Workplace Safety: Elevation and Falling Objects

Historically, falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction, accounting for about one-third of all fatalities in the industry. OSHA standards for falls deals with both the human and equipment related issues in protecting workers from fall hazards.

Falling objects can also pose a hazard to workers

Example: Union laborer Michael Voss, 55, was working on a water main installation project, which involved insulating a 6,000-pound, 21-foot section of pipe suspended on a loader with tines (teeth or prongs to hold the pipe). After Voss finished insulating the pipe, the loader operator placed it back on the ground. The unsecured pipe rolled or slid down a slope, striking Voss and pinning him against the loader.

Voss sustained a fractured pelvis, left hip, and sacrum, necessitating physical therapy for approximately six months. The following year, he underwent arthroscopic surgery, labral debridement, and other procedures.

Citation: Voss v. Monroe Cnty. Water Auth., No. 7122/15 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. Monroe Cnty. Nov. 28, 2017).

You Have Rights

• Your employer must assess each working area for fall hazards
• Your employer must provide fall training and training in the use of fall safety equipment
• Your employer must provide fall safety equipment where applicable by law
• Your employer must provide protection from falling objects where applicable by law

If you have been injured on the job we provide a FREE case evaluation to determine if your employer has not provided the necessary safety precautions to protect you from the accident. We can also help you in your case against your employer’s Workers’ Compensation insurance company and attorneys. Call 888-685-7930 today or use the link below to forward to someone you know who has been injured in the workplace.