Fall Protection
FIRST THINGS FIRST INTRODUCTIONS HOUSEKEEPING Registration forms & certificates Hours of course Breaks & lunch Emergency procedures Cell phones Let s keep it casual!
YOUR EXPECTATIONS
Introduction Each year there are over 100,000 preventable incidents of work related falls. Falls account for the most number of deaths in the workplace. In addition to the loss of life, each year millions of dollars are lost to insurance premiums, worker compensation claims and liability costs.
Introduction A good fall protection program can save lives, offset losses, and protect jobs. This module will take you through ways to protect yourself and your workers in different situations.
Introduction Objective 1: Define Fall Protection and review the regulations. Objective 2: Describe the proper use of guardrails and travel restraints in Fall Prevention. Objective 3: Describe Fall Arrest components and their use.
Introduction Objective 4: Describe the procedures for inspecting, maintaining and storing Fall Arrest equipment. Objective 5: Explain the safe use of ladders. Objective 6: Explain the safe use of Scaffolding. Objective 7: Explain Rescue Planning in Fall Arrest Systems.
QUESTIONS?
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT THAT WE UNDERSTAND OUR OHS ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES?
BECAUSE ACCIDENTS COST BIG BUCKS!
THE COSTS OF ACCIDENTS $1 Workers Compensation $5 The Hidden Costs
ACCIDENTS CAN DAMAGE YOUR REPUTATION In the eyes of the public and in the eyes of your co-workers & employees
BECAUSE THE LAW MAY HOLD THE ORGANIZATION AND INDIVIDUALS ACCOUNTABLE!
OFFENCES & PENALTIES $100,000 and/or 2 years
THE MOST IMPORTANT REASON WHY?
A TYPICAL DAY IN NOVA SCOTIA 420,000 people go to work 95 are hurt and need medical assistance 25 are hurt and will not return tomorrow Every 14 days, someone dies on the job!
THE The RIPPLE Ripple Affect EFFECT
QUESTIONS?
Fall Protection Definition In the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations Fall Protection and Scaffolding: Fall Protection can be defined as: fall protection means a harness, net, rope, safety belt, structure or other equipment, or device or means of (i) restraining a person who is at risk of falling, or (ii) stopping a person who has fallen fall arrest system means a system of physical components attached to a person that stops a person during a fall. Fall arrest system components may include a full body harness, lanyard, rope grab, vertical lifeline, static line, anchor points and other connecting components. May 18, 2000 Federal Jurisdiction: Refer to Canada Occupational Health & Safety Regulations (COHSRs)
Fall Protection Requirement In general, fall protection is required when there is a hazard of: Falling 3 metres or more to the nearest safe surface or water Falling onto a surface or thing that could cause injury where work must be performed on or from a vehicle, rail car or other mobile equipment, fall protection is required only where and to the extent reasonably practicable fall protection may be required at lower heights depending on the surface condition below. May 18, 2000
Fall Protection Requirement cont Falling into an open tank, pit, or vat containing hazardous material Falling from a temporary structure more than 6 metres above a permanent safe level Where not be practical to perform work other than from a ladder and it is not practical for the worker to maintain three points of contact while performing the work
Fall Prevention Fall prevention systems prevent a worker from entering an area where a fall hazard is present, eliminating the need for a Fall Arrest System. Fall Prevention is achieved through the use of: travel restraints and/or guardrails If travel restraints or guardrails are unfeasible a Fall Arrest system must be used.
QUESTIONS?
Guardrails A system of vertical and horizontal boards or rails that reduce the risk of falls and warn of a hazard. The figure shows the typical dimensions and construction of a guard rail. Dimensions may change according to regulations.
