Safety Checklist for Fall Protection

Hazard Identification

• Workers potentially exposed to a fall hazard receive training before they start work in elevated locations.
• Training includes an explanation of the company’s fall protection policies and systems, selection and proper use of protective devices, and equipment maintenance.

Personal Fall Protection

• Personal fall protection is used both to prevent workers from falling and to break falls.
• Fall protection is in place when workers could fall more than six feet.

Personal Fall Arrest Systems

• Personal fall arrest systems are used to stop workers in a free-fall. They consist of an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness. They may also include a lanyard, lifeline, and deceleration device.
• The system prevents workers from falling over six feet or hitting the lower level.
• The system is inspected by a competent person at least twice a year, and whenever it has sustained an impact.
• Lanyards, anchorages, and lifelines are capable of supporting 5,000 pounds.
• The system is not attached to a guardrail or hoist that cannot sustain the load.
• All personal fall arrest systems are of an approved type and are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Each worker has a separate lifeline.
• Lifelines are protected from cuts and abrasion. Worn or damaged rope is removed from service.
• Body harnesses are removed from service once they take a shock from a fall.
• Body belts are not used as part of a fall arrest system.

Guardrails

• Toprail is capable of withstanding downward and outward force of > 200 pounds.
• Toprail height is 42 inches +/- 3 inches.
• Midrail is capable of withstanding downward and outward force of > 150 pounds.
• Midrail height is 21 inches +/- 3 inches.
• Mesh or screen used in place of a midrail.
• Toprail cable is flagged at six-foot intervals.

Safety Nets

• Nets are never more than 30 feet below the work area.
• There are no obstructions between the work area and the net.
• Items are removed from the safety net as soon as possible, at least between work shifts.