A dropped object is defined as ‘any object that falls from its previous position.’  This seems like a simple concept, but a dropped object can be anything from a tiny bolt, to a complete piece of structure like the boom of a crane. Everything and anything on a construction site can become a dropped object if it’s not secured when working at heights.

Why this is important?

Most of us know that for decades people falling from heights has been the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry and since increasing the focus on falls, we have seen a tremendous improvement in the use of fall protection and prevention on our jobsites. What most people don’t know is ‘struck-by’ incidents are the second leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, with the largest percentage related to dropped objects. We have seen some improvement in our ability to prevent dropped objects, but we still have a long way to go.

The Campaign

In alliance with OSHA and the AGC (Association of General Contractors) of Colorado, the Stop the Drop Taskforce is launching our ‘Stop the Drop’ campaign. We know that a wide range of objects can be dropped on our construction projects and recognize there are multiple ways that we can protect people from being injured. We believe that most dropped objects can be eliminated by implementing one of our four Stop the Drop guiding principles.

Over the course of the week, we are going to use toolbox talks to discuss when, where and how each of the principles should be implemented on a construction site.

The 4 Stop the Drop Principles include:

  1. Tool Tethering
  2. Barricading
  3. Material Securement
  4. Safe Cargo

We will discuss when tool tethering is required, the different means of tethering tools and what proper tethering looks like.

When there are areas above where we cannot secure materials or equipment, we need to ensure that we keep people away from hazardous areas. We’ll discuss different barricading methods and when they should be used.

This principle focuses on material and equipment storage, and the storage of material and equipment at heights.

This focuses on the safe practices for transportation and movement of materials and equipment at heights.

These principles are most effective when properly implemented. Take the time to review all of the toolbox talks presented this week at your companies and on your jobsites. We need your help in implementing these principles every day to ensure that we Stop the Drop!

Until next time…Work Safe & Be Safe!

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