Implementing Fall Protection at Work

Even the most experienced workers are not immune from falls. In fact, falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and death. A slight misstep or an unsecured harness can have serious consequences, highlighting the importance of fall protection.

That’s why having a proactive fall protection plan is essential for every organization.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps employers can take to implement effective fall protection systems and the equipment they use in these programs. But first…

What is a Fall Protection System?

When it comes to workplace safety, it’s crucial to understand the difference between fall protection, fall arrest and fall prevention systems. Each system serves a distinct purpose, but they work together to create a comprehensive safety framework.

• Fall protection is the overarching term for any system, equipment or strategy designed to reduce fall risks. This category includes both active and passive measures to protect workers from injuries caused by falls. The goal is to minimize the likelihood of a fall or mitigate its impact if it occurs.

• Fall arrest systems activate when a fall happens, preventing the worker from hitting a lower level or surface. These systems typically include equipment such as personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) — made up of body harnesses, lanyards and deceleration devices — which stop the worker’s fall mid-air. Fall arrest systems are essential for employees working at heights, such as on rooftops, scaffolding or elevated platforms.

• Fall prevention systems, on the other hand, are designed to keep workers from falling in the first place. These systems include guardrails, travel restraint systems and safety nets. Unlike fall arrest systems, fall prevention measures are passive by nature, requiring less intervention from employees once properly installed. For example, installing guardrails on elevated walkways ensures that workers have a physical barrier preventing falls.

By using a combination of fall protection, arrest and prevention systems, employers can create safer workplaces while maintaining compliance with OSHA regulations.

Why Fall Protection is Critical for Employers

Falls are one of the top causes of preventable workplaces injuries, according to the National Safety Council, with significant consequences for everyone involved. Beyond the obvious health and financial impacts to the injured, employers face lost work hours, administrative costs and potential legal fees.

An effective fall protection system can prevent injuries, which in turn reduces the number of workers’ compensation claims and minimizes lost productivity. Moreover, it’s required by law in some cases.

OSHA mandates that fall protection measures are implemented at specific heights, which vary by industry. For example, construction workers must be protected at heights of six feet or more, while general industry employees need protection starting at four feet. Adhering to these requirements not only prevents workplace accidents but also helps avoid costly penalties for non-compliance.

How to Implement an Effective Program

Developing a comprehensive fall protection plan involves multiple steps. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to help you start creating a program that protects your employees and ensures compliance:

Step 1: Identify Fall Hazards

The first step toward compliance is to proactively identify potential fall hazards in the workplace. OSHA requires employers to conduct regular hazard assessments, particularly in areas prone to falls, such as loading docks, rooftops or scaffolding. For industries like construction, where 47% of workplace deaths involve slips, trips and falls, it is especially critical to document hazards thoroughly​. Employers should also assess indoor spaces for hazards, like unguarded ledges or wet floors.

Step 2: Choose the Right Fall Protection Systems

Every workplace presents different challenges, and the fall protection systems used must align with the work environment. Fall arrest systems, which include body harnesses and deceleration devices, are essential for high-risk tasks. In contrast, fall prevention systems such as guardrails or safety nets create barriers to prevent falls altogether. It’s also important to select PFAS for jobs involving work on elevated surfaces​.

Step 3: Provide Training

OSHA emphasizes that proper training is non-negotiable for effective fall protection. Workers must be trained not only in the use of fall protection equipment but also in recognizing potential fall risks. Training should include:

• Proper use of harnesses and fall arrest systems.
• Awareness of equipment inspections to prevent malfunctions.
• Identifying and avoiding hazardous areas, such as confined spaces.

Annual refresher training helps workers stay updated on best practices and changing standards. It also empowers them to report hazards before they escalate into accidents.

Step 4: Create Written Policies

Clear, accessible written policies are the backbone of any fall protection program. These policies should outline:

• The specific fall protection systems in use.
• Training requirements for employees.
• Equipment inspection protocols.

Including a formal fall protection plan in your safety program ensures that everyone knows their responsibilities.

Step 5: Regularly Review and Update

Compliance is not a one-time effort. Employers must periodically review their fall protection measures to keep up with new risks, industry changes, and OSHA regulations. Regular inspections and program updates are essential to maintaining safety and avoiding penalties for non-compliance. By continuously evaluating the effectiveness of your protection systems, you can ensure that your program evolves with the needs of your workplace.

Tips for Picking the Right Systems and Equipment

Choosing the right fall protection equipment depends on the work environment and industry. Keep the following factors in mind:

1. Assess the work environment: Determine whether the area is open, confined, or elevated to select the appropriate fall protection system.
2. Select durable products: Invest in high-quality equipment to ensure safety and compliance with OSHA standards.
3. Check comfort and fit: Ensure that body harnesses and other equipment fit properly for long-term use without discomfort.

Fall protection is more than just following regulations — it’s about ensuring your employees return home safely every day. A proactive fall protection program helps reduce workplace accidents, keeps operations running smoothly, and minimizes costly workers’ compensation claims. Employers who invest in the right systems and provide thorough training foster a culture of safety that benefits everyone.

If you’re ready to take your fall protection program to the next level, join FFVA Mutual’s upcoming “Slips, Trips, and Falls” webcast. This live session provides in-depth strategies for developing a safer workplace, straight from industry experts.

Register for this webcast today and make fall prevention a priority in your organization.

Our next annual stand-down has a focus on preventing slips, trips and falls at work. View this stand-down page to learn more and access a downloadable resource packet, tips and more!