2/6/23
Quick Tips #131.1
The intent of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act was to ensure worker and workplace safety by requiring employers to provide a place of employment free from recognized safety and health hazards. When first enacted in 1970, the OSH Act adopted established federal standards issued under other statues, including the Construction Safety Act. These standards were codified as Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations Part 1926 on December 30, 1971, and several fall protection regulations were adopted at that time:
Fall Protection Height Requirements
The height at which workers are required to be protected from falling varies depending upon the industry. In construction the height varies depending upon the nature of the work being performed:
Use these checklists to help identify potential issues with your construction fall protection plan, program, policies and procedures:
Sources
29 CFR 1926 Subpart L - Scaffolds
29 CFR 1926 Subpart M – Fall Protection
Related Articles
Quick Tips #385: After a Fall Event — Preventing Suspension Trauma
Quick Tips # 377: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms
Quick Tips #130: Fall Protection Equipment
Quick Tips #133: OSHA Scaffolding Requirements for Construction and General Industry
Q: What is a “competent person”?
A: The term "competent person" is used in many OSHA standards and documents. According to the 1926 construction standard, an OSHA "competent person" is defined as "one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them" [29 CFR 1926.32(f)]. By way of training and/or experience, a competent person is knowledgeable of applicable standards, is capable of identifying workplace hazards relating to the specific operation and has the authority to correct them.
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.
SIGN UP FOR EMAIL
Get more great content like this sent to your inbox.