Guardrails
Guardrails Guardrails must be provided: Around an uncovered opening in a floor or other surface At the perimeter or open side of a floor, mezzanine, balcony or other surface, or A work area where a person is exposed to the hazard of a fall
Guardrails The following guidelines should be followed when constructing guardrails: Posts at intervals not more than 2.4 metres (8 feet) apart and are secured against movement; Top rail.91 to 1.06 m (36-42 inches) above the work area; Toe board securely attached extending from the base of the posts to a height of 102 mm
Guardrails If you are using wood for guardrails: Top and intermediate rails should be 51 mm by 102 mm Number One Grade spruce or equivalent If you are using wire rope for guardrails: Wire rope railings must be at least 8 mm thick High visibility markings every 1.5 metres on the top rail Turnbuckles for tightening
Guardrails Manufactured guardrails can be used if the equivalent level of safety to the previous construction methods is provided. Guardrails do not have to be constructed around an opening in a floor if and only if: the opening is covered with fastened planks or plywood and secured against upward and lateral movement and identified by a sign warning of a hazard.
QUESTIONS?
Travel Restraints A personal travel restriction system stops a person from getting close enough to a location where they may fall. It utilizes a body belt or harness connected to an anchor point or lifeline.
Drowning Hazard Where the distance to the water is greater than 10ft, fall protection must be used. However, if the distance at which the worker is working is less than 10ft to deep water, fall protection is not always the best option. May be more practical for the worker to wear a personal flotation device (PDF). If fall is less than 10ft. PFD is only intended to replace a fall arrest system where a worker is < 10ft and water is deep.
Drowning Hazard Where a risk of drowning exists and fall protection is not in use, the following equipment and personnel must be provided. A motor boat capable of safe and timely rescue; A life buoy with 15 meters of polypropylene rope that is at least 10mm. in diameter or rope of equivalent protection; A boat hook;
Drowning Hazard An audible alarm system to notify of an accident and start rescue; Trained persons available to perform rescue and use rescue equipment; Where there is a risk of falling into fast moving water, a line with floats attached must be placed across the water for rescue. The rope must be polypropylene 10mm in diameter or equivalent. This situation would apply to bridge work over a river but might also apply to some harbours.
Roof Work (Prov. Regs) Where roof work is being performed, there is a need for fall protection. On a flat roof, the workplace parties can decide on the fall protection used, Must meet the requirement of the regulation (guardrails or travel restraint).
Roof Work (Prov. Regs) Where work is being done from or on a roof that has a slope that is greater than or equal to 3/12 but less than 6/12, under circumstances described in subsection (1), a fully decked scaffold or roof brackets and planks at the base of the roof. If work is performed at the gable ends, the worker must use a fall arrest system or a fully planked scaffold must be installed. More on scaffolds and ladders later!
Roof Work (Prov. Regs) For a roof with a slope of between 6/12 and 9/12, roof brackets and planks must be installed as work progresses on the roof, to ensure support for the worker. If work is performed at the gable ends, the worker must use a fall arrest system or a fully planked scaffold must be installed.
Roof Work (Prov. Regs) Where a roof has a slope greater than 9/12, a fully decked scaffold must be placed at the base of the roof and roof brackets planks must be used as work progresses. Worker must have and use a fall arrest system as a means of fall protection.
Roof Work (Prov. Regs) As with other workplaces, fall protection must be used where roof work is performed 3 metres or more above: the nearest safe surface or above water. a surface or thing that could cause injury to a person upon contact. an open tank top, pit, or vat.
QUESTIONS?
Fall Arrest System Fall Arrest includes at least one of the following methods: Safety net Fall arrest system
Fall Arrest Components A good Fall Arrest system is designed to be passive and should not interfere with the work operation. However, in the event of a free fall, the system assumes an active roll and protects the worker from serious injury.
Fall Arrest Components When an object is in free fall it quickly gains energy. A falling worker who hits the ground will dissipate all the energy of the fall in his/her body. Fall arrest equipment reduces or eliminates the large forces placed on the body in the event of a fall.
Fall Arrest Components To get an idea of the forces involved in falls we must know something about force itself. Force is measured in a unit called the Newton (N). In order to keep 1kg of mass from falling, a force of 9.8N is required. The largest force the human body can take without injury is 4000N = 4kN = 900lbs.
