Chapter 45

Fall Protection
Chapter Outline
1 Overview 2
1.1 Hazards / Impacts 2
2 Scope 2
3 Implementation 3
4 Requirements 3
4.1 General 3
4.1.1 Authorization 3
4.1.2 Preferred Controls 3
4.1.3 Authorized Persons 4
4.1.4 Competent and Qualified Persons and Engineers 4
4.2 Procedures and Specific Requirements 5
4.2.1 Accessing Unprotected Elevated Work Locations 5
4.2.2 Use of Fall Protection Equipment 6
4.2.3 Rescue Plan 8
4.2.4 Equipment Inspection, Marking, and Storage 8
4.2.5 Overhead Work 9
4.3 Training 9
4.3.1 Authorized Person 9
4.3.2 Competent or Qualified Person or Engineer 10
5 Definitions 10
6 References 12
6.1 Program Documents 12
6.2 Standards 13
6.3 Related Documents 13
7 Document Information 14

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SLAC Environment, Safety, and Health Manual Chapter 45: Fall Protection

1 Overview
Unprotected falls from elevation usually result in serious debilitating injury or death. Falls can be prevented
through the use of proper prevention and arrest systems. All work from elevated work surfaces will be
accomplished without any risk of falling to a lower level. This goal is achieved by adhering to the
following fall protection hierarchy:
1. Remove the hazard: avoid working at heights. Bring the work down to the ground level whenever
possible.
2. If work at heights is unavoidable, secure the elevated work area with a passive fall prevention barrier
system, such as guardrails.
3. When a barrier system is not feasible because of the physical characteristics of the work environment
or the infrequency of access, use an approved fall restraint system.
4. If no other option is feasible, a properly engineered and approved fall arrest system can be used in
conjunction with a rescue plan.

1.1 Hazards / Impacts

Falls and subsequent injury may occur because of
 Lack of fixed, guarded, work platforms
 Inadequate lighting or space to conduct tasks
 Difficult access because of the proximity of other equipment
 Lack of a solid base for portable ladders
 Carrying tools and equipment to elevated locations
 Inadequate training
 Improper use of fall protection equipment

2 Scope
The fall protection program and its requirements apply to all personnel who access unprotected elevated
work areas
 Fall protection relating to scaffold erection, articulating boom type aerial lifts, scissors lifts,
excavations, motor vehicles, or personnel hoists is not addressed in this chapter.
 This chapter does not apply to work performed from ladders when used properly according to SLAC
training and manufacturer’s instructions (see Chapter 15, “Ladder Safety”). If ladders are used
properly, additional fall protection measures are generally not necessary.

The requirements of this chapter address many situations at SLAC where personnel work at elevated
locations, including

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 Climbing onto or working from unprotected elevated work locations such as the top of tanks,
transformers, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, and cranes
 Accessing roof-mounted equipment such as beam shut-off ion chambers (BSOICs), air abatement
equipment, and HVAC units
 Repairing leaks on rooftops
 Pulling in hoisted equipment at elevated levels
 Installing or repairing elevated plumbing lines, electrical conduit, lighting fixtures, and exhaust
ductwork

3 Implementation
The requirements of this chapter are effective upon publication unless otherwise noted here.

4 Requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Authorization

Work in unprotected elevated areas requires identification of hazards and controls, documented in either an
established procedure or an elevated surface work plan (ESWP), generated and/or approved by a competent
person (see Section 4.2.1.2).

Note Authorization through a procedure or ESWP must be noted in the employee’s activity and training
authorization documents, which must reflect any fall hazard, regardless of how the work is
authorized.

4.1.2 Preferred Controls

Administrative controls (such as fall protection harnesses, lanyards, and anchorage points) will be the last
solutions considered to protect persons from falling from heights. The following engineered controls will
be used to provide effective fall prevention:
 Roofs. Engineered guardrails designed in accordance with applicable standards or 42-inch height
minimum parapets are required at roof edges when frequent access is required (more than four times
per year).
 Other elevated work surfaces. Engineered guardrails designed in accordance with applicable
standards are required on elevated fixed platforms, mezzanines, catwalks, and balconies when frequent
access is required (more than 12 times per year).

