FALL PREVENTION MANUAL

Transcription

1 FALL PREVENTION MANUAL Published by CIRSA 3665 Cherry Creek North Drive Denver, Colorado FAX CIRSA 2009

2 I. Introduction Fall Prevention Manual Table of Contents A. Controlling Exposures 1 B. Slips and Falls 2 C. Traction 2 D. Trips 2 E. Other Trip and Fall Causes 3 F. Cost of Falls from Elevation 3 G. Loss Control Measures for Controlling Slips, Trips, 4 and Falls H. Controlling Falls While Entering and Exiting Vehicles 6 and Equipment I. Ladders 7 J. Rules for Ladders 8 K. Fall Protection Devices 10 L. Actions to Take When Falling 10 M. Conclusion 11 II. Sample Fall Protection Plan 12 III. Sources of Information, Resources, and Sample Forms 23

3 Fall Prevention Manual Introduction The purpose of this guide is to increase employee awareness in the causes and preventative actions that can be taken in order to reduce slips, trips, and falls. Many of these actions will also reduce the potential for injuries to the public. All employees are responsible for taking actions to prevent injuries due to slips, trips, and falls. The level of authority will vary; however, there are specific actions that can be taken at each level in the entity to eliminate and reduce the potential for injuries. Management is responsible for creating, implementing and updating a fall prevention program as necessary. Resources should be provided to properly carry out the program. Time should also be made available to conduct training. Management should also ensure that the program is enforced and that regular inspections are conducted. Updates may be required due to changes in facilities, work practices and/or new regulations. Supervisors are responsible for scheduling employee training and ensuring the proper equipment is made available and properly used for various tasks. Employees are expected to attend the scheduled training and keep their work areas free of slip, trip, and fall hazards. They should also promptly report or take the necessary action to correct any hazards that may contribute to a slip, trip or fall. Individuals are also responsible for properly using ladders, fall arrest equipment, and other provided safety items to reduce the potential for injuries. A. Controlling Exposures Fall-related exposures can be controlled by engineering, administrative or personal protective equipment controls. Engineering controls include reducing or eliminating exposures by designing out the exposure. Examples include providing guardrails, installation of fixed ladders and stairs, entry mats, installing better lighting, and eliminating the need to work at elevations. Administrative controls include implementing policies to reduce or eliminate the exposures. These policy provisions include adequate budgets for training, inspections, and items necessary to carry out the program. A disorderly work environment can negatively impact safety and morale. Contracting out activities that create fall exposures, housekeeping procedures such as establishing policies for chemicals used to treat floor surfaces, and winter shoe policies, are also examples of administrative controls. Page 1

4 Personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered the least desirable option. This is because individuals may not properly use the equipment. Examples of PPE include shoe traction devices (such as Yaktraxs) and fall arrest systems. B. Slips and Falls Individuals fall either on the same level or from elevations. The most common type of fall is from the same level; however, falling from an elevated position usually results in more severe injury. Slips and trips are examples of same level falls. Injuries occur when the person strikes the walking/working surface or another object during the fall. Falls from less than ten feet account for more than half of the elevated falls. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires fall protection for general industry at heights of four feet or greater with the exception of portable ladder use. Common four foot height areas include loading docks, ramps, platforms, and walkways. C. Trips Unlike a slip, a trip occurs when the front foot strikes an object and suddenly stops, causing the body to fall forward. Walkways are a common source of trips due to uneven concrete. Height changes as little as 3/8 of an inch between concrete sections can cause a tripping incident. Uneven stair risers can also create tripping hazards since individuals expect even steps. It is not uncommon for workers to trip on pieces of equipment, water hoses, electrical cords, air hoses, or tools that they themselves forgot to put away. Good housekeeping includes picking up, wiping up and cleaning up. D. Traction A slip occurs as the heel of the front foot contacts the walking surface. As the front foot slides forward the body falls backwards. Another type of fall occurs when the rear foot slips backwards. The forward force starts on the sole of the rear foot and moves forward to the front of the sole. As the heel is lifted, the force causes the foot to slip backward and the individual to slip and fall. Tribology is the science and technology of interacting surfaces in relative motion. It includes the study and application of the principles of friction, lubrication and wear. Force, or traction, provides us with grip to move without sliding. Traction is measured as the coefficient of friction (COF). The higher the coefficient, the more friction exists thus the greater traction. For our purposes, the type of shoe material and the quality of walking surface determine the coefficient of friction. The American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) provides information on footwear and floor interface. It describes tests to determine whether shoes meet a 0.25 slip resistant rating. OSHA requires a minimum static of coefficient of friction of 0.5. The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends 0.6 for level surfaces and 0.8 for ramps. Static coefficients of friction (SCOF) less than 0.4 are considered very dangerous. Page 2

5 Liberty Mutual conducted a study using two slipmeters. Three floor materials in the study were (1) Unglazed quarry tiles, (2) Smooth stainless steel, and (3) Vinyl composition. Sixteen different sole materials (diamond style) were also used. The best sole performers for various surfaces were (1) Thermoplastic resin, (2) Thermoplastic urethane, (3) PVC blown, and (4) Nitrile (low density). All had a SCOF over 0.5. Common floor surface SCOF s are indicated below. Rough Brushed Concrete 0.7 SCOF Vinyl or Quarry Tile (Dry) Dry Terrazzo of Dry Marble Wet Vinyl or Wet Quarry Tile Wet Terrazzo or Wet Marble Ice or Soapy Water Water on a surface can lower the SCOF by 0.2. To provide some relevance to these figures, a brushed concrete surface and a rubber heel often has a COF often greater than 1.0. A wet smooth surface, such as tile or ice and leather soles can have a COF as low as 0.10 E. Other Trips and Falls Causes Other step and fall injuries can occur when one steps onto a lower surface than expected. Examples include stepping off a curb in the dark or into a hole covered with leaves causing one to generally fall forward. Finally, if one steps onto an object with the inside or outside of the foot higher than the other side, the ankle can be turned, resulting in a fall. F. Cost of Falls from Elevation Due to the fall distance from an elevated surface, injuries are usually more severe than same level falls. The National Safety Council s 2007 Injury Facts using the National Council on Compensation Insurance s (NCCI) Detailed Claim Information (DCI) file, reveals the following information. The average costs involving a fall or slip is $22,802 which is lead only by motor vehicle claims. Most of these occurred in the winter months. Falls to a lower level were 12 times higher in death rates than falls on the same level. Same level falls resulted in approximately 2.1 times as many cases involving days away from work as compared to falls to a lower level. The number of cases reported for utilities (private and public) involving slip and trip cases was about one-tenth of the number of the same level falls. Governmental employees were four times more likely to fall to a lower level than on the same surface. Page 3