Fall Arrest Components Small falls without protection can produce very large forces and cause serious injury. For example: A 6 ft. fall with a 6 ft. lanyard (no shock absorber) generates a force of 18.66kN or 4200 lbs. A 4 ft. fall with a 4 ft. lanyard (no shock absorber) generates a force of 8kN or 1800 lbs. A 4 ft. fall with a 4 ft. lanyard with shock absorber generates a force of 4kN or 900 lbs. Fall Arrest Systems are important!
Fall Arrest Components There are three main components to Fall Arrest Systems. Full Body Harness Lanyard Anchor Point
Full Body Harness Consists of leg and shoulder straps and an upper back suspension unit Distributes shock loads toward the pelvic area, the strongest part of the body. Generally, harnesses should be made from synthetic fibre and heat cut to prevent fraying. Harness has a sliding D-ring for attachment. The dorsal D-ring should be located between the shoulder blades. Proper fit is essential!
Full Body Harness Check the manufacturer s label: Manufacturer identification Harness size Date of manufacture Model number
Full Body Harness There are 5 different harness classes: Group A fall arrest Group D controlled descent Group E confined space entry (recovery) Group L ladder climbing Group P work positioning
Lanyards A lanyard is a flexible line used to secure a person to a lifeline, static line, or a fixed anchor point.
Lanyards Usually short in length and made from high quality, high tensile strength, webbing, rope or steel cable. For safety reasons a lanyard should be attached to an anchor point or lifeline above the shoulder. Wire rope lanyards do not stretch and must therefore be used with a shock absorber.
Lanyards Other types of lanyards include: Lanyard snap hooks These lanyards usually come with a locking snap hook on each end. Remember that the body harness must be compatible with the lanyard. roll-out of the snap hook can occur when small D-rings cause the snap hook gate to push open in a twisting action.
Lanyards Fixed Length and Adjustable Lanyards Fixed length and adjustable lanyards are usually made from nylon webbing or 16mm (5/8 in.) diameter rope. Both come in a variety of fixed lengths with the nylon web type also coming in adjustable lengths.
Lanyards Retractable Lanyards Made of nylon webbing and operate in a way similar to a car seatbelt. Allow the worker to move around while the mechanism s spring action keeps the lanyard tight. If there is sudden movement detected, as in a fall, the mechanism locks and limits the fall distance. Retractable lanyard can only be used in a fall arrest system.
Anchor Points An anchor point is the place at which the fall arrest system is secured. Anchor points must be able to withstand the maximum load to be imposed on the system or 17.8kN (4000 lbs.), whichever is greater.
Anchor Points Anchor points should be located to minimize the pendulum effect should a fall occur free of sharp edges that might cut or chafe other fall arrest components high enough that if a fall happens the system will not allow the worker to contact a lower level, this is known as the fall clearance
Fall Clearance Anchor Points
Anchor Points When selecting suitable anchor points you must exercise good judgment. As a general rule if you would not be willing to hang a small car from the anchor point then it probably shouldn t be used. Remember large forces of up to 5000lbs can occur when a person free falls a relatively short distance.
Anchor Points Anchor points that are unsuitable are: Guardrails Metal grating Sheet metal Ductwork Roof vents Small pipes Metal chimneys TV antennas
QUESTIONS?
Other Fall Arrest Components In addition to the three main components mentioned, there are other components that need to be addressed.
Shock Absorbers Free falls of more than 4 ft require a shock absorbing system. Therefore the maximum length of a lanyard without a shock absorber is 4ft.
Shock Absorbers Shock absorbers are identified by the free fall distance for which they can be used. Shock absorbers are designed to reduce the stopping force on the body to 900lbs (the force at which the human body will not be injured).
QUESTIONS?
Lifelines Vertical Lifelines A polypropylene lifeline (vertical line) can be used with a rope grab to allow a worker to climb in a vertical direction. The lifeline must be 16mm (5/8 in.) or equivalent material. Nylon and low stretch (Kermantle) are also used as lifelines; softeners or padding may be needed to protect the line from sharp edges.