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For infrequent access at these locations or if guardrails are infeasible, fall protection equipment may be
used in conjunction with an ESWP (and rescue plan if fall arrest systems are used).

For construction-related activities exposing employees to unprotected heights over six feet, acceptable
means to reduce fall hazards include
 Bringing the work down to ground level
 Using ladders properly, according to manufacturers’ instructions and applicable regulations
 Scaffolding
 Using elevating work platforms and aerial devices
 Using fall restraint, work positioning, and fall arrest systems only if other methods are infeasible

4.1.3 Authorized Persons

Authorized persons are those who have completed required training and are authorized to wear and use fall
protection equipment. They have the following responsibilities:
 Observing fall protection rules while working at elevations
 Properly wearing fall arrest or restraint equipment while working at unprotected elevations
 Developing an elevated surface work plan (ESWP) before accessing unprotected heights
 Tying off only to rated, approved anchorage points
 Reporting to supervisor any frequently-accessed work platforms, including roofs, that are not
protected by guardrails or a cable system

4.1.4 Competent and Qualified Persons and Engineers

Competent and qualified persons and engineers are designated by their line management in consultation
with the program manager, using the Fall Protection: Competent and Qualified Person Designation Form
(pdf or Word). The program manager maintains the Fall Protection: Designated Fall Protection Competent
and Qualified Person List.

4.1.4.1 Competent Persons

Competent persons are determined by training, knowledge, and experience with personnel performing work
at heights. They have the following responsibilities and authorities:
 Training authorized persons in recognizing fall hazards, safe use of equipment, and pre-use inspections
 Performing required fall protection equipment inspections
 Approving elevated work surface plans
 Implementing approved fall protection plans

4.1.4.2 Qualified Persons

Qualified persons are determined by training, knowledge, and experience with personnel performing work
at heights. A qualified person, in addition to training, knowledge, and experience, is designated by line
management in consultation with the program manager.

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Qualified persons approve fall protection plans.

4.1.4.3 Qualified Engineers

Qualified engineers are structural or civil engineers who have completed additional training as determined
by the program manager. They are designated by line management in consultation with the program
manager.

Qualified engineers design and supervise the installation and designation of fall protection anchorages and
systems and, if needed, may perform the required fall protection equipment and anchorages inspections.

4.2 Procedures and Specific Requirements

4.2.1 Accessing Unprotected Elevated Work Locations

Before accessing an unprotected elevated work area, either

1. An established procedure must be in place and the affected personnel trained in it or
2. An elevated surface work plan (ESWP) must be developed and/or approved by a competent person,
who will ensure the affected personnel understand all of its requirements

4.2.1.1 Established Procedure

A well developed and approved procedure that makes use of permanently installed fall protection
equipment is an acceptable work authorization, precluding the need for individual work authorization. Such
procedures must be developed by a competent person.

Line management is responsible for ensuring that everyone who uses the fall protection system has been
trained on the proper use of and access to that system. Line management is also responsible for developing,
documenting, and ensuring the effectiveness of this controlled access.

4.2.1.2 Elevated Surface Work Plan

An ESWP must be developed and/or approved by a competent person, then approved by the safety
coordinator and building/area/facility manager or designee, along with the associated work activities. This
ESWP will address associated fall hazards and provide a rescue plan as required. (See Fall Protection:
Elevated Surface Work Plan Form (pdf or Word)

4.2.1.3 Fall Protection Plan

When the use of conventional fall protection (guardrails, fall restraint or arrest equipment, safety nets) is
impractical or creates a greater hazard during construction activities, a fall protection plan (FPP) may be
developed. The FPP must be written by a competent person, who must be approved by a SLAC qualified
person. FPPs must also be approved by the program manager or designee. A FPP may not be applied to
general industry work. (See Fall Protection: Fall Protection Plan Requirements.)