6 G. Loss Control Measures for Controlling Slips, Trips, and Falls In order to control potential fall exposures, one must first identify the locations and sources of past incidents. This can be done by reviewing claims and incident reports, interviewing employees (especially custodial/maintenance staff), conducting inspections/ audits, and observing employee behavior on the premises. This will provide information that may lead to policy changes, engineering changes, identification of the need for personal fall protection equipment, or the need for more employee training. Physical hazards that could lead to incidents often exist because of employee behavior. For instance, employees not cleaning up spills, employees stretching extension cords across aisles, and not closing file cabinet drawers result in fall hazards. Poor storage practices, carrying oversized items that limit vision especially on stairs, not using handrails, and wearing sunglasses indoors are further examples of at risk-behaviors. Although physical hazards can contribute to incidents, many times it is employee inattention that causes an injury. Inattention is often the root cause in accident analysis. Many employees state they were not paying attention or were not thinking. What was it that took the person s mind off the task being performed? Was it a conversation, the next job, personal problems, or other issues? Do employees get easily bored, lose track of conversations, daydream, or state I could do it with my eyes closed? Although we can t control a person s mind, supervisors should emphasize the potential consequences of loss of focus. To help avoid inattention, concentrate on ways to make the job better, safer, and more efficient. Take micro-breaks by standing, flexing, or stretching to stimulate the body and mind. Also focusing on hand and foot position, balance and surroundings will help avoid inattention. Improper planning may result in working faster or running or walking faster to make up the time. This may result in a loss of balance or distraction such as not watching where one is going. It is a personal responsibility to plan, stay alert, and pay attention. Good housekeeping is everyone s responsibility and involves: Planning ahead Know what the job will involve, who is going to do it, and what it should look like when completed. If necessary, assign someone to specifically clean up during and after the job (although personal responsibility for cleaning up is preferred). Establish daily housekeeping as on ongoing practice. Improper or inadequate lighting can also increase the probability of an injury. Ensure light fixtures and bulbs are kept in working order. Proper lighting helps employees detect obstructions and avoid slippery areas. Always turn on lights when entering dark areas. Motion sensor lights can improve safety and energy. If necessary, relocate light switches to accessible locations near the entry door. Move slowly if light is dim or when entering dark areas from bright areas such as outdoors, to allow your eyes to adjust. A minimum of 5 foot-candles should be provided in corridors, hallways, and exit ways. A minimum of 10 foot-candles should be provided in mechanical and electrical rooms, car- Page 4

7 penter shops, active store rooms, and indoor toilets and workrooms. Offices should have a minimum of 30 foot-candles of illumination where computer monitors are being used. When one walks fast or runs, the fast movement placed on the heel and soles of the feet changes the pressure and requires a greater COF to prevent slips and falls. The key to preventing slips and falls on surfaces is keeping walking and work surfaces clean and dry and wearing the proper slip-resistant type footwear. Safety shoe/boot suppliers offer many types of footwear for various conditions which is discussed later. Where it is anticipated that the surface will become wet, choosing a surface material with a higher COF and installing proper floor treatments is recommended. Non-skid strips will help reduce slips and falls on stairs, ramps or other hazardous walking/working surfaces. Abrasive coatings can be painted onto concrete, metal and wood surfaces to increase the COF. Various products are designed with different COF s and the correct type of product should be used depending on the exposures such as water, grease, oil, or other chemical. For many building entrances, using a mat runner 20 feet in length inside doorways will help dry shoes before individuals walk on hard surfaces. Improper mats can create hazards. Ensure they have beveled edges, lie flat, and are made of materials or have a backing that will not slide on the floor. Provisions should be made to clear snow and ice from doorways, emergency exit doors, and outside stairs. Outside areas should also be treated with sand or other environmentally friendly material. If the exposure is short term, such as a spill or wet floor that can t be solved through an engineering design, people should be warned of potential hazards. These situations should be quickly corrected through mopping or drying the surface. Wet floor signs should be readily used. Many types of signs are available. Choose one that will catch people s attention. Remove the sign once the hazard is resolved to avoid losing their intended effectiveness. Yellow striping can also be used to draw attention to uneven surfaces that might lead to tripping incidents. Proper footwear is important in preventing slips and falls. When a slip/fall occurs, the footwear should be evaluated to see whether it contributed to the incident. Employees should be required to wear footwear appropriate for their job duties. When choosing footwear, use a reputable supplier who handles quality products and who is knowledgeable about different types of materials. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets standards regarding crush protection for shoes and boots. Other factors to consider are materials used for the soles and heels. Softer soles are better for indoor slippery conditions, and rugged cleat type soles are better for outdoor use. Although leather soles are common for many indoor office environments, it is not the best choice for other areas. For wet conditions, areas with chemicals, greases and oils, boots made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a blend of PVC and polyurethane, or neoprene, are best. Rubber is good for wet conditions but should not be used with pesticides or petroleum products. There are several manufacturers of ice cleats and other devices that stretch over shoes for icy conditions; however, they should not be worn indoors because they reduce traction on hard surfaces and can damage floors. Page 5

8 H. Controlling Falls While Entering and Exiting Vehicles and Equipment Several major injuries have occurred when individuals fell while dismounting large equipment, climbing off trailers, dismounting from backs of pick-ups, and getting out of vehicles. Inattention, speed, and rushing in an emergency, can cause workers to slip and fall when they do not use vehicle steps and handhold devices. Don t take shortcuts. When mounting or dismounting, do so at a steady consistent pace. Jumps and falls cause strains and sprains, broken bones, and fatalities. Remember to wear proper footwear. Equipment operators should wear shoes with sturdy, no-slip soles and heels. Shoes with smooth and hard soles are more slippery. If shoe soles have become worn, it is time to get a new pair of shoes. Where steps and handhold surfaces are provided, they should be kept clean, dry and free of oil, mud, and ice. Maintain them in good condition and repair damage. If they become worn or smooth, replace them with a non-slip surface. Use dedicated stepping areas since fuel tanks and fenders can be slippery. In hot and cold weather, wear gloves to help grip hand railings. When handholds are provided, they should be used with the three point system. This means that three of the four limbs are in contact with the ladder or vehicle at all times. The foot should be placed on the step so that the rung is under the arch, not just at the toes. Face the equipment when mounting and dismounting. Keep At Least Three Points of Contact Ascending Descending Page 6 Always use the access provided by the manufacturer. When entering equipment hold the grab bar and use it to help climb up. If there is no grab bar, grip the seat or other fixed object in the vehicle. The steering wheel should not be grabbed unless it is locked. It can turn suddenly and throw you off balance. Using the door or handle can also be dangerous because it can swing out causing a fall. If grab bars are missing or improperly placed, have one added or move it to a safer location.

