Working at height comes with numerous risks. Falls are a commonly understood danger when working at height, but they’re not the only one. Dropped objects pose a serious hazard too, and don’t require much height to be lethal: an object of less than three pounds can cause a fatal impact falling from a height of 30 feet.

Many injuries occur because of improperly secured tools and materials falling from a height. They can also occur due to environmental or working conditions, some of them unavoidable: corrosion from harsh conditions can loosen parts, while vibration and impacts can dislodge equipment. Both factors are commonplace in construction, mining, oil & gas, and other energy and power generation work.

Safety While Working Overhead

Overhead workers can help mitigate these risks by being attentive to where they set items while working and making sure the right safeguards are in place.

• Keep all tools and materials not being currently being used for work at least 3 feet from any leading edges.
• Secure all tools and materials with safety cables and tool lanyards to prevent them from falling.
• Do not keep items in pockets that aren’t zipped or securely closed. You may also want to consider holsters or sheaths with a safety line for any phones or walkie talkies.
• Use toeboards, screens, and guardrails on scaffolds or other overhead work spots to block objects from falling.
• Use debris nets or catch platforms to stop dropped objects from hitting workers on the ground.
• Regularly inspect all precautionary systems, including safety cables, boards, guardrails, and nets.

Safety on the Ground

Workers on the ground should always exercise caution not only when work is occurring overhead, but also when working beneath overhead fixtures and equipment in an environment prone to extreme weather conditions.

• Hard hats should always be worn when work is being performed overhead or there is a falling object risk.
• Establish safe working areas by sectioning off hazard areas below your work with barricades, as well as signage to alert anyone on the ground.
• Avoid working under or placing workers under other workers at heights, as well as under moving loads.
• Regularly inspect PPE prior to use.

Regardless of where you’re working on a jobsite, communication is key. Teams should share information, remain watchful, and be accountable to each other for following best safety practices.