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4.2.1.4 Transit from Ladders

Until barriers or other effective methods of fall protection can be installed, transit to and from ladders at
roof edges will be permitted when all of the following conditions exist:
 The roof being accessed is a low-slope roof.
 There are no current adverse environmental conditions affecting ability to see or move safely over the
roof (such as high wind, extreme heat or sun glare, heavy rain).
 Safe ladder usage
– A fixed ladder is used that has proper grab rails over the roof edge or parapet, conforms to
regulations, has been inspected and labeled by a competent person, and is deemed safe for
climbing , or
– A portable straight ladder is used that has been set up on a stable base, is properly secured to
prevent movement, and extends at least three feet above the roof landing surface.
 Immediately upon reaching the roof, the person immediately walks away from the edge to the location
on the roof where the work is to be done.
 Neither the location of the work nor the work itself will require the person to approach within six feet
of the roof edge at any time except when accessing the ladder.
 To descend, the person approaches the ladder at an angle perpendicular to the roof edge to maximize
distance from the edge during access.

4.2.1.5 Non-conforming Fixed Ladders

Pre-engineered fall arrest equipment (such as an approved ladder climbing system or self-retracting lifeline)
must be used on fixed ladders over 20 feet in height that do not have required landing platforms and
compliant cages. Such fall arrest equipment must be installed under the supervision of a competent person.

4.2.2 Use of Fall Protection Equipment

When an elevated work location cannot be accessed safely from a ladder or protected work platform or
when the installation of guardrails is infeasible, fall restraint or fall arrest systems may be used. A project-
specific ESWP will be developed and a designated SLAC competent person will make the appropriate
equipment selection based on a complete evaluation of the work site, conditions, and nature of work to be
done (see Section 4.2.1.2, “Elevated Surface Work Plan”).

Personnel using fall restraint or fall arrest equipment will work in teams of two or more (two-person rule).

Personnel will use harnesses, self-retracting lifelines, lanyards, I-beam straps, and so on only as permitted
by the equipment manufacturer and in accordance with published instructions unless authorized by a
designated SLAC competent person.

4.2.2.1 Fall Restraint Systems

Fall restraint systems consisting of the following minimum components may be used to prevent free fall:
 Rated anchorage point with a capacity at least four times the intended load or 800 pounds, whichever is
greater

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 Lanyard (length must be limited to prevent access to edges where fall could occur)
 Connecting hardware (double-locking snaphooks, carabiners, D-rings)
 Full body harness

4.2.2.2 Fall Arrest Systems

Minimum fall arrest system components are

 Rated anchorage point of at least 5,000 pounds
 Lanyard that is shock absorbing or self-retracting
 Connecting hardware (double-locking snap hooks, carabineers, D-rings)
 Full body harness (body belt strictly prohibited)

Fall Distance Calculation

When using a fall arrest system, the fall distance calculation must account for the length of lanyard,
connecting hardware, deceleration distance, deployment of shock absorbers, the height of the person
wearing the equipment (or the height of the D-ring attached to the back of the harness), one foot of slack in
the harness, the position of the anchorage point, lanyard or rope elongation, and a safety factor.

A competent person must perform the fall distance calculation, or at a minimum verify that it was
performed properly if calculated by someone else.

Depending on the above variables, the minimum height required for a fall arrest system to be effective in
preventing contact with a lower level may be as much as 18 feet. Fall arrest systems should not be used at
heights with less than 18 feet clearance to a lower level unless it can be proven by a competent person that
the person will not contact the lower level in a fall. Where vertical clearance is inadequate, another way to
gain access to the elevated work location must be found (for example, scissors lift or ladder).

The area below and to the sides of the individual must be free of obstructions that could cause injury during
a fall. Fall arrest systems must be rigged so that a person cannot free fall for more than four feet or so that
the arresting forces on the body do not exceed 1,800 pounds.

Fall arrest systems should not be used to protect personnel working near vertical drop-offs such as roof
edges and hoist areas due to the potential for a swing impact injury, and the difficulty of rescue. Instead,
fall restraint systems should be used in these situations.

A rescue plan (as part of the ESWP) must be in place if a person will not be able to self-rescue (see Section
4.2.3, “Rescue Plan”).

Before beginning a job involving fall arrest equipment and as part of the work authorization process,
personnel will contact a fall protection competent person for assistance. Included in this process is the
notification of the local building/area/facility manager for release to perform this work. (See the Fall
Protection: Designated Fall Protection Competent and Qualified Person List.)