9 Plan your steps into the vehicle so that you are standing on the same leg as the side that you are entering. For example, to enter the left/driver s side, stand on your left leg and lift your right leg up. Hand and feet positions may need to be changed while entering and exiting the vehicle. Use three points of contact with the vehicle at all times (one hand and two feet, or two hands and one foot). To avoid falling out backwards, maintain the three point rule until you are securely seated or firmly on the ground. Never jump from elevated equipment. To exit the vehicle, observe the ground. Look for ice, water, cracks, potholes, rocks, and uneven surfaces before you step out. Face the vehicle and step down backward while holding the grab bar or other stable surface. Use all of the steps until you reach the ground. Never jump down out of a vehicle. You may catch clothing on the door handle, seat adjustments, seat belt, or other protruding item and cause a serious, uncontrolled fall. I. Ladders Ladders are one of the most frequently used items that present fall exposures from elevations. Ladders can be classified as either fixed or portable. Portable ladders include step ladders and extension ladders. Fixed ladders are used in manholes and for access to rooftops, water tanks, and other permanent locations. Portable Ladder Types When choosing a portable ladder, there are three classifications assigned to commercially manufactured ladders. A label must be affixed on the ladder showing the classification. These classifications are: Type I - INDUSTRIAL Type II - COMMERCIAL Type III HOUSEHOLD Type I: INDUSTRIAL Type I ladders are for heavy-duty use such as work by utilities, industrial contractors and other heavy duty applications. There are three sub-classifications to this group. Type 1AA Special Duty: professional use load capacity: 350lbs potential uses: heavy-duty industrial construction, utilities contractors, etc. Type 1A Extra Heavy Duty: professional use load capacity: 300lbs potential uses: industrial construction, building construction; roofing and general contracting. Type 1 Heavy Duty: industrial use load capacity: 250lbs potential uses: general contracting, maintenance work and dry walling. Page 7

10 Type II : COMMERCIAL Type II ladders are for medium duty use, such as activities required by painters in offices, or other light industrial or commercial users. These ladders have a load capacity of 225lbs. Type III: HOUSEHOLD Type III ladders are constructed for light duty or household use. They have a load capacity of 200 lbs. Type III ladders are not authorized for use in certain industries. Remember these are for light household use, and for safety reasons, should have extremely limited applications. These inexpensive ladders have limited ability to withstand heavy use and limited load capacity. Remember, when selecting a ladder, don t forget the weight of tools, materials, and user so that the load limit is not exceeded. J. Rules for All Ladders The following rules apply to all ladders: Maintain ladders free of oil, grease, and other slipping hazards. Do not load ladders beyond their maximum intended load or beyond the manufacturer s rated capacity. Use ladders only for their designed purpose. Use ladders only on stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental movement. Do not use ladders on slippery surfaces unless secured or provided with slipresistant feet to prevent accidental movement. Do not use slip resistant feet as a substitute for exercising care when placing, lashing or holding a ladder on slippery surfaces. Secure ladders to prevent accidental movement if placed in areas such as passageways, doorways or driveways, or where they can be displaced by workplace activities or traffic. Use a barricade to keep traffic or activity away from the ladder if possible. Keep areas clear around the top and bottom of ladders. Do not move, shift or extend ladders while in use. Use ladders equipped with nonconductive side rails if the worker or the ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment. Face the ladder when moving up or down. Use at least one hand to grasp the ladder when climbing. Do not carry objects or loads that could cause loss of balance and a fall. Use tool belts for carrying supplies and tools or raise tools and supplies with a rope. Ladder rungs, cleats and steps must be parallel, level and uniformly spaced when the ladder is in position for use. Ladders must not be tied or fastened together to create longer sections unless they are specifically designed for such use. The user s belt buckle should always remain inside the side rails. Wood ladders should not be coated with any opaque covering. Identification or warning labels, should be placed only on one face of a side rail. Page 8

11 Use non-self-supporting ladders at an angle where the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is approximately one-quarter of the working length of the ladder. A competent person should inspect ladders for visible defects periodically, and after any incident that could affect their safe use. Stepladders Do not use the top two steps of a stepladder. Do not use cross bracing on the rear section of stepladders for climbing. Straight and Extension Ladders Never stand on the top three rungs of a straight ladder. Use ladders at a 4:1 angle. For instance, for every 4 feet rise above the landing surface, the base should be one foot out from the vertical line of the upper resting edge of the ladder. If used for tree access, ensure the ladder is set in the crotch of two sturdy limbs to prevent movement. When portable ladders are used for access to an upper landing surface, the side rails must extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface. When such an extension is not possible, the ladder must be secured and a grasping device, such as a grab rail must be provided to assist workers in mounting and dismounting the ladder. A ladder extension must not deflect under a load that would cause the ladder to slip off its supports. Fixed Ladders Fixed ladders must be provided with cages, wells, ladder safety devices, or self-retracting lifelines where the length of climb is less than 24 feet but the top of the ladder is at a distance greater than 24 feet above lower levels. If the total length of the climb on a fixed ladder equals or exceeds 24 feet, the ladder should be equipped with ladder safety devices; or self-retracting lifelines and rest platforms at intervals not to exceed 150 feet; or a cage or well and multiple ladder sections with each ladder section not to exceed 50 feet in length. These ladder sections must be offset from adjacent sections. Landing platforms must be provided at maximum intervals of 50 feet. Page 9

12 Defective Ladders Portable ladders with structural defects such as broken or missing rungs, cleats or steps, broken or split rails, corroded components or other faulty or defective components should immediately be marked defective or tagged with Do Not Use or similar language and withdrawn from service until repaired or replaced. Fixed ladders with structural defects such as broken or missing rungs, cleats or steps, broken or split rails or corroded components must be withdrawn from service until repaired. Defective fixed ladders are considered withdrawn from use when they are immediately tagged with Do Not Use or similar language, or marked in a manner that identifies them as defective, or blocked such as with a plywood attachment that spans several rungs. Ladder repairs must restore the ladder to a condition meeting its original design specifications before the ladder is returned to use. K. Fall Protection Devices Generally, any time employees are at a height of four feet or more, they are at risk and need to be protected. Employees are not required to have fall protection when using a stepladder unless they will be on a surface in an area that requires fall protection prior to ascending or upon exiting the ladder. Minimum standards are established by OSHA regarding fixed ladders, platforms, catwalks and skylights. Protection can consist of personal protective equipment such as a safety harness and lanyard, or protective cage, railing, and other devices. A written fall protection program should be established, equipment provided, and employees trained in proper fall prevention practices. A sample fall protection program is included in this publication. L. Actions To Take When Falling If the user gets the feeling that a slip/fall is about to occur, the potential for injury can be reduced by falling in a certain manner. It is recommended to do the following. Tuck in chin, turn your head, and throw an arm up. Raised arms will help protect your head. While falling, twist or roll your body to the side. This allows more of the body to absorb the impact. Keep wrists, elbows, and knees bent. Do not break the fall with hands or elbows. This may cause broken bones. Have as many square inches of your body as possible contact the surface, spreading out the impact. Page 10

