Fall protection system

Make no mistake, when it comes to fall protection systems and equipment, OSHA (and common sense) require hands-on learning that approximates actual work conditions. If we re talking about a harness for example, there is no substitute for strapping into it, connecting to an anchor, experiencing how it feels, and seeing firsthand what needs to be inspected before use. 

For example, the old instruction said that employers performing roofing work did not have to use active fall protection systems such as har-ness/lanyard/ lifeline or self-retracting devices, guardrails... 

KeeGuard permanent roof edge fall protection systems feature a modular, adaptable design and are ideal for flat and low-sloped roofs as well as standing seam metal roofs. 

A personal fall protection system comprises at least a body holding device, i.e. a harness of some type, a lanyard and a reliable anchor. A well thought-out system will seek to minimise the effects of any potential fall. If a fall does occur, that system will arrest the fall with a limited impact force. At this stage, the harness (and the rest of the components in the system) will have stopped the fall, hopefully without it causing any injury. 

A self-closing, self-locking steel connector used to attach to an anchorage point. Used with a personal fall protection system. 

A fall protection system that prevents the user from falling any distance. The system is comprised of either a body belt or body harness, along with an anchorage, connectors, and other necessary equipment. The other components typically include a lanyard, and may also include a lifeline and other devices. See also Anchor Point Body Harness, Full Lanyard Personal Fall Arrest System. 

ANSI A10.32, Fall Protection Systems for Construction and Demolition Operations... 

Ensuring proper use of fall protection systems and rescue systems... 

Docmnent, in that plan, the reasons why conventional fall protection systems are infeasible or why their use would create a greater hazard. 

There is a presmnption that it is feasible and will not create a greater hazard to implement at least one of the prescribed fall protection systems. Accordingly, you have the bm den of establishing that it is appropriate to implement a fall protection plan which complies with 1926.502(k) for a particular workplace situation, in lieu of implementing any of those systems. 

It should be noted that, effective March 15, 2013, the agency began to fully implement its fall protection enforcement directive for residential construction, STD 03-11-002. With the issuance of the new directive, all residential construction employers must comply with 1926.501(b)(13). This includes the requirement to develop a written, site-specific fall protection plan in comphance with 1926.502(k), that docmnents the reasons why conventional or allowed alternative fall protection systems are infeasible or create a greater hazard. 

The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling, and inspecting the fall protection systems to be used ... 

Train workers in the proper selection, use, and maintenance of fall protection systems. 

The fall protection rule specifies the (1) areas and operations where fall protection systems are required, and the options you have to provide the protection (1926.501—Scope, application, and definitions applicable to this subpart), (2) criteria for the fall protection systems you choose (1926.502—Duty to have fall protection), and (3) required training (1926.503—Training requirements). 

Always use all fall protection systems and equipment your employer provides, it could save your life. 

You must provide and install all required fall and falling object protection before your employees begin work. OSHA s intent is that fall protection systems be in place at the earliest possible time when there is potential exposure to fall hazards. The equipment and systems must comply with fall protection rules at 1926.502 — Fall protection systems criteria and practices. The three most common (primary) methods of providing fall protection are guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems. 

Select different pieces of equipment or fall protection system that your company uses to demonstrate. 

One of the most important aspects of personal fall protection systems is fully planning the system before it is put into use. Probably the most overlooked component is planning for suitable anchorage points. 

CFR 1926.502—Fall protection systems criteria and practices. 29 CFR 1926.503—Training requirements. 

Steel erectors, just as in the general fall protection standard, can choose the best fall protection system for the job. The standard says protection from fall hazards can be a perimeter safety cable, guardrail, safety net, personal fall arrest, or a fall restraint (positioning device) system. 

Fall protection systems and equipment takes extensive training. For this Toolbox Talk go over the fall protection requirements in the rule. This will meet the training requirement discussing 1926.760. 

Components There are several components that form a fall protection system. Together they prevent or limit falls. The person who might fall wears a safety belt or safety harness. Standards limit the deceleration force for body belts to 10 times the force of gravity or less. Higher stopping forces are likely to cause injuries. For a full-body harnesses, the deceleration limit is 35 times the force of gravity. Body harnesses distribute the stopping forces more effectively and reduce the likelihood of injury from the stop. 

A major re-write of the 29 CFR Part 1910 for walking/working surfaces and fall protection systems is in the works. 

A traveling bridge fall protection system in a hangar, pnoto courtesy ol Rigid ilteiines... 

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