Hazard Analysis — Fall from heights

Falls from Ladders

For Ladders

Prior to using a ladder, it is best practice to explore other safer alternatives first.  Some options would be to consider if it is feasible to: 1) perform the work task with an extension tool on ground level, 2) utilize an elevating work platform (i.e. a scissor lift) or 3) relocate the building component or equipment on ground level.  If not possible, there are some ways to assess the risk of falling from a ladder.  Although this list is by no means comprehensive, things to take into account would be:

• the platform where the ladder is on
• if the setup of the ladder uses the 4:1 rule (4 feet of ladder length to point of attachment to 1 foot of distance from ladder base to wall)
• if the type and length of ladder for the work task is appropriate
• if the ladder is stable
• if the top and bottom of the ladder is secure when using a straight ladder
• if the ladder rungs have uniform spacing and parallel alignment
• if the ladder is in good working condition
• if the workers practice good climbing techniques in maintaining 3-points of contact with the ladder
• the frequency of having to ascend and descend the ladder
• if workers follow the manufacturer's recommendations on the ladder use
• if there is a program on safety training and hazard precautions for the workers

CPWR has produced a video titled “A Simple Task – Fatal Ladder Fall.”  For more information, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXit0ziMIAA

OSHA provides an eTool, an interactive web-based training tool, pertaining to the misuse of portable ladder.  For more information, please visit: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/ladders.html

For Roofs

In assessing the risk of falling from a roof, although this list is by no means comprehensive, some things to keep in mind would be:

• there are engineering controls in place, such as guardrails or safety nets
• the worker are using personal protective equipment, such as fall arrest and restraint systems
• the tie-off points and safety equipment have the approval for their proper function by a competent person
• there are covers marked with the word "HOLE" or "COVER" for the roof areas with openings before work
• there is a program on safety training and hazard precautions for the workers

For Scaffolds

In assessing the risk of falling from a scaffold, although this list is by no means comprehensive, some things to consider would be if:

• there is direct supervision of a competent person when erecting or dismantling a scaffold
• the footage or anchorage of the fixed scaffold system is stable
• the loading weight is appropriate with respect to the intended load limit
• there are engineering controls in place, such as guardrails
• the worker are using personal protective equipment, such as fall arrest systems
• the suspension ropes have shielding from hot or corrosive processes, and protection from sharp edges or abrasion for the suspension scaffold
• the anchorage support of the building is structurally sound for the suspension scaffold
• the workers follow the manufacturer's recommendations on the scaffold use
• there is a program on safety training and hazard precautions for the workers

OSHA provides an eTool, an interactive web-based training tool, pertaining to improper scaffold construction.  For more information, please visit: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/improper_scaffolds.html