13 M. Conclusion The following are key practices to observe: Keep floors clean and dry. Provide warning signs for wet floors, and ensure spills are reported and cleaned up immediately. Ensure snow and ice are shoveled and cleared from entry areas and walks. Where wet activities exist, maintain drainage and provide false floors, platforms, mats, or other dry standing places where practicable, or provide appropriate water proof and slip-resistant footgear. Use no-skid waxes and surfaces coated with grit to create non-slip surfaces in wet areas such as toilet and shower areas. Keep worksites clean and orderly. Eliminate cluttered and obstructed work areas. Keep aisles and passageways clear and in good repair, with no obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard. Provide floor electrical outlets for equipment, so power cords are not run across pathways. Keep exits free from obstruction. Exercise personal responsibility by paying attention to the task to reduce at risk behaviors. Other Recommended Good Work Practices: Use waterproof footwear to decrease slip/fall hazards. Use only properly maintained ladders to reach items. Do not use stools, chairs, or boxes as substitutes for ladders. Re-lay or stretch carpets that bulge or have become bunched to prevent tripping hazards. Aisles and passageways should be sufficiently wide for easy movement and should be kept clear at all times. Temporary electrical cords that cross aisles should be taped or anchored to the floor. Use prudent housekeeping procedures such as cleaning only one side of a passageway at a time. Provide good lighting for all halls and stairwells to help reduce accidents. Instruct workers to use the handrail on stairs, to avoid undue speed, and to maintain an unobstructed view of the stairs ahead even if that means requesting help to manage a bulky load. Eliminate uneven floor surfaces. Wear footwear that fits appropriately. Depth of the sole pattern (lugs) is important in snow, but the material of the outsole is most important. Rubber remains grippy in colder temperatures, while polyurethane gets harder and slipperier on ice or in colder temperatures. Use commercial products to melt ice and increase grip on driveways, walks, and stairs. The addition of commercial grit paint to concrete stairs can help reduce falls. Use traction devices over boots or shoes when icy conditions exist. Use the three points of contact when entering and exiting vehicles and heavy equipment. Don t jump from trucks or equipment. Report unsafe conditions and take the necessary action to warn others of the hazard until it is corrected. Don t lean back in chairs that are not designed for such postures. Use ladders or step stools for reaching higher items, not chairs or unstable shelving or tables. Page 11

14 CITY/TOWN/ENTITY OF FALL PROTECTION PLAN CONTENTS Procedures The Fall Protection Plan 1. Purpose of the Plan 2. Administrative Responsibilities 3. Training Requirements 4. Certificate of Training 5. Work Near Openings 6. Work Along Vertical Structures 7. Work on Roofs 8. Weather Considerations Material and Equipment Standards 1. Guardrail Systems 2. Personal Fall Arrest Systems 3. Warning Line System 4. Covers over Openings 5. Protection from Falling Objects Appendices A. Glossary of Terms B. Training Roster Page 12

15 PROCEDURES 1. Purpose This plan is designed to enable City/Town/Entity of employees to recognize the fall hazards in various City/Town/Entity operations and to establish the procedures that are to be followed in order to prevent falls to lower levels or through holes and openings in walking/working surfaces. These procedures detail the types of fall protection available and when they would be appropriate, and discuss the use of such fall protection methods. 2. Administrative Responsibilities The City s/town s/entity s Risk Manager is the competent person who will be implementing the Fall Protection Plan for the City/Town/Entity of. This person shall be named the Fall Protection Plan Administrator. The Fall Protection Plan Administrator s duties are as follows: a. Prescribing the appropriate fall protection means for the operation performed; b. Arranging for the necessary training to be conducted for new employees and those that have been identified as needing further training; c. Updating the Fall Protection Plan due to changes in operations, or input from employees; d. Providing approval for any interim changes in the Plan and its procedures; e. Ensuring compliance with the Fall Protection Plan by regular field safety checks of actual work operations; and f. Correcting any unsafe acts or conditions immediately. Employees have the following responsibilities for accident prevention: a. Understanding and complying with the City/Town/Entity of Fall Protection Plan; b. Providing feedback to supervisors and the Fall Protection Plan Administrator on unsafe acts or conditions witnessed in the field. 3. Training Requirements The City/Town/Entity of will provide a training program for each employee who may be exposed to fall hazards. This training will be designed to enable each employee to recognize fall hazards, and to understand the procedures Page 13

16 to be followed to minimize these hazards. The following items will be covered in the training: a. The nature of fall hazards in the particular area or operation of concern; b. The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling, and inspecting the fall protection system to be used; c. The use and operation of guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, warning line systems, and other protection to be used; d. The limitations on the use of mechanical equipment during the performance of roofing work on low-sloped roofs; e. The correct procedures for the handling and storage of equipment and materials and the erection of overhead protection; and f. The role of employees in the Fall Protection Plan and job-specific plans. Retraining will be conducted when: a. A supervisor or manager has reason to believe that an employee does not have the understanding or skills covered in the training requirements above; b. Changes in the workplace render previous training obsolete; c. There are changes in the types of fall protection systems and equipment; or d. Inadequacies in an affected employee s knowledge or use of fall protection systems or equipment indicate the employee has not retained the requisite under standing or skill. 4. Certificate of Training The City/Town/Entity of shall verify compliance with the Fall Protection training requirements through a written certification record, using the form in Appendix B. The instructor must sign this form above the table in the appropriate blank. 5. Work Near Openings All openings in a walking/working surface greater than 12 in. by 12 in. shall have perimeter guarding or covering. Measurements of such openings shall be made prior to work at heights. This will allow the appropriate plywood covers to be assembled on the ground. These covers will be placed over openings before any extensive work is done at heights. If openings are to be cut in elevated surfaces, proper protection such as guardrail systems or warning line systems shall be provided to protect the workers. Perimeter guarding shall not be removed without the approval of the supervisor for the job being performed. If extensive work is done on roofs with skylights, warning line systems shall be established to keep workers at least six feet from the skylight openings. Page 14

17 6. Work Along Vertical Structures Any work performed from a fixed, permanent ladder above ten feet on a tank or vertical column shall be accompanied by a rope grab system with the employee(s) at height wearing a full body harness and lanyard. The rope grab pulley shall be so arranged next to the ladder so that it does not encourage the worker to swing away from the ladder in the event of a fall. 7. Work on Roofs For work on roofs where repair, maintenance or sheathing is performed, the following precautions will be taken: a. All workers will ensure that they have secure footing before entering the roof, including cleaning shoes/boots of mud and other slip hazards. b. A warning line system or guardrail system shall be established for any roof work over four hours in duration where a safety monitoring system is not established. c. Materials involved in repair or construction will be staged in a convenient location, at least six feet from an unprotected side or edge, to limit the amount of time workers are exposed to a fall hazard. d. Once the repair or construction begins, workers not involved in that activity shall not stand or walk below or adjacent to openings or exterior walls where materials could fall from above. e. The competent person on the project shall determine where the limits are for those that may walk below the work or establish barricades or a warning line. These boundaries shall be communicated to all those affected. f. The competent person may suspend work on the roof briefly to allow other workers to pass through areas below the work when this would not create a greater hazard. g. Only qualified workers with the required fall protection training shall be allowed to perform roof work. 8. Weather Considerations When wet weather (rain, snow, or sleet) are present, all work at heights which is exposed to the elements shall be suspended until word is received from the Fall Protection Plan Administrator. The Administrator may decide that the conditions are not severe enough to halt operations, and allow work to restart. This determination will be influenced by the urgency of the operation; however, the primary focus will be on employee safety including potential slip hazards. No work shall be performed at heights when wind speeds are above 40 miles per hour. Great care shall be taken in extreme cold to prevent hypothermia, frostbite, or frostnip. If an operation can be rescheduled to protect workers from exposures, this will be done. Page 15

