Falls on the job are big issues in New York, and they make up a big chunk of workers’ compensation claims. While there are industry standards and federal regulations in place to help protect employees, unsafe conditions still exist in many industries. Because falls are still a big concern, prevention efforts continue to increase and improve.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 262,728 workers were injured by falls in the United States in 2014, with 798 of those ending up in fatalities. The industries with the highest incidents of falls include construction, healthcare, retail and wholesale. The causes of falls vary and include slippery floors, ladders that are not positioned properly, holes in the wall and floor and improperly-used protection equipment.
According to OSHA, there are a number of prevention tactics that companies can employ to decrease the incidents of falls. Using the right equipment is imperative, especially in situations in which employees are working at least six feet above the ground. Companies need to ensure that the correct type of scaffolding or ladder is being implemented, and everyone should know how to set them up and use them properly. For employees who work on roofs, a harness needs to be provided for safety.
Time and money must also be spent to plan each job. Identifying safety issues, buying the right equipment and training the staff on correct use must occur before any job begins. Every chore must be considered, and any tool or piece of equipment must be on hand in the event it is needed. Employing these tactics can help reduce falls and keep employees safe.