4.2.2.3 Self-retracting Lifelines

Self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) should be installed directly above the user’s head, or at shoulder height
directly adjacent to the work area at a minimum. Extreme care should be taken to ensure the person will not

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be exposed to a swing hazard, strike objects below, or exceed the maximum permissible free fall distance
or arresting forces on the body after a fall involving an SRL (such as may be the case if the SRL is mounted
below shoulder level). A designated SLAC competent person must inspect and approve of all SRL
installations prior to use.

Exceptions to installing an SRL at or above shoulder level near the work zone will be approved by a
competent person when no other fall protection option is feasible, and when the installation complies with
applicable regulations and manufacturers’ requirements addressing free-fall distance, arresting forces on
the body, and swing fall hazards.

4.2.2.4 Anchorage Points

Rated and approved anchorage points will be easily distinguishable from other structural features so that
personnel may readily identify them. One method is to mark them with bright yellow or orange fluorescent
paint, or identify them with weatherproof labels or tags. Only anchorage points that have been approved by
a designated SLAC qualified person, or that are known to hold at least 5,000 pounds (such as structural I-
beams or properly-installed pre-manufactured points) will be used for fall protection purposes.

Under no circumstances will personnel tie-off to piping, unistrut, racks, bracing, ventilation fan housings,
or any other non-approved locations. Unless permanent, fixed guardrails are specifically engineered and
marked as approved anchorage points by a qualified person, they will not be used as anchorages.

4.2.2.5 Design of Fall Protection Systems

Only SLAC-designated qualified engineers may engineer and design fall protection systems such as
anchorage points, horizontal lifeline systems, or safety nets. If commercially available systems are pre-
engineered and certified to provide fall protection and comply with regulatory requirements, they may be
installed and used under the direction of a competent person and do not require a separate design by a
SLAC qualified engineer.

4.2.3 Rescue Plan

When fall arrest systems are in use, a competent person will develop an effective rescue plan specific to the
work location and job being performed before work starts. Although not required to be in writing according
to applicable Cal/OSHA regulations, all SLAC fall protection rescue plans will be documented in the
ESWP according to Section 4.2.1.2. A written plan, prepared in advance, facilitates the training of rescue
personnel by increasing their familiarity with specific areas difficult to access.

Alternatively, the competent person may ensure personnel are trained on and capable of self-rescue to a
safe location.

4.2.4 Equipment Inspection, Marking, and Storage

4.2.4.1 Inspections

Before each use, the user will inspect harnesses, lanyards, self-retracting lifelines, and connecting hardware
for wear, damage, contamination, and other deterioration according to manufacturer’s instructions and
checklists. Equipment not meeting inspection criteria will immediately be tagged DANGER – OUT OF
SERVICE and will not be used.

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Twice annually, a competent person will inspect personal fall protection systems according to
manufacturers’ instructions and checklists. Such systems may include fixed, installed fall protection
systems such as self-retracting reels, anchorages, lifelines, or personal systems such as harnesses,
connectors, and lanyards. Ensuring the completion of inspections and required documentation is the
responsibility of line management.

Line management must designate a competent person as custodian of inspection records. The competent
person will retain documentation of the semi-annual inspection for three years. Documentation will include
the name of the inspector, the date equipment was inspected, and the results of the inspection. The
documentation will be made available upon request. The equipment itself will also be labeled with proof of
inspection.

Any equipment exposed to in-use loading or potential damage will be sent back be to the manufacturer for
complete inspection, rebuild if necessary, and recertification before being used again.

4.2.4.2 Marking

All fall protection system components will be labeled by the manufacturer according to
ANSI/ASSE Z359.1-2007 or ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004. Only designated SLAC competent persons are
authorized to mark harnesses and lanyards with other information (such as name or department) to ensure
proper ink is used to prevent material deterioration

4.2.4.3 Storage

Fall protection system components will be stored away from corrosive materials, oils and solvents,
moisture, heat, or any other substance that may cause damage. Harnesses, straps, and lanyards will be hung
by the D-ring or other connecting means to keep straps in a natural and untangled position when not in use.

4.2.5 Overhead Work

If work is being done in a location overhead where others may be working or walking below, access to that
lower area must be restricted if any items could be dropped or fall from the higher work level. This can be
accomplished through the use of barricade tape, signs, and rigid barriers. Signs and barricades will be
removed when work is completed.

