One hazard that often goes unnoticed is the risk of dropped objects. A dropped object refers to any item that falls from a higher level, posing a threat to life, causing injuries and damaging property as well as the environment. In Canada alone, over 20 thousand injuries occur annually due to falling objects, and this number may not account for unreported incidents.  

The Impact of Dropped Objects

Dropping tools and equipment not only compromises safety but also affects productivity. Retrieving fallen items consumes valuable time, and the financial burden of replacement and repairs can be significant. However, the most consequential concern is the potential loss of life. It is our responsibility as an organization to protect the well-being of our employees, contractors and the wider community.

Dropped Object Prevention

Working at heights demands heightened caution and adherence to safety protocols. To minimize the risks associated with dropped objects, here is a brief overview of our actions:

• Ensure employees receive comprehensive training that equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely and efficiently before engaging in work at heights.
• Identify potential objects or materials that could potentially fall and implement appropriate control measures to mitigate the associated risks.
• Demarcate hazardous areas using tapes and barricades to create vertical separation. This helps minimize the chances of objects falling from heights and causing harm.
• Foster a culture of communication and teamwork. Collaborate with fellow workers, and when necessary, place warning signs in and around hazardous work areas to increase awareness.
• Secure tools and equipment using tethers and containers (kuny bags) specifically designed for this purpose. Tools weighing more than two kilograms should never be secured to the body.
• Refrain from hanging objects over guardrails as they can easily dislodge, posing a severe risk to those below.
• Prioritize the secure fastening of all loads when transferring them to higher levels. Additionally, ensure slow lifting and swinging of the load to minimize the potential for incidents.
• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and inspect it before use. PPE plays a crucial role in safeguarding workers from potential hazards.
• Maintain a clean and tidy worksite by securely stacking materials to prevent sliding, falling or collapsing.

Preventing dropped object incidents requires a proactive approach and collective effort. The cost of workplace injuries and fatalities goes beyond monetary figures, making proper securing of materials and the use of fall prevention systems paramount when working at heights. By prioritizing safety, we can create a culture of vigilance and protect the well-being of everyone involved in our operations. At FWS, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our employees and invite potential employees who share our dedication to join our team. Together, we can create a workplace that prioritizes safety and prevents dropped object incidents.