Lifelines Wire rope lifelines are used in areas of high heat, chemicals, etc. where standard rope would be damaged. Vertical lifelines should extend to a safe surface, be weighted or tied off to prevent tangling and to permit the rope grab may slide up. Ensure the arrow on the grab is pointing in the right direction. Free of knots
Lifelines Retractable Lifelines Strictly used for fall arrest, they are characterized by a spring loaded reel with a line that is let out freely below certain speeds. Normal movements will not activate the braking system but a sudden movement, such as a fall, will engage the brake causing the unit to stop in a few feet.
Lifelines Many retractable lifelines have fall indicators. Do not use if the indicator shows a fall has occurred. Always use a retractable lifeline block in the vertical position. It is made of wire rope, so must not be used around electricity. Usually designed to be anchored above the worker.
Vertical Lifeline Lifelines Retractable Lifeline
Lifelines Horizontal Lifelines A rope that is attached between two or more anchor points and to which a fall arrest system is attached. Considered the best means of fall protection for walking structural steel beams. Components must be able to withstand the maximum load likely to be imposed or a load of 8 kn, whichever is greater.
Lifelines Horizontal Lifelines, con t The design can be a standard design or one specifically engineered for that site. The design must indicate how the system is to be arranged, including how and where it is to be anchored. All required components of the system must be specified. Clearly state how many workers can be attached at one time. Spell out instructions for installation, inspection and maintenance.
QUESTIONS?
Rope Grabs A device used to prevent a fall when ascending/descending roofs, ladders, structures or towers. It moves up and down on an approved lifeline and will lock onto the lifeline if a fall is sensed.
Rope Grabs It can be removed or attached along any part of the lifeline. Both automatic and manual types are available.
Rope Grabs An automatic rope grab moves freely along the lifeline with you; if you fall, it locks onto the line automatically, stopping you in a short distance. It is recommended you limit your lanyard to 0.6 metres (2 ft.). A manual rope grab does not move freely with you. It is locked into position and must be positioned by hand. Manual rope grabs are best suited for fall arrest systems.
Carabiners (D-clips)
QUESTIONS?
10 Essential Points 1. Inspect your equipment before every use. 2. Don and adjust your harness properly. 3. Use your shock absorber or your shock-absorbing lanyard whenever possible. 4. Connect all components of your FAS using only compatible connecting hardware. 5. Attach your FAS only to a suitable anchorage.
10 Essential Points 6. Keep your potential fall distance to a minimum 7. Consider the conditions of your workplace when choosing your equipment. 8. Care for your equipment as you would care for yourself. 9. Know the rescue procedure and equipment in case you should fall. 10.Be properly trained to use any fall protection equipment.
QUESTIONS?
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment General Equipment must be inspected by a competent person, usually the user, before each use. Detailed inspections must be conducted at regular intervals by a supervisor or competent person. This inspection should be done at the very least once a year. Inspections must be recorded and kept on file.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Harness Before you put the harness on: Examine all webbing on both sides from side to side. Flex the webbing over the fingers to expose damage. Examine for loose stitching. Make sure harness has all its straps; sub-pelvic, etc.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Look for damage from cuts, tears, abrasion, heat burns, kinks, knots, broken strands or excessive wear. Check for discolored, fused, brittle or melted fibres may indicate damage from heat, paint, solvent or chemicals. Inspect D-rings and O-rings for cracks, bends, nicks, corrosion. Check the metal wear pad on the base of the D-ring and ensure the D-ring pivots freely.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Lanyards Lanyards should be inspected for signs of shock loading. Any piece of equipment that has arrested a fall must be removed from service, inspected by the competent person, and destroyed or returned to the manufacturer for evaluation.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Evidence of damage to hardware will require the equipment to be removed from service. Look for cracks, sharp edges, deformation, corrosion, chemical attack, excessive heating, modifications, excessive aging or wear. Check buckles to ensure they are not bent or distorted, are free-moving and engaging correctly.