18 MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT STANDARDS 1.0 Guardrail Systems There are a number of dimensions and strength criteria established when guardrails are used for fall protection. They must be constructed so that the top edge rail is not less than 42 inches above the walking/working level. Midrails, screens, or mesh must be constructed when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches high. These members are installed approximately midway between the top rail and the walking/working surface. Screens and mesh, when used, shall extend from the top rail to the walking/ working level and along the entire opening between top rail and supports. Intermediate vertical members (such as balusters) shall not be more than 19 inches apart. Open guardrails shall have intermediate rails or an ornamental pattern such that a sphere of 4 inches in diameter cannot pass through. EXCEPTION: The open space between the intermediate rails or ornamental pattern of guardrails in areas of commercial and industrial-type occupancies, which are not accessible to the public, may be such that a sphere 12 inches in diameter cannot pass through. Guardrails shall be capable of withstanding a force of at least 200 pounds within 12 inches without deflecting to less than 39 inches from the walking/working surface. Midrails, screen and mesh shall be capable of withstanding 150 pounds applied in any downward or outward direction along any portion of these structures. There are material specifications for safe guardrail systems. Guardrail systems shall be surfaced as to prevent injury to employees from punctures, lacerations, or snagging of clothing. Steel banding and plastic banding shall not be used as top rails or mid rails. Top rails and mid rails shall be at least one-quarter inch in diameter or thickness to prevent cuts and lacerations. If wire rope is used for top rails, it shall be flagged at not more that 6-foot intervals with high visibility material. Guardrail systems, when used as falling object protection, shall have openings small enough to prevent passage of potential falling objects. Guardrail systems at or around holes shall be erected on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole. When the holes are used for passage of materials, the hole shall have not more than two sides provided with removable guardrail sections. When the hole is not in use, it shall be closed over with a cover, or a guardrail system shall be provided along all unprotected sides or edges. Materials and equipment shall not be stored within six feet of a roof edge unless guardrails are erected at the edge. Guardrail systems used on ramps and runways shall be erected along each unprotected side or edge. 2.0 Personal Fall Arrest Systems Full body harnesses will be used as a part of a fall arrest system. Body belts shall be used only as positioning devices. All connectors of the lifeline/lanyard and harness shall be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials. Dee-rings and snap-hooks shall be proof tested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds without cracking or deformation. Locking type snap-hooks shall be used for the connection of fall arrest components. Horizontal lifelines shall be designed, installed and used under the supervision of a qualified person as part of a personal fall arrest system. These lifelines Page 16

19 must have a safety factor of at least two. Lanyards and vertical lifelines shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds. Lifelines shall be protected against being cut or abraded. Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards must automatically limit free fall distance to two feet or less. The lifeline or lanyard shall be able to sustain testing with a minimum tensile load of 3,000 pounds with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position. Ropes and straps used in lanyards, lifelines and strength components of body harnesses shall be made from synthetic fibers. Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment shall be independent or any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms. These committed anchorages shall be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per employee. This capability may be established by testing the fall arrest system with a 350 pound weight over a seven foot freefall. The safety of the anchorage must be established by a qualified person and have a safety factor of at least two. Personal fall arrest systems shall not be attached to guardrail systems or hoists. Personal fall arrest systems shall limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800 pounds when used with a full body harness. The system shall be rigged so that an employee can neither free fall more than six feet nor contact any lower level. The fall arrest system shall bring an employee to a complete stop and limit maximum deceleration distance an employee travels in a fall to 3.5 feet. The entire system must have sufficient strength to withstand twice the potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of six feet. The attachment point of the full body harness shall be located in the center of the wearer s back near shoulder level. Body belts, harnesses, and components shall be used only for employee protection from falls and not for hoisting materials. A qualified person must ensure that all components of a fall arrest system are compatible as designed (size, shape, strength, etc.). If components are used from several different manufacturers, they must be interchangeable to be placed in use. Personal fall arrest systems and components shall be inspected by a competent person after being subjected to impact loading. This must be done to ensure the system is undamaged and suitable again for safe use. The employer shall provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall ensure that employees are able to rescue themselves. Personal arrest systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service. If any portion of the fall arrest system is rated for a specific number of falls, the device will be removed from service and rendered unusable upon reaching the specified fall limit. 3.0 Warning Line Systems When working on a roof or elevated surface without a guardrail, it may be appropriate to construct a warning line system. The warning line shall be erected around all sides of the roof work area. When mechanical equipment is being used, the warning line shall be erected not less that six feet from the roof edge which is parallel to the direction of mechanical equipment operation and not less than ten feet from roof edge in the direction perpendicular to equipment operation. Points of access, materials handling areas shall be connected to the work area by an access path formed by two warning lines. When the path to access is not in use, a rope, wire, chain, or other barricade, equivalent in strength and height to the warning line, shall be placed across the path to prevent direct access into the work area. Page 17

20 There are several specifications for the strength, height and visibility of warning line systems. The rope, wire, or chain shall be flagged at not more than 6-foot intervals with high-visibility material. The warning line shall be supported so that the height from the walking/working surface is between 34 and 39 inches high. The support stanchions must be capable of resisting a force of at least 16 pounds applied horizontally against the stanchion. The rope, wire, or chain shall have a minimum tensile strength of 500 pounds. The line shall be attached at each stanchion in such a way that pulling on one section does not result in slack being taken up in adjacent stanchions before the stanchion tips over. No employee shall be allowed in the area between a roof edge and a warning line unless the employee is performing roofing work in that area. Mechanical equipment on roofs shall be used or stored only in areas where employees are protected by a warning line system, guardrail system, or personal fall arrest system. Materials which are piled or stacked near a roof edge shall be self-supporting. 4.0 Covers over Openings Covers located in roadways and vehicular aisles shall be capable of supporting at least twice the maximum axle load of the largest vehicle expected to cross over the cover. All other covers shall be capable of supporting at least twice the weight of the employees, equipment, and the materials that may be imposed on the cover at any one time. Covers shall be secured when installed to prevent accidental displacement by the wind, equipment or employees. All covers shall be color coded or they shall be marked with the word HOLE or COVER to provide warning. 5.0 Protection from Falling Objects Toeboards, when used to prevent falling objects, shall be erected along the edge of the overhead surface for a distance sufficient to protect employees below. Toeboards shall be capable of withstanding a force of at least 50 pounds and have a minimum height of 3 1/2 inches. There shall not be more than a 1/4 inch gap from the walking/working surface. Page 18

