Emphasizing Fall Prevention In Construction

In honour of Fall Prevention Month, we want to shed light on the critical aspects of fall prevention in the construction industry and reaffirm our dedication to safeguarding our employees. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS), fall accidents account for over 42,000 worker injuries annually, representing about 17 per cent of lost-time injuries across Canada. This number underscores the need for the adoption of robust fall prevention practices within our industry.

Furthermore, the CCOHS reports that 66 per cent of these falls occur on the same level, arising from slips and trips. Slips occur due to a lack of friction between footwear and walking surfaces, whereas trips result from unforeseen collisions with objects, leading to balance loss. In light of these figures, we are reminded of the importance of implementing fall prevention measures across our operations.

Fall Prevention Principles & Standards

We incorporate fall prevention strategies in every facet of our operations. Distinguishing between fall prevention and fall arrest is vital—while fall prevention averts tumbles, fall arrest mitigates the impact on lower surfaces, reducing the risk of injury. We adhere to the principle that the maximum allowable elevation without fall prevention is six feet. For heights between six and 16 feet, stringent fall prevention methods are mandatory. Beyond 16 feet, if other preventive measures are not feasible, we consider implementing fall arrest systems.

However, it is worth noting that fall arrest systems are not effective for elevations less than 16 feet, which underscores the importance of alternative preventive measures. Our commitment extends to comprehensive planning, where we identify tasks involving fall hazards greater than 10 feet and develop site-specific fall prevention plans accordingly. For tasks with hazards exceeding 16 feet, we implement task-specific, personal fall arrest plans.

While ladders might seem like a convenient solution for elevated tasks, we acknowledge that they shouldn’t be the default option. If ladder use is inevitable, proper precautions are taken to ensure stability, and workers must maintain three-point contact during ascent and descent. When work requires elevation, we prioritize the use of scaffolds or other secure working platforms to guarantee the safety of our workers.

Safety Tips For A Secure Environment

Safety is not just a guideline – it is a culture we uphold. Our commitment extends to fostering a clean and organized workspace. These are some practical safety tips that we encourage all our employees to adhere to:

• Keep walkways and hallways clear of debris, clutter and obstacles, and promptly clean up spills.
• Follow all safe work procedures and practices specific to your job.
• Report all instances of slips, trips and falls to your supervisor.

As we commemorate Fall Prevention Month and reinforce our dedication to fall prevention, we invite passionate individuals who share our commitment to safety and excellence to consider a career with us. At FWS, you will find an environment that values your skills, fosters professional growth and prioritizes your safety every step of the way. Explore the opportunities that await you at FWS and be a part of a workforce that ensures your safety and your colleagues.