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Anchor Points There are two types of anchor points, those that are designated and tagged as such and are made exclusively for this purpose. The other type of anchor point is those which the user deems as suitable. If you would not hang a small car from the anchor point do not use it.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Check with a supervisor Make sure you know the fall clearance and be aware of electrical hazards, hot pipes, moving machinery, etc. Again check all hardware associated with anchorage for cracks, nicks, gouges, corrosion, and other signs of damage.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Shock Absorbers Check for pouch damage. Check for damaged stitching on the end loops. Check for damage to snap hooks, carabiners, or chain links. If a shock absorber is partially deployed or has been used to arrest a fall it must be removed from service.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Lifelines Inspect entire length of rope and any splicing and anchor connection points.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Lifelines Look for birdcaging, reduction in rope diameter, chemical damage, and heat damage. If the lifeline is permanent, check that the inspection tag is up to date.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Equipment Hardware Compatibility Make sure that all snaphooks, D-rings, carabiners and anchorage hardware mate together properly. There should be no risk of false connection. Latches must close securely
Maintenance and Storage Always refer to manufacturer s instructions Equipment in need of maintenance shall be tagged and removed from service. All hardware should be cleaned and lubricated with a light oil. Store in a clean, dry place, free or corrosives and harmful fumes. Store out of direct sunlight
Maintenance and Storage Equipment should be thoroughly dried. Keep equipment away from excessive heat. Lubricate parts as recommended by the manufacturer. Retractable lifelines should be dismantled, inspected and re-assembled according to the manufacturer s specs by a competent person.
QUESTIONS?
Ladders Ladders are relied upon heavily in the construction trades. Half of all accidents involving ladders are related to the work done from the ladder. About 35% of the accidents are related to an unexplained loss of footing. Proper working practices and safety measures can be taken to reduce the likelihood of injury or death.
Causes of Ladder Accidents Ladders are not held, tied off, or secured Slippery surfaces and unfavourable weather Workers fail to grip ladders when climbing Workers assume unsafe positions (leaning) Placement on poor footing or improper angles Defective ladders High winds causing ladders to topple Working near electrical lines
Types of Ladders Wooden Ladder Never paint a wooden ladder; paint hides signs of deterioration and rot. Inspect frequently for splits in side rails and rungs. Warped or loose rungs Loose metal hardware and deformation of metal parts.
Types of Ladders Aluminium Ladder Aluminum ladders are more liable to damage than wooden ladders. Never use where contact with electricity is possible. Check side rails and rungs for dents, bends and loose rungs. If repair by competent person is not possible, destroy.
Types of Ladders Fibreglass Ladder Fibreglass-reinforced side-rails do not conduct electricity well and are resistant to corrosion. They are heat sensitive; they must not be exposed to heat above 93 degrees C. Inspect for cracks and tufts of exposed glass fibre.
Types of Ladders Step and Platform Ladders Must have strong spreader arms which lock securely in the open position. Never stand on the top shelf of a step ladder. (In other words, do not stand on the shelf, the very top step or the next step down.)
QUESTIONS?
Safe Ladder Usage Check ladders for defects Practice good housekeeping at the top and bottom of ladders. Secure the base and top against accidental movement.
Safe Ladder Usage Set ladder on firm level surface or use a mudsill. Make sure ladder rails extend three feet above the landing area. This allows for secure grip while stepping on or off. Set straight or extension ladders one foot out for every 3 to 4 feet up.
Safe Ladder Usage Check for overhead power lines. Always face the ladder when climbing up or down, or during work. Maintain three-point contact when climbing up or down. Do not carry tools up and down; use a rope. Keep your center of gravity between the side rails.
Safe Ladder Usage Keep boots free of mud and grease. When working three meters or more above the ground, wear a harness and lanyard tied off to an anchor. Never straddle the space between the ladder and a structure. Never erect ladders on boxes, scaffolds, or any other unstable surface.
Safe Ladder Usage Use fall arrest equipment such as ladder climbing devices or lifelines when working from long ladders or when climbing vertical fixed ladders. Never use ladders horizontally as scaffold planks. Stand no higher than the third or fourth rung from the top. Never set up ladders in doorways. Get help when erecting long, awkward ladders.
QUESTIONS?
