Standing Down To Prevent Falls

On May 7, Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling joined more than 1,800 construction workers, employers, and other stakeholders at the National Institutes of Health work site in Bethesda, Maryland, for OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls.

Similar stand-downs were held at worksites across the country. During these events, employers pause normal work activities and lead employees in toolbox talks or other activities such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, or discussing job specific hazards. Falls from heights continue to be the leading cause of fatal injuries in construction.

“The fact is, workers and employers should be tackling fall hazards every day – not just once a year,” said Deputy Secretary Sonderling. “Besides stand-downs, employers can educate workers on fall hazards through robust safety and health programs, regular safety meetings and making sure critical measures like harness checks are part of routine operations.”