Get Ready for National Safety Stand-Down

Using Ladders Safely_TLC magazineWhile Total Landscape Care covers a range of topics in our online and print safety articles, one area I like to make sure I write about regularly is fall prevention.

The reason is simple.

Although falls are one of the most preventable types of accidents, they’re also the number one cause of fatalities in construction; accounting for more than a third of all deaths in the industry.

Just in the last month two workers on separate New York City construction sites died from falls, one from a roof and the other from scaffolding while he was working alone.

The problem with falls isn’t a secret to anyone in the industry, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recognizes the need to step up and raise awareness.

Although OSHA is currently conducting their Fall Prevention Campaign, started in 2012 in partnership with NIOSH, the organization is ramping up coverage this summer with a dedicated National Safety Stand-Down, scheduled for June 2 through 6.

Specifically dedicated to fall prevention, the event will provide free education and training resources.

I often hear from small contractors who are looking for resources, materials and topics for their toolbox talks, so participating in an event like this is a good idea for a company looking for safety sources. OSHA is providing a not only the information on how to conduct a stand-down, but also offering a range of free downloadable materials for use during the event, including brochures, fact sheets, posters and wallet cards.

Also available is OSHA’s Fall Prevention Training Guide – A Lesson Plan for Employers, which includes toolbox talks, and a series of fall prevention videos. Via a website that will go live on June 2, employers will be able to provide feedback on the program and download Certificates of Participation.

Visit OSHA’s site for more information on how to participate.

Editor’s Note: Amy Materson is the Managing Editor for sister site Equipment World.

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