their assembly, fall prevention requirements, and inspection procedures. ## GENERAL RULES FOR ALL SCAFFOLDING • All employees who work on scaffolding must receive training from their employer. • A competent person shall be clearly identified for all scaffolding work. • Guardrails & toeboards shall be installed on all open sides/ends of scaffolding platforms 10 feet or more above ground or floor level. • Employees shall not climb cross braces or end frames unless end frames are designed and constructed to be climbed. An access ladder, stair tower equivalent safe access shall be provided for all scaffolding. or • - Do not use a ladder or other device on scaffolding platforms to increase height or reach. • Never use scaffolding until it is inspected and signed off by the competent person. ## INSPECTIONS • At the beginning of each shift scaffolding must be inspected by a competent person. In addition, scaffolding must also be inspected after an event that may have compromised the structural integrity of the system. ## ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING SCAFFOLDING. • Scaffolding must be plumb, level, erected and used on a firm, level surface and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold without settling or displacement. • Wheels or base plates must be used to establish a firm, level base. • - Mud sills must be used if the scaffolding is constructed on soft or unstable ground. • Where people are required to work or pass under or near any scaffolding, a mesh screen shall be provided between the toeboard and the top guardrail. • Planks shall not extend over the end supports less than 6 inches or more than 12 inches. • Free-standing scaffolding towers shal

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