Fatalities from falls continue to be a leading cause of death in the construction industry, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is focusing on the dangers with its “Stand-Down” campaign on fall prevention. The annual campaign, scheduled for May 8 to May 12 this year, is to put the focus on reducing fall-related fatalities in the workplace.
A “Safety Stand-Down” is a voluntary event during which employers talk directly to employees about safety, including on “fall hazards” and “fall prevention.”
OSHA said of the event, “It’s an opportunity for employers to have a conversation with employees about hazards, protective methods, and the company’s safety policies and goals. It can also be an opportunity for employees to talk to management about fall hazards they see.”
OSHA suggests companies conduct a “Safety Stand-Down” by taking a break to have a “toolbox talk” or other safety activity, such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, and discussing job-specific hazards. Resources available include: “Suggestions to Prepare for a Successful ‘Stand-Down’” and “Highlights from the Past Stand-Downs.”
Participating employers can receive certificates of participation from OSHA and share their “Stand-Down story” at oshastanddown@dol.gov and on social media with the hashtag, #StandDown4Safety.
Visit OSHA’s events page for local activities. Employers can add public events to the list by contacting the regional OSHA “Stand-Down” coordinator.
