Fall and Drowning: Fatal Fact #58

1. The contractor should provide conventional means such as ladders, personnel hoists, aerial lifts, elevated work platforms or scaffolds for employees to reach the worksite [29 CFR ; 926.550(g)(2)].
2. The contractor should perform a trail lift on the equipment to determine that all systems, controls and safety devices are functioning properly immediately prior to hoisting employee to worksite [29 CFR 1926.550(g)(5)].
3. The contractor should not permit inadequately trained employees to operate equipment or machinery [29 CFR 1926.20(b)(4)].
4. Contractor should provide appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety belts and lanyards for employees in operations where there is exposure to hazardous conditions [29 CFR 1926.28(a)].
5. Employer should comply with manufacturer's specifications applicable to operation of cranes or derricks [29 CFR 1926.550(a)(1)].

Inspection Results

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for violations of nine standards.

Sources of Help

• OSHA General Industry Standards [CFR parts 1900-1910] and OSHA Construction Standards [CFR Part 1926] which together Include all OSHA job safety and health rules and regulations covering construction.
• For information on OSHA-funded free consultation services call the nearest OSHA area office listed in telephone directories under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs.
• OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction (Available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161; 703/487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS): a set of 15 guidelines to help construction employers establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the job.
• Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA Training Institute, 1555 Times Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 312/297-4810.