21 APPENDIX A Glossary of Terms Definitions Anchorage means a secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards or deceleration devices. Body belt (safety belt) means a strap with means both for securing it about the waist and for attaching it to a lanyard, lifeline, or deceleration device. Body harness means straps which may be secured about the employee in a manner that will distribute the fall arrest forces over at least the thighs, pelvis, waist, chest and shoulders with means for attaching it to other components of a personal fall arrest system. Buckle means any device for holding the body belt or body harness closed around the employee s body. Connector means a device which is used to couple (connect) parts of the personal fall arrest system and positioning device systems together. It may be an independent component of the system, such as a carabineer, or it may be an integral component of part of the system (such as a buckle or dee-ring sewn into a body belt or body harness, or a snap-hook spliced or sewn to a lanyard or self-retracting lanyard). Deceleration device means any mechanism, such as a rope grab, rip-stitch lanyard, specially-woven lanyard, tearing or deforming lanyards, automatic self-retracting lifelines/ lanyards, etc., which serves to dissipate a substantial amount of energy during a fall arrest, or otherwise limit the energy imposed on an employee during fall arrest. Deceleration distance means the additional vertical distance a falling employee travels, excluding a lifeline elongation and free fall distance, before stopping, from the point at which the deceleration device begins to operate. It is measured as the distance between the location of an employee s body belt or body harness attachment point at the moment of activation (at the onset of fall arrest forces) of the deceleration device during a fall, and the location of that attachment point after the employee comes to a full stop. Equivalent means alternative designs, materials, or methods to protect against a hazard which the employer can demonstrate will provide an equal or greater degree of safety for employees than the methods, materials or designs specified in the standard. Failure means load refusal, breakage, or separation of component parts. Load refusal is the point where the ultimate strength is exceeded. Free fall means the act of falling before a personal fall arrest system begins to apply force to arrest the fall. Free fall distance means the vertical displacement of the fall arrest attachment point on the employee s body belt or body harness between onset of the fall and just before the system begins to apply force to arrest the fall. This distance excludes deceleration distance, and lifeline/lanyard elongation, but includes any deceleration device slide distance Page 19

22 or self-retracting lifeline/lanyard extension before they operate and fall arrest forces occur. Guardrail system means a barrier erected to prevent employees from falling to lower levels. Hole means a gap or void 2 inches (5.1 cm) or more in its least dimension, in a floor, roof, or other walking/working surface. Lanyard means a flexible line of rope, wire rope, or strap which generally has a connector at each end for connecting the body belt or body harness to a deceleration device, lifeline, or anchorage. Lifeline means a component consisting of a flexible line for connection to an anchorage at one end to hang vertically (vertical lifeline), or for connection to anchorages at both ends to stretch horizontally (horizontal lifeline), and which serves as a means for connecting other components of a personal fall arrest system to the anchorage. Low-slope roof means a roof having a slope less than or equal to 4 in 12 (vertical to horizontal). Lower levels means those areas or surfaces to which an employee can fall. Such areas or surfaces include, but are not limited to, ground levels, floors, platforms, ramps, runways, excavation pits, tanks, material, water, equipment, structures, or portions thereof. Mechanical equipment means all motor or human propelled wheeled equipment used for roofing work, except wheelbarrows and mop carts. Personal fall arrest system means a system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body belt or body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of these. As of January 1, 1998, the use of a body belt for fall arrest is prohibited. Positioning device system means a body belt or body harness system rigged to allow an employee to be supported on an elevated vertical surface, such as a wall, and work with both hands free while leaning. Rope grab means a deceleration device which travels on a lifeline and automatically, by friction, engages the lifeline and locks so as to arrest the fall of an employee. A rope grab usually employs the principle of inertial locking, cam/level locking, or both. Roofing work means the hoisting, storage, application, and removal of roofing materials and equipment, including related insulation, sheet metal, and vapor barrier work, but not including the construction of the roof deck. Safety-monitoring system means a safety system in which a competent person is responsible for recognizing and warning employees of fall hazards. Self-retracting lifeline/lanyard means a deceleration device containing a drum-wound line which can be slowly extracted from, or retracted onto, the drum under slight tension during normal employee movement, and which, after onset of a fall, automatically locks Page 20

23 the drum and arrests the fall. Snap-hook means a connector comprised of a hook-shaped member with a normally closed keeper, or similar arrangement, which may be opened to permit the hook to receive an object and, when released, automatically closes to retain the object. Steep roof means a roof having a slope greater than 4 in 12 (vertical to horizontal). Toeboard means a low protective barrier that will prevent the fall of materials and equipment to lower levels and provide protection from falls for personnel. Unprotected sides and edges mean any side or edge (except at entrances to points of access) of a walking/working surface, e.g., floor, roof, ramp, or runway where there is no wall or guardrail system at least 39 inches (1.0 m) high. Walking/working surface means any surface, whether horizontal or vertical on which an employee walks or works, including, but not limited to, floors, roofs, ramps, bridges, runways, formwork, and concrete reinforcing steel but not including ladders, vehicles, or trailers, on which employees must be located in order to perform their job duties. Warning line system means a barrier erected on a roof to warn employees that they are approaching an unprotected roof side or edge, and which designates an area in which roofing work may take place without the use of guardrail, body belt, or safety net systems to protect employees in the area. Work area means that portion of a walking/working surface where job duties are being performed. Page 21

24 APPENDIX B Training Log Attendance Sheet COURSE INSTRUCTOR NAME (Please Print) DEPT. DATE COURSE NAME SIGNATURE Page 22

25 Sources of Information Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) State of Texas Office of Risk Management University of Florida Circular 869, Revised February By Carol J. Lehtola, William J. Becker, and Charles M. Brown Alaska Municipal League Joint Insurance Association Slip and Fall Prevention Resources The following resources can be used to assist employee training. This will allow individuals to receive this training in a variety of ways that best accommodates the entity. CIRSA DVD s 4107 Slips, Trips, And Falls: Real Life 4080 The A,B,C s Of Your Personal Fall Arrest System CIRSA Hazard/Loss Alerts Preventing Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries Serious Injuries Occur When Entering and Exiting Vehicles Worker Injured After Falling Out of Skid Steer Bucket CIRSA Online University Training Program Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls Fall Protection Posters Falls Can Lead To Serious Injuries Prevent Falls on Ice and Snow CIRSA Safety Stops Falls Prevention on Ice and Snow Ladder Safety Scaffold Safety Slips, Trips, and Falls CIRSA Videos Video Number Title 4096 Fall Protection - Personal Safety Systems 4035 Slip, Trip, and Falls 4086 Ladders Safety: Take the Right Steps 4056 Safety on your Feet! (footwear) 5083 On Again, Off Again A Guide to Mounting and Dismounting Heavy Equipment OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Standards 29 CFR Subpart D - Walking-Working Surfaces Definitions General requirements. Page 23

26 Guarding floor and wall openings and holes Fixed industrial stairs Portable wood ladders Portable metal ladders Fixed ladders Safety requirements for scaffolding Manually propelled mobile ladder stands and scaffolds (towers) Other working surfaces. Parlay International Avoiding Slips and Falls at the Worksite #61 Avoiding Slips and Falls at the Office #62 Working Safely With Ladders Step and Straight Ladder Guidelines #58 Websites ANSI Fall Protection Code The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Code includes the following standards: ANSI/Z : Definitions and Nomenclature Used for Fall Protection and Fall Arrest ANSI/Z : Safety Requirements for Personal Fall Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components ANSI/Z : Minimum Requirements for a Comprehensive Managed Fall Protection Program ANSI/Z : Safety Requirements for Positioning and Travel Restraint Systems ANSI/Z : Safety Requirements for Assisted-Rescue and Self-Rescue Systems, Subsystems and Components ANSI/Z (R1999): Safety Requirements for Personal Fall Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components ANSI/A : Safety Requirements for Workplace Walking/Working Surfaces and Their Access; Workplace, Floor, Wall and Roof Openings; Stairs and Guardrails Systems ANSI/A : Standard for the Provision of Slip Resistance on Walking/Working Surfaces ANSI/A : Safety Requirements for Temporary Roof and Floor Holes, Wall Openings, Stairways and Other Unprotected Edges in Construction and Demolition Operations Page 24

