A key step in the prevention of falling objects is how we secure and store materials on our projects—specifically at heights. We often see workers on unprotected sides and edges, focusing on their own personal fall protection but forget about securing the materials they are installing or are working from (such as ladders).
Consistent with all elements of worker safety, proper planning and documentation (Job Safety Analysis) of the task are essential to the prevention of falling objects. Thinking ahead and having a plan before working at heights is always the best approach; additionally, the following precautions should also be considered.
Material Storage/Handling Best Practices
· Comply with relevant OSHA standards (1926.250, 1926.252, 1926.759, 1926.501(c), 1926.451(h))
· Select storage areas carefully and avoid storing materials near floor and wall openings
· Materials shall not be placed within six (6’) feet of hoist ways or inside floor openings and not within ten (10’) feet of exterior walls that do not extend above the top of
the material stored
· Materials must be stable and secured if there is a potential for them to become dislodged from contact by equipment or personnel
· Inspect the material prior to moving it to determine if containers are damaged, banding has been removed or similar load securing devices are not present
· Transfer materials to an approved and rated container for safer handling if original containers are not suitable
· Do not hang or drape any items, such as tool bags or lunch boxes, on guardrails or posts
· Secure any loose material, such as roofing insulation, plywood, etc. to prevent it from being blown by the wind
· DO NOT throw any type of debris to a lower level. Use an enclosed trash chute to transfer debris from an upper level to a lower one
· Tether and/or lace together all perimeter materials, such as forming re-shores, etc., back to a strong building component to help prevent the material from falling to
lower levels
· Erect perimeter screening to prevent smaller materials from accidentally being kicked or blown and falling to a lower level
· When possible, position access ladders and stairways away from the perimeter of the building to reduce the likelihood of workers dropping tools and/or materials
· Proper housekeeping and keeping the job site clean can prevent trips at ground level, good housekeeping on exposed decks can also prevent dropped/displaced
objects
· Keep a clean work area, free of clutter and objects that have the potential to be kicked or dropped below
With some forethought and utilizing best practices, fallen objects due to improper storage/securing of materials can be an extremely rare occurrence. Until next time…Work Safe & Be Safe!