Tools and materials being used over an occupied area must be secured (tethered) to the structure or person
if they might be dropped to the lower level. Toe boards must be provided on working platforms and
scaffolds over six feet in height.

4.3 Training
All personnel who work at elevations must meet the definition of (see Section 3, “Definitions”), including
meeting the training requirements below.

4.3.1 Authorized Person

Only designated, authorized personnel may participate in fall protection activities.

 ESH Course 200, Fall Protection Authorized Person (ESH Course 200)

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This course is suitable for personnel who must wear and use fall protection equipment or must access
unprotected elevated work surfaces as part of their jobs. This course is required initially and every three
years thereafter.

4.3.2 Competent or Qualified Person or Engineer

 ESH Course 202, Fall Protection Competent Person (ESH Course 202)
 ESH Course 201, Fall Protection Qualified Person (ESH Course 201)

Competent and qualified person training are offered through private firms that specialize in fall protection
engineering and applications. The program manager will assist in recommending training courses.

Within each directorate, supervisors must document the names of individuals who meet the minimum
requirements necessary to be considered competent or qualified persons. The Fall Protection: Competent
and Qualified Person Designation Form (pdf or Word) is used for this. The supervisor and individual being
designated sign the form, which is kept in the individual’s personnel file in Human Resources and by the
supervisor for the duration of employment, and the person is then included in the Fall Protection:
Designated Fall Protection Competent and Qualified Person List.

5 Definitions
Anchorage point. A secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards, or deceleration devices

Authorized person. See person, authorized

Competent person. See person, competent

Construction work. See work, construction

Controlled access zone (CAZ). An area in which certain work may take place without the use of guardrails,
personal fall arrest systems, or safety nets and access to the zone is controlled

Elevated surface work plan (ESWP). See plan, elevated surface work

Elevated work platform or area, unprotected. Any elevated work surface, including roofs, not surrounded
by a passive fixed barrier such as conforming guardrails or protective parapet

Elevated work surface, construction activities. Roof surfaces within six feet of edge and work platforms
more than six feet above a lower level

Elevated work surface, general industry work. Roof surfaces within six feet of edge and work platforms
more than four feet above a lower level

Engineer, qualified. A qualified person who is in addition licensed in accordance with federal, state, or
local laws and regulations (see person, qualified)

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Fall arrest system. A system used to arrest a person in a fall from a working level and that minimizes the
potential for compounding injury. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness and may
include a lanyard, deceleration device, or lifeline.

Fall protection plan (FPP). See plan, fall protection

Fall restraint system. An approved device and any necessary components that function together to restrain
an employee in such a manner as to prevent that employee from falling to a lower level. When standard
guardrails are selected, compliance with applicable sections governing their construction and use shall
constitute approval. Not a fall arrest system.

Free fall. The portion of a fall before a personal fall arrest system begins to apply force to arrest the fall

Frequent access, any other elevated work platforms or areas that are not roofs. More than 12 times per
year

Frequent access, roofs. More than four times per year

General industry work. See work, general industry

Lifeline system, horizontal. An engineered rail, rope, wire, or synthetic cable installed horizontally and used
for attachment of a worker’s lanyard or lifeline device while moving horizontally

Parapet, protective. A parapet surrounding the edge of a roof at least 24 inches high for roofing work, and
at least 42 inches for all other construction and general industry work

Person, authorized. A person at SLAC who has completed required training and is authorized to wear and
use fall protection equipment

Person, competent. One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings,
or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has
authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. 1 A designated SLAC fall protection
competent person has completed required training and has appropriate experience.

Person, qualified. One who by reason of training, experience, or instruction has demonstrated the ability to
safely perform all assigned duties relating to work at or on elevated surfaces, unprotected or protected (see
engineer, qualified)

Plan, elevated surface work (ESWP). A document which examines and addresses fall hazards associated
with a particular job on an unprotected elevated work platform or area. Incorporates elements of a rescue
plan if fall arrest systems are in use.