Scaffolding Safety Concerns Scaffolding accidents occur mostly under the following circumstances: Erecting and dismantling Climbing up and down scaffolds Planks not properly secured Platforms not properly built
Scaffolding Safety Concerns cont Platforms without guardrails Missing components (base plates, connections, braces) Moving scaffolds near power lines Moving scaffolds with workers on the platform
Scaffolding Scaffold Considerations Choosing what type of scaffolding should be used depends on the following: Expected load on the scaffold (workers, tools, etc.) Site conditions (interior, exterior) Height required of scaffold Type of work
Scaffolding Scaffold Considerations cont Time required for the job Experience of crew Weather Obstructions Building configuration
Erecting and Dismantling Frame Scaffolding Before assembling inspect the scaffolding for: Damage to frames, braces, and other structural components Damage to hooks on platforms Splits, knots, dry rot in planks De-lamination of veneer planks Compatibility of components
Erecting and Dismantling Frame Scaffolding Check support surfaces Mud and soft ground should be replaced with gravel or crushed rock Most indoor floors will support the load but be wary of old wooden floors
Erecting and Dismantling Frame Scaffolding Assembly Workers who will be assembling the scaffolding above 10ft require fall protection Install all fittings and accessories in accordance with the manufacturer s instructions. Always use base plates as they allow for minor adjustments to keep the scaffold plumb and level.
Erecting and Dismantling
Erecting and Dismantling
Erecting and Dismantling Tie-ins provide stability to frame scaffolding. Tie-ins should be applied at vertical intervals not greater than 3 times the least lateral dimension of the scaffold. Note the guardrails and the scaffold tie-in options on this typical system.
Erecting and Dismantling
Erecting and Dismantling Tie-ins provide stability to frame scaffolding. Tie-ins should be applied at vertical intervals not greater than 3 times the least lateral dimension of the scaffold. Note the guardrails and the scaffold tie-in options on this typical system.
Erecting and Dismantling Outrigging is also available for both tube and frame scaffolding. It can be used to: Provide additional stability Increase the height at which tie-ins need to begin Provide stability where tying-in isn t possible Dismantling follows the reverse procedure of assembly.
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding It is important that a skilled and experienced person assembles a tube scaffolding system. Follow the manufacturer s instructions.
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding
Tube and Clamp Scaffolding
Scaffold Usage Use 3-point contact to climb ladders Keep areas around top and bottom of ladders clear Rolling scaffolds should have brakes on all castors Never move a scaffold with workers on board In rare circumstances when scaffold guardrails cannot be used, fall arrest systems must be in place.
QUESTIONS?
Rescue Planning Do not overlook how a worker will be rescued if he/she falls. Workers who have had an arrested fall may not be conscious. May not be able to rescue themselves. May be difficult to bring them back to safety depending on the situation. Rescue Planning addresses these concerns.
Rescue Planning Before workers use a fall arrest system, the employer must develop a written rescue procedure. The worker involved in a fall must be retrieved as quickly and safely as possible. The worker will be suspended by fall arrest equipment and will not be able to recover to the work position.
Rescue Planning Establishes how a worker can be quickly and safely lowered. Plan may be simple, using a ladder or elevating work platform. May require the worker to be raised to an upper level or through an open window. Rescue is more complicated when the worker must be retrieved from a failed swingstage.
Rescue Planning A specially trained rescue unit may become involved, using ladder trucks or rappelling techniques. Plans should cover on-site equipment, personnel, and procedures for various rescues. If an off-site rescue team is required, they should be contacted for advance preparation.
Rescue Planning Site management must ensure that: Everyone is aware of the rescue plan; That equipment and resources are available; Designated personnel are properly trained.
FINAL QUESTIONS?
Information Sources 1. CSAO. (2002). Health and Safety Manual, 2002 Edition. Etobicoke, Ontario: Construction Safety Association of Ontario. 2. CSAO. (2003). Construction Health and Safety Manual, New Edition. Etobicoke, Ontario: Construction Safety Association of Ontario. 3. Sulowski, Andrew C. (2000). Fall-Arrest Systems Practical Essentials. Toronto, Ontario: CSA International.
Fall Protection Video
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