OSHA Fall Protection Directive for Residential Construction - Deadline is Sept. 15

In 2010, more than 10,000 construction workers were injured as a result of falling while working from heights, and another 255 workers were killed. Earlier this year, OSHA extended the transition phase for enforcement of residential fall protection directive STD 03-11-002, but the new deadline is Sept. 15.

OSHA's website has a host of training materials and resources including posters and fact sheets in English and other languages that explain how falls from ladders, scaffolds and roofs can be prevented and lives can be saved. Here's OSHA's advice:

PLAN ahead to get the job done safely
Begin by deciding how the job will be done, what tasks will be involved, and what safety equipment may be needed to complete each task. Plan to have all the necessary equipment and tools available at the construction site.  

PROVIDE the right equipment
Workers who are six feet or more above lower levels are at risk for serious injury or death if they should fall. To protect these workers, employers must provide fall protection and the right equipment for the job, including the right kinds of ladders, scaffolds and safety gear. Make sure gear fits, and regularly inspect all fall protection equipment to ensure it's still in good condition and safe to use.

TRAIN everyone to use the equipment safely
Falls can be prevented when workers understand proper set-up and safe use of equipment, so they need training on the specific equipment they will use to complete the job. Employers must train workers in hazard recognition and in the care and safe use of ladders, scaffolds, fall protection systems and other equipment they'll use on the job.

• Visit the OSHA Fall Prevention Campaign home page.
• Review educational materials and resources.
• View NIOSH fall prevention materials.
• Browse Ladder Safety signs or Fall Protection PPE signs at ComplianceSigns.com