Fatal Falls / Falls Methods of Prevention: Ladders, Scaffolds, and Rooftops

1.  To prevent falls from ladders:

• Select and use the proper type of ladder (get the right size and check the duty rating.)
• Inspect ladder, prior to using, for structural damage, missing or damaged safety devices, substances that could cause slips or falls, and paint or stickers that could hide defects.
• Tag and remove defective ladders from the work-site.
• Wear approved fall protection equipment, if applicable.
• Use ladders only on solid, stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental displacement.
• Use ladders only as recommended by manufacturer (do not use ladder in a horizontal position as a scaffold, do not have more than one person on the ladder at a time, do not overload, do not work from the top rungs of an extension ladder or the top of a step ladder.)
• Maintain ladders regularly (change shoes and lubricate metal bearings, locks and pulleys.)
• Train workers on safe use and make sure that they understand and follow safe use of ladders.

2.  To prevent falls from scaffolds:

• Select and use the proper type of scaffold for the job.
• Provide access ladder to scaffolds.
• Use scaffold grade lumber for all platforms.
• Install guardrails and toe-boards on all open sides and ends of platforms more than 10 feet above the ground.
• Make sure that the footing or anchorage for scaffolds is sound, rigid, and capable of carrying four times the maximum intended load, including its own weight.
• Inspect the scaffolding after erection and before first use.
• Inspect the scaffolds routinely for consideration of footing (anchorage), parts of the scaffolds, and slippery conditions.
• Train workers on the safe way to use scaffoldings.

3.  To prevent falls from roofs and buildings:

• Install guarding and/or fall protection on all roof openings.
• Put warning signs on all roof openings.
• Make cutting the roof openings a last action on the roof.
• Provide fall protection measures along unguarded roof perimeters and balconies.
• Install a cover (for roof and floor openings) capable of supporting the maximum intended load.

     Innovative efforts are needed to reach employers and workers in small construction businesses. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has developed a series of educational brochures on prevention of falls in residential construction, and distributes these through building permit offices in cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth. These materials are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Haitian Creole from the Occupational Health Surveillance Program upon request.

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