Falls from heights and dropped objects can have dangerous consequences for both workers and companies. Awareness of the dangers associated with working at heights is the first step in helping prevent injuries from falls and dropped objects.
Annual Canadian fall protection occupational injuries or fatalities facts*
Falls
- 8,596+
injuries from falls - 43+
fatalities from falls
Dropped Objects
- 8,881+
injuries from being struck by dropped objects - 21+
fatalities from being struck by dropped objects
Fall-related injury or fatality costs per claim*
Falls from roofs
$119,000
Falls from height
$66,000
Falls from ladders
$82,000
Falls from height
$48,000
Top ten reasons why objects get dropped when working at heights
1. Inadequate risk assessment
Failure to identify dropped object hazard.
2. Human factors
Operator error, poor behaviour, complacency, neglect.
3. Inadequately stored or secured tools and equipment
No tool lanyards or tethers being used. No containment of loose items.
4. Inadequate procedures
Bad planning, no management of changing workplace hazards.
5. Failed fixtures and fittings
Corrosion, vibration, poor design, selection or improper installation.
6. Poor housekeeping
Pre-existing hazards from previous tasks.
7. Collisions and snagging
Lifting, travelling equipment, tag lines, service loops.
8. Inadequate inspection, repair and maintenance
Ignoring unsafe conditions.
9. Redundant, neglected and home-made tools and equipment
These should be eliminated.
10. Environmental factors
Wind, sea motion, ice, snow, extreme conditions.
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