27 ASTM F : Standard Practice for Safe Walking Surfaces ASTM F (R2004): Standard Guide for Composing Walkway Surface Evaluation and Incident Report Forms for Slips, Stumbles, Trips and Falls ASTM F1240-0: Standard Guide for Ranking Footwear Bottom Materials on Contaminated Walkway Surfaces According to Slip Resistance Test Results ASTM F (R2003): Standard Guide for Selection of Certain Walkway Page 25

28 December 2006 CIRSA HAZARD ALERT Published by the CI R SA Loss Control Depar tment Your Par tner in Risk Management Preventing Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries Each year many people experience injuries from slips, trips, and falls. On average, they are the number two cause of all accidental deaths, preceded only by vehicle crashes. Some recent examples of injuries to employees include: - An office employee was talking on the phone and her feet got tangled up in a telephone cord. As she got up and started to walk, she fell, injuring her ankle, knee, hip and wrist. Surgery for the wrist was required. Five weeks of lost time wages and medical expenses resulted in costs exceeding $21, A police officer was quickly exiting his patrol car and fell, twisting his back. Lost time, surgery and physical therapy, injections to the back, and medications exceeded $10, A public works employee was stepping off a concrete curb onto the street and felt his knee pop. Surgery, medications, and physical therapy all contributed to more than $30,000 in costs and 20 weeks of lost time wages. Some of the conditions that contribute to injuries from slips, trips, and falls are: Not looking at walking surfaces for hazards, spills, uneven surfaces, and slick floors. Not wearing proper shoes. Allowing clutter such as hand tools, piles of papers, electrical cords, etc. to remain in walking and working areas. Not protecting floor openings and holes. Not maintaining a clean work site. Management, safety committees, and individual employees can all work together to ensure the work environment is free from slip, trip, and fall hazards. Here are some safety tips that you should consider: During wet and icy weather conditions, wear appropriate shoes. If extension cords are going to be across walking areas, secure them with tape or other covering. Post signs or other warnings to alert employees to dangers such as wet and slippery floors. Regularly inspect the work area for slips, trips, and fall hazards. Keep stairs clear of temporary storage and other trip hazards. Watch where you are walking and be observant for all hazards. When exiting vehicles or heavy equipment, be sure to plant your feet firmly, and never jump off of equipment or from elevated surfaces, such as loading docks Cherry Creek Nor th Drive Denver Colorado

29 November 2009 CIRSA LOSS ALERT Published by the CIRSA Loss Control Department Providing Risk Management Solutions Serious Injuries Occur When Entering and Exiting Vehicles Heavy equipment operators, firemen, police officers and other entity personnel who frequently enter and exit their vehicles are experiencing a significant number of back, knee and shoulder injuries while entering and exiting vehicles. The most common vehicle entry and exit injuries occur during the following actions: 1. Jumping from the cab or bed of a truck. 2. Losing one s balance when climbing into or exiting a vehicle. 3. Slipping as one s weight is transferred during entering or exiting the vehicle. To help prevent these injuries, the following safety precautions should be followed. Footwear should be sturdy and provided with non-slip soles and heels. During winter conditions, consider providing special ice gripping footwear. Running boards, treads, steps, footholds and platforms should be kept free of mud, ice, snow, grease and other hazards. In hot and cold weather, wear gloves to help grip the hand supports. Avoid loose clothing that may become entangled on the vehicle or equipment. When provided, use the grab bars. If a grab bar is not present, grip the seat or other fixed object on the vehicle. Use the steering wheel only if it is locked since it may turn and create an imbalance. Use caution when grabbing a door since it may move during entry and exit and cause you to lose your balance. Keep three points of contact (two hands and one foot or both feet and one hand) with the vehicle at all times when entering, exiting, ascending, or descending. Take your time. Use steady movements to avoid slips, falls or striking other objects. Don t jump to the ground. Jumping from a vehicle greatly increases the likelihood of an injury to the back, knee or ankle. Before exiting the vehicle, look for snow, ice, water, oil, or uneven surfaces before you step. For larger vehicles/equipment, face the vehicle and step down backwards using grab bars or other stable objects. Use all the steps. When exiting a passenger vehicle, use the seat, steering wheel, or door to help transition your weight from a sitting to a standing position. After the weight is transferred to the lead foot and while still using the three points of contact, place your other foot on the ground surface. Once in the standing position, take small steps to avoid twisting a knee. By observing for hazards, using the three points of contact, and not jumping, you can greatly reduce the risk of a serious injury. Practice these procedures until they become habits Cherry Creek North Drive Denver Colorado

30 November 2008 CIRSA LOSS ALERT Published by the CIRSA Loss Control Department Providing Risk Management Solutions Worker Injured After Falling Out Of Skid Steer Bucket A public works employee was injured after he and the load fell out of the bucket of a skid steer. A supervisor instructed two workers to use the skid steer to move large pieces of concrete to form a walking path. The load was too heavy and awkward to stay on the equipment; therefore, one of the workers stood on top of the concrete in the bucket as a counterbalance to keep it in place. The concrete far outweighed the employee who was standing on top of it. While traveling, the concrete slab flipped out of the bucket, throwing the worker off, with the slab landing on top of his body. The other worker, who was driving the skid steer, ran to help his coworker by using a crowbar to lift the slab. While attempting to lift the slab, he injured his back in the rescue. It is fortunate that the crushing injuries were not more severe. It is unfortunate that this incident happened at all. What could have prevented this incident? The two workers felt that it was unsafe to use the skid steer for this task, but they did not want to disobey their supervisor. If they had brought their concerns to the attention of the supervisor, an alternate method might have been found. Work towards a safety culture in your entity that empowers employees to make decisions about safe work practices. Another department located a few miles down the road had larger and more appropriate pieces of heavy equipment, such as a back hoe or front end loader. In an effort to get the task done quickly and without bothering the other department, the supervisor instructed the workers to use the equipment they had on site. The other department s employees would have gladly brought the heavy equipment down the road. They simply needed to be asked and allowed to schedule it in their work load. Don t take shortcuts where safety is concerned. The small amount of time and effort to bring over the appropriate equipment could have averted the accident. Following the manufacturer s instructions or industry best practices, people should not be permitted to ride in the buckets or use them as a work platform. For additional skid steer safety information, please visit: NIOSH Alert: National Ag Safety Database: Search for bulletins and a 15-minute training guide Cherry Creek North Drive Denver Colorado

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38 Slips and Falls Checklist Location: Date: Inspected By: I. Exterior Inspection Yes No N/A Remarks a. Parking lot pavement is in good condition. b. Bumper guards are good condition. c. Ample drainage is provided for water removal. d. Parking and walkway markings are visible. e. Curbs are in good condition. II. Entrance Area a. Ramps are in good repair. b. Stairs are in good repair. c. Handrails are provided and in good repair. d. Doorways are accessible for the disabled. e. Lighting is adequate. f. Nonslip surfaces or mats are provided at entrances. III. Interior a. Hallways are mopped one-half at a time with employees using signage and cones. b. All hallways are free of storage. c. All floors are free of small objects. d. Approved ladders and step stools are provided. e. Hallway and stairway railings are secure. f. Stairway treads and edges are in good condition. g. Extension cords and fixture wirings are arranged to avoid tripping hazards. h. Shower and lavatory floors are routinely checked. i. Kitchen/lunchroom floors are routinely checked.

