Safeguarding Workers: The Importance of a Fall Protection Plan in Construction

How a fall protection plan can reduce hazards and protect workers in hi-rise construction

Falls are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the construction industry, and it's crucial for employers to have a fall protection plan in place to protect their workers from falling hazards. In addition to fall protection, employers must also have a fall rescue plan in place in case an incident occurs. In this article, we will discuss the importance of fall protection and rescue plans in NYC hi-rise construction, the resources and regulations that employers must follow, and provide examples of each type of plan.

First, let's discuss the importance of fall protection plans. A fall protection plan is a set of policies and procedures that are designed to help identify and reduce fall hazards on a construction site. According to OSHA, fall protection must be provided when working over dangerous equipment and machinery, regardless of the fall distance. To prevent employees from being injured from falls, employers must guard every floor hole into which a worker can accidentally walk (using a railing and toe-board or a floor hole cover)[2].

In NYC, hi-rise construction can present a unique set of fall hazards. For example, workers may be required to work at heights on various types of scaffolding, ladders, aerial lifts, and various types of leading edge work which can be dangerous if proper fall protection is not in place. In addition, the height of the building can also make it more difficult to conduct a rescue in case of an emergency. Therefore, it's essential for employers to have a fall protection plan in place that addresses the specific hazards present in hi-rise construction.

Here are some examples of work that requires Fall Protection Plans:

• Concrete contractors when stripping forms
• Window installers
• Exterior framing
• Roofers
• Elevator erectors and installers
• Sheet metal workers installing duct risers
• Safety net installers
• Stair and hand railing installers
• Safety harness and line installers

In addition to fall protection, employers must also have a fall rescue plan in place. OSHA requires fall protection plans to include plans for a prompt rescue due to the risk of suspension trauma [1]. A fall rescue plan is a set of procedures that employers must follow to promptly rescue employees who have fallen or are suspended in a harness. This plan must include a list of the names and contact information of the employees who have been trained in fall rescue, as well as the equipment that will be used during a rescue.

Employers must also follow specific regulations and guidelines when developing their fall protection and rescue plans. OSHA has several resources and regulations that employers must follow, including fall protection in residential construction and fall protection safety for commercial fishing [2]. In addition, OSHA also provides a Model Fall Protection Plan as a resource, which employers can use as a guide when developing their own fall protection plans [3].

Now, let's provide examples of each type of plan.

A fall protection plan must have the following key elements:

• Hazard assessment to identify fall hazards on the job site
• Procedures for eliminating or controlling fall hazards, such as guardrails and toe-boards around elevated open-sided platforms, floors, or runways
• Obtaining necessary technical equipment and using competent people to train workers and inspect equipment
• Ongoing training for workers on fall protection procedures and the use of personal fall arrest systems
• Fall recovery procedures in case of a fall incident
• Alternative fall protection measures, such as safety nets or personal fall restraint systems, when traditional methods are infeasible or create a greater hazard
• Regular inspection and maintenance of fall protection equipment
• Compliance with OSHA regulations, including 1926.501(b) which provides for alternative fall protection measures when traditional methods are infeasible or create a greater hazard.

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The Importance of Daily Pre-Task Meetings in NYC Hi-Rise Construction Fall Protection Plans

In addition to the above elements, it is also important for employers in NYC hi-rise construction to include a section on daily pre-task meetings in their fall protection plans. According to NYC Building Code 3301.12, all construction sites are required to hold daily pre-task meetings before each shift to discuss any potential hazards and safety concerns. These meetings should be led by a competent person who is trained in fall protection and rescue procedures.

It is crucial for employers to not only comply with this code, but also to strictly enforce it. Holding daily pre-task meetings is not just a paperwork requirement, but a vital part of keeping workers safe on the job site. Employers must ensure that the competent person is in fact holding these meetings and that all employees are actively participating and addressing any potential hazards.

Furthermore, employers must also document these meetings and keep records of attendance to demonstrate compliance with the code. This documentation can be used as evidence in case of an inspection or incident.

In addition to OSHA regulations, employers in NYC must also comply with regulations set by the NYC Building Department. The NYC Building Department requires that fall protection be provided when working over dangerous equipment and machinery, regardless of the fall distance [4]. Employers must also ensure that all equipment and fall protection systems are properly inspected and maintained.

Building Safety in NYC Hi-Rise Construction: The Combined Effort of Fall Protection, Rescue Plans, and Daily Pre-Task Meetings

In summary, fall protection and rescue plans are crucial for the safety of workers in NYC hi-rise construction. Employers must not only comply with OSHA regulations and NYC Building Code 3301.12, but also strictly enforce them. Daily pre-task meetings, led by a competent person, are an important aspect of fall protection and should be included in all plans. Employers must also document these meetings and keep records of attendance to demonstrate compliance with the code.

References:

[1] https://www.osha.gov/fall-protection

[2] https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3146.pdf

[3] https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/fall%20protection_

2022 Edition of NYC Building Code Chapter 33: Safeguards During Construction or Demolition