If employees work four or more feet above a lower level, taking the right precautions could keep them safe from suffering injury or even death. In 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 615 fatalities from falls to a lower level. Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) will help prevent these falls, but they may also require serious planning and training. That’s why OSHA has specific regulations to address these precautions for fall protection in general industry facilities at 29 CFR 1910.28 and 1910.140.
Before allowing an employee to use PFAS, they should be trained on the limits of the PFAS, how to properly anchor, how to estimate free fall distance, how to identify conditions at the worksite that may impact the use of the PFAS, how to properly use one, and how to inspect and store it.
When teaching them how to properly anchor the PFAS, OSHA requires the anchorage point to be capable of supporting at least 5000 pounds for each employee attached. Employees should also be aware that they should not free fall more than six feet, and that PFAS must be worn with the attachment point of the body harness located in the center of the employee’s back near shoulder level. The tie-off attachment point to the lifeline or anchor must be located at or above the connection point of the harness (for example, above the employee’s head). If this isn’t done, additional free fall distance is added to fall.
No matter if you are an employer or an employee, fall protection should be taken seriously. Therefore the proper planning, selection, training, and inspection must be put in place. If you need someone to help train you and your employees on PFAS, feel free to contact us here at Safety Solutions and Supply and let one of our professionals help you. If you have any additional concerns, feel free to visit us online, check out our training services, or give us a call here at 866-537-2262.
Safety Solutions & Supply
314 E. Canal St. (State Road 60)
Mulberry, Florida 33860
Phone: 1-866-537-2262 (toll free)