What type of fall protection should be used while working inside of a scissor lift?

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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 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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# 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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# Fall Protection - Travel Restraint System (cont.) ## What is included in a travel restraint system? (cont.) Adequate anchorage connectors and anchorage capable of supporting a load as determined by the jurisdiction. For example, a load of 4 kilonewton (kN) - this figure includes a static load of 2 kN or 450 pounds with a recommended safety factor of at least 2, therefore, 4kN or 900 pounds (force). CSA Z259.17-21 Selection and use of active fall-protection equipment and systems states a minimum of 3.6 kN or 800 pounds (force) for a temporary travel restraint set up having no free fall, and for use by one worker. What should be done before using a travel restraint system? The use of a travel restraint system must be thoroughly planned. Always do the following before using a travel restraint system: - Identify all fall hazards in the work area. Plan for irregular (non-uniform) shaped areas or perimeters, surface openings, or locations near corners that may impact the range of travel. - Select appropriate components such as carabiner, snap hook, Y-lanyard, energy absorbers, lifeline, and self-retracting life line. - Locate suitable anchor points. Select an anchor point that is as close as possible to being perpendicular to the unprotected edge, and at the centre of the work area. - Have a competent person inspect the travel restraint system thoroughly before (and after) use. If any part of the travel restraint system is defective, the component must be taken out of service immediately. Note that if a travel-restraint system does not prevent a worker from reaching the edge (fall hazard), a fall-arrest system must be used. ## What should be done when using a travel restraint system? Adjust your connections to the anchor or change anchors - It may not be appropriate to use a lifeline or lanyard with the same length if you are working in different work areas. Adjust your connection to the anchor or change anchors to provide travel restraint for each work area…

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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

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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 - Safety Net Systems ## On this page When should a safety net be used ? What does your jurisdiction require? What should be done before using a safety net system? What should be done when using a safety net system? What should be done when safety nets catch debris? What are tips for maintaining a safety net system? ## When should a safety net be used ? Safety nets are one option that can be used as part of a fall protection plan. Workplaces that have the risk of falling should have a fall protection plan that outlines the policy and procedures involved in 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. Safety nets are classified as a passive fall protection system which can be installed as either a barrier to prevent a fall, or beneath the work to catch a falling worker. Safety nets are designed to decrease the fall distance, to absorb the energy of a fall, and to reduce the likelihood or seriousness of an injury. However, safety nets do not stop the worker from falling. Installing a fixed barrier such as guardrails, opening covers, or walls are always the preferred method to prevent a worker from falling. Safety nets are most often used when it is impossible or impractical to install fixed barriers or to use an anchored and lifeline system (fall arrest system). ## What does your jurisdiction require? 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 equpment (PPE). Fall Protection - Safety Net Systems CCOHS

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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 - Hierarchy of Control ## On this page What should be considered when work is done at heights? How can work at heights be eliminated? What engineering controls can be used to reduce work at heights? What administrative controls can be used? What are examples of personal protective equipment? What should be considered when work is done at heights? Workplaces that identify any risk of injury due to a fall from heights should implement a fall protection plan that outlines the management of work at heights. These policies and procedures may cover a wide range of elements, such as the use of any fall protection equipment, or the assembling, maintaining, inspecting, using, and dismantling of equipment such as ladders, scaffolds, or platforms used for working at heights. Employers must consider the hierarchy of control when selecting the safest method. Information about the hierarchy of control for fall protection is included in this document. Please see the OSH Answers "Hierarchy of Control' for general information. NOTE that other requirements may be needed that are not discussed in this document. Applying the hierarchy of control for work at heights can be complex. Always consult the legislation that applies in your situation, and with your jurisdiction for complete information. The following information is intended as guidance only. ## How can work at heights be eliminated? The most effective method of control is to eliminate the need to work at a height. Examples include: - Designing the work (structurally or mechanically) to eliminate the need to work at heights - Providing a stable platform or floor Fall Protection - Hierarchy of Control CCOHS

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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 - Legislation ## On this page When is fall protection required? What are the sources of legislation regarding fall protection? What are the applicable standards for fall protection? Where can I find more information from CCOHS about fall protection and working at heights? ## When is fall protection required? 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/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 (i.e., 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. Occupational health and safety laws generally require action when a worker has the potential to fall about 3 metres (10 feet). In most cases, fall protection is required when: other means of fall protection are not available or possible, such as guardrails - working at a height of 3 metres or more (permanent and/or temporary work areas) Fall Protection - Legislation CCOHS

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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 - 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.…

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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