39 Area of Concern Identification of Hazardous Conditions Flooring and Stairs Matting and Grating Floor Finishes Housekeeping Slip and Fall Prevention Checklist Requirements Are caution signs posted at potential slip/fall areas? Are signs above knee height and visible from all sides? Are signs stored near doorways? Are ice and snow removed from exterior walks and lots? Are tracked-in water and spills promptly mopped-up? Is appropriate absorbent used for chemical spills? Can ongoing problems be eliminated through design changes? Have items been relocated to eliminate hazards? Is temporary wiring across floors encased in protective rubber strips or taped to the floor with yellow tape? Are cracks, potholes and other tripping exposures identified, promptly repaired or posted to warn others? Are drop-offs, inclines, or temporary surfaces marked with yellow or orange slip resistant tape or paint? Where wet floors exist from mopping, are single entry rooms doors blocked until the floors dry? Is high traction material used on steps and landings exposed to wet conditions? Are stair risers uniform in height? Is tread depth adequate? Are stairs equipped with inch high handrails? Are floors free of holes, cracks, frayed or ripped carpet, and other tripping hazards? Are areas where changes in interior elevation exist properly illuminated? Are recessed absorbent "walk off" mats of low profile used to control soil and liquids at all building entry doors? Are mats inspected and routinely cleaned? Do carpet mats extend at least 20 feet on hard floors from entry doors? Do mats have nonslip backing? Are floor grates level to the floor and are holes small enough to prevent shoe heels from catching? Are high traction cleaning products used? Are products certified by NFSI for performance? Are floors rinsed after cleaning to avoid polymerized film buildup? Are work areas, hallways, storage areas and mechanical rooms well organized, clean, dry, sanitary and free of obstacles? Where floors are normally wet, is drainage adequate? Are wood floors free of nails, splinters, holes, and loose boards? Is a log maintained of cleaning schedules, products used, and procedures? Conforms Action Taken Yes No Comments

40 Area of Concern Footwear Ladders Open Sided Platforms and Floor Openings Vehicles and Equipment Staff Training Requirements Do employees wear slip resistant footwear or protective overshoes? Have employees received ladder safety training? Are ladders used instead of makeshift climbing items? Is load capacity not exceeded when using ladders? Are three legged ladders prohibited? Are ladders inspected before use for cracks, loose rungs, slivers, and sharp edges? Are steps free of oil and grease? Are defective ladders removed from service and tagged "Dangerous Do Not Use?" Are ladders not placed in front of doors opening toward the ladder unless the door is blocked, locked or guarded? Are ladders used for roof access extended at least three feet above the roof line? Are straight ladders used with a 4:1 angle? Are fixed ladders extending more than 20 feet above the ground equipped with a cage or fall protection provided? Are all platforms/landings protected with a rail 42 inches in height and a mid-rail? Is the railing capable of sustaining 200 pounds of pressure applied at any direction at any point on the top rail? Are all floor openings properly covered and kept closed? When open, are floor openings guarded? Have employees been trained in proper mounting and dismounting procedures? Do employees always face the vehicle when mounting and dismounting using the three point system? Are steps kept clean and dry? Are employees prohibited from riding in the bed of pick-ups and on trailers? Have all employees been trained in safety procedures and to correct or report hazards that might lead to accidents? Are slip and fall and accident prevention policies/procedures posted on bulletin boards? Have all employees received documented training on these policies? Conforms Action Taken Yes No Comments

41 Ladder Inspection Form Provided by Werner Co. Company Name: Ladder Reference Number: Inspector Please Print Dept. Date. Stepladder Size ft. Circle Areas of Damage Fiberglass Aluminum Wood Actions: Steps: Loose, Cracked, Bent or Missing Rails: Yes Cracked, Bent, Split or Frayed Rail Shields Labels: Missing or Not Readable Pail Shelf: Loose, Bent, Missing or Broken Top: Cracked, Loose or Missing Spreader: Loose, Bent or Broken General: Rust, Corrosion or Loose Other: Bracing, Shoes, Rivets Ladder tagged as damaged & removed from use Ladder is in good condition No Extension Ladder Size ft. Fiberglass Circle Areas of Damage Aluminum Actions: Yes Rungs: Loose, Cracked, Bent or Missing Rails: Cracked, Bent, Split or Frayed Labels: Missing or Not Readable Rung Locks: Loose, Bent, Missing or Broken Hardware: Missing, Loose or Broken Shoes: Worn, Broken or Missing Rope/Pulley: Loose, Bent or Broken Other: Bracing Rivets General: Rust, Corrosion or Loose Ladder tagged as damaged & removed from use Ladder is in good condition No

42 Ladder Inspection Form Provided by Werner Co. Specialty Ladder Fiberglass Aluminum Wood Model Number: Mark all that apply Yes Steps/Rungs: Loose, Cracked Bent or Missing Rails: Cracked, Bent, Split or Frayed Labels: Missing or Not Readable Hardware: Missing, Loose or Broken Fasteners: Rust, Corrosion, Loose or Missing Top: Cracked, Loose, or Missing Spreader: Loose, Bent or Broken Outriggers: Missing, Rust, Corrosion or Loose for scaffolding General: Rust, Corrosion or Loose Hinges: Loose, Bent or Missing Locks: Loose, Bent, Broken or Missing Bracing Front,Rear: Loose, Bent, Broken or Missing Rivets: Rust, Corrosion, Loose, Missing Shoes: Worn, Broken or Missing Platform: Loose, Bent, Broken or Missing Rail Shield: Missing or Loose Shoulder Bolt: Rust, Corrosion or Loose Casters: Rust, Corrosion or Loose for scaffolding No Actions: Ladder tagged as damaged & removed from use Ladder is in good condition GM Werner Co. 01/09

43 LADDER SAFETY Observer: Date: BEHAVIORS SAFE AT-RISK COMMENTS Equipment Inspection Examine ladder - look for dings, dents & distortion Work Zone Safety Check for Overhead Electric (fiberglass for electric areas) Ladder extends 3' above top of surface Objects not used to extend height of ladder Ladder angle - 70 degrees or 1 foot from wall for every 4 feet of height Faces ladder when ascending or descending One (1) person on ladder at any given time Ladder not placed in walkway(s) Tools transferred by hand lines Hooks or other devices used to hold equipment Ladder completely lowered before moving Top step not used for standing Ladder not used as scaffolding Equipment not placed on ladder while in vehicle Ladder not left unattended Ladder set up on flat surface TOTALS:

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