What is fall protection in construction?

Fall protection in construction addresses the leading cause of construction deaths through engineering controls, safety equipment, and work practices. Requirements trigger at six feet in construction (ten feet for scaffolds) mandating employer action. Guardrail systems must withstand 200 pounds force with specific height and spacing requirements. Personal fall arrest systems require full body harnesses, lanyards, and anchorages supporting 5,000 pounds. Safety nets below work areas provide passive protection for workers and dropped objects. Warning line systems for roofing create controlled access zones with monitors. Covers over holes must support twice anticipated loads preventing breakthrough. Training ensures workers recognize hazards and properly use protection systems. Competent person designation requires knowledge to identify and correct fall hazards. Fall protection plans document site-specific methods for leading edge and residential work. Inspection protocols ensure equipment integrity before each use. Rescue planning addresses suspended worker retrieval within safe timeframes. Violations commonly include missing protection, improper use, and inadequate anchorages. Employer defenses claiming worker misconduct require proving training and enforcement. Understanding fall protection requirements helps establish liability when failures cause preventable falls from elevation.

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