Plan, fall protection (FPP). A written document that describes the job task and procedures to eliminate or
control elevated fall hazards foreseeably encountered in the work when conventional fall protection
measures (guardrails, fall arrest equipment) are not feasible

1 Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Division 1, “Department of Industrial Relations”, Chapter 4,

“Division of Industrial Safety”, Subchapter 4, “Construction Safety Orders”, Article 2, “Definitions”,
Section 1504, “Definitions” (8 CCR 1504)

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Plan, rescue. A strategy or procedure, planned in advance and practiced by designated rescue personnel, to
retrieve safely a person who has fallen from an elevated work surface and who remains suspended in a full
body harness, unable to perform self-rescue

Qualified person. See person, qualified

Rescue plan. See plan, rescue

Roof. A walking or working surface whose primary function is to provide weather protection on a building,
C-train, modular trailer, rigid canopy, switch gear, transformer

Roof, low slope. A roof with a maximum slope of four vertical to 12 horizontal

Roofing work. See work, roofing

Suspension trauma. The rapid onset of adverse physical symptoms to a person hanging in a full body
harness (after approximately 15 minutes) such as light-headedness, palpitations, tremulousness, fatigue,
nausea, dizziness, headache, sweating, weakness, loss of consciousness and even death, caused by venous
pooling and oxygen deprivation to the brain, kidneys, and other organs.

Transit from a ladder. The action of a person climbing off of or onto a ladder, usually at the edge of a roof

Two-person rule. Rule that people must work in teams of two in defined situations

Work, construction. Any activity involving the construction, alteration, painting, repairing, construction
maintenance, renovation, removal, or wrecking of any fixed structure or its parts. This includes roofing
work

Work, general industry. Activities such as equipment maintenance, calibrations, inspections, plumbing
repair, running electrical cabling. Does not include construction activities.

Work, on roofs (either construction or maintenance/general industry related). Any work done on a roof
that is unrelated to the roof surface itself, such as HVAC maintenance, equipment calibrations, new
equipment installation. Does not include roofing work.

Work, roofing. Activities involving the application or removal of roofing materials such as asphalt or coal-
tar pitch, sheet metal, wood shakes, clay tile, concrete tile, slate or like materials. Roofing work includes
patching and repairing.

6 References
6.1 Program Documents
 Fall Protection: Designated Fall Protection Competent and Qualified Person List
 Fall Protection: Competent and Qualified Person Designation Form (SLAC-I-730-0A21R-002), pdf or
Word

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 Fall Protection: Elevated Surface Work Plan Form (SLAC-I-730-0A21R-003), pdf or Word
 Fall Protection: Fall Protection Plan Requirements (SLAC-I-730-0A21M-001)

6.2 Standards
SLAC adheres to the following Cal/OSHA fall protection regulations, except where specifically noted in
the text.
 Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Division 1, “Department of Industrial Relations”, Chapter 4,
“Division of Industrial Safety”, Subchapter 4, “Construction Safety Orders”, Article 24, “Fall
Protection” (8 CCR 1669–1671.2)
 Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Division 1, “Department of Industrial Relations”, Chapter 4,
“Division of Industrial Safety”, Subchapter 7, “General Industry Safety Orders”, Group 1, “General
Physical Conditions and Structures”, Article 2, “Standard Specifications”
– Section 3209, “Standard Guardrails” (8 CCR 3209)
– Section 3210, “Guardrails at Elevated Locations” (8 CCR 3210)
– Section 3212, “Floor Openings, Floor Holes and Roofs” (8 CCR 3212)
 Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Division 1, “Department of Industrial Relations”, Chapter 4,
“Division of Industrial Safety”, Subchapter 7, “General Industry Safety Orders”, Group 1, “General
Physical Conditions and Structures”, Article 4, “Access, Work Space, and Work Areas” (8 CCR 3270–
3280)
 The following industry-accepted consensus standards:
– American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE)
Z359.1-2007, “Safety Requirements for Personal Fall Arrest Systems, Subsystems and
Components” (ANSI/ASSE Z359.1-2007)
– American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE)
A10.32-2004, “Fall Protection Systems for Construction and Demolition Operations”
(ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004)
– American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE)
Z359.0-2007, “Definitions and Nomenclature Used for Fall Protection and Fall Arrest”
(ANSI/ASSE Z359.0-2007)

6.3 Related Documents

SLAC Environment, Safety, and Health Manual (SLAC-I-720-0A29Z-001)
 Chapter 2, “Work Planning and Control”
 Chapter 15, “Ladder Safety”

Other
 Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations, “Labor”, Part 1926, “Safety and Health Regulations for
Construction”, Subpart M, “Fall Protection”, Appendix E, “Sample Fall Protection Plan - Non-
Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with 1926.502(k)” (29 CFR Subpart M App E)

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 Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Division 1, “Department of Industrial Relations”, Chapter 4,

“Division of Industrial Safety”, Subchapter 4, “Construction Safety Orders”, Article 2, “Definitions”,
Section 1504, “Definitions” (8 CCR 1504)

7 Document Information
Title: Fall Protection
URL: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch45.pdf
Revision Record: https://www-internal.slac.stanford.edu/esh/docreview/reports/revisions.asp?ProductID=8
Department: Field Safety and Building Inspection Office
Program: Fall Protection
Date Effective: 5 March 2010

45-14 SLAC-I-720-0A29Z-001-R023.3 5 Oct 2005 (updated 5 Mar 2010)

Fall Protection: Competent and Qualified Person
Designation Form
Department: Chemical and General Safety
Program: Fall Protection
Owner: Program Manager
Authority: ES&H Manual, Chapter 45, Fall Protection1
Candidate Name

Supervisor Name

Directorate / Department

Type (select one) Competent Person Qualified Person

Experience
(include dates)

Education and Training

(include dates)

Professional Certifications
(if applicable)

Person Making This

Designation (name)
Signature

Designee Acceptance of
Designation (signature)
Date

1 SLAC Environment, Safety, and Health Manual (SLAC-I-720-0A29Z-001), Chapter 45, “Fall
Protection”, http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/hazardous_activities/fall_protection/policies.htm

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 Chapter 45: Fall Protection

Elevated Surface Work Plan Form

ENVIRONMENT, SAFETY & HEALTH DIVISION Product ID: 117 | Revision ID: 1222 | Date Published: 13 October 2010 | Date Effective: 13 October 2010
URL: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/references/fallFormESWP.pdf

Instructions
An approved elevated surface work plan (ESWP) is required before any worker accesses an unprotected elevated work platform or
area. (An unprotected elevated work platform or area is any elevated work surface, including a roof, that is not surrounded by a fixed
barrier such as conforming guardrails or protective parapet or where a portable guardrail system cannot be used.)
1. Complete Section 1, and if fall arrest is needed complete Section 2, Fall Arrest Requirements.
2. Include a work plan drawing (Section 3).
3. Obtain approvals before work begins (Section 4).

The plan can be completed by a fall protection authorized person or fall protection competent person.

No ESWP is required for the following, but requirements apply as noted:

 If a ladder or mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) can be used to both access the work area and complete the work safely, no
ESWP is required. In such cases follow requirements in Environment, Safety and Health Manual, Chapter 15, “Ladder Safety” or
Chapter 47, “Mobile Elevating Work Platforms”, as applicable.
 If accessing a low-slope roof with a maximum pitch of 4 vertical to 12 horizontal no ESWP is required if the worker stays at least
six feet from the unprotected roof edge at all times (except when using a ladder or mobile elevating work platform to gain access).
If any work will be conducted within six feet of an unprotected roof edge, an ESWP must be developed.

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SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Environment, Safety & Health Division
Chapter 45 | Elevated Surface Work Plan Form

1. Elevated Surface Work Plan

Project name: Begin date: End date:
Location (bldg, floor, grid):
Description:

Requirements Answer / Solution / Description

List authorized workers Authorized worker name
Important: two authorized workers must 1.
be present whenever fall restraint or fall
arrest equipment is to be used. 2.
Note: Even when no such equipment is used, 3.
the two-person rule is recommended for any
work described in this plan. 4.
5.
How high is the work surface and how will
access be gained?

How will equipment and tools be conveyed to

the work location?
Describe the working or walking surface.

Describe any environmental factors to

consider, such as heat, cold, slippery, wet,
wind, glare?
Will work activities create a hazard for
persons below, and if so, is barricading
required to keep non-essential personnel
away?
Describe protection method
Note: list follows fall protection hierarchy
1. Guard rail system
2. Fall