What it means
Fall protection comes in two kinds. The first stops the fall from happening: guardrails, covers over holes, and travel restraint. The second catches the worker: nets and personal fall arrest systems, which are a harness, a lanyard or lifeline, and an anchor.
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.501 covers fall protection in construction, including when it is required and where. Check the current rule and your own procedures. Other industries have their own rules.
The anchor is the point people forget. A harness is only as good as what it's tied to. Rescue matters too. A worker hanging in a harness needs to be reached fast, so the plan comes before the work.
Why it matters
Falls from height are among the most serious ways to get hurt on a jobsite. Gear that's worn out, hung wrong or tied to a bad anchor won't help. Inspection and a rescue plan are part of fall protection, not extras.
What it looks like on a site
- The crew looks at the work area for edges, holes and roof openings before the job starts.
- Harnesses and lanyards get inspected before use, and anything worn, cut or shock-loaded comes out of service.
- The anchor point is chosen and checked before anyone ties off.
- A rescue plan is in the pre-task plan, and the crew knows who does what.
- Workers who tie off have been trained on the gear they use.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check the current rule and your own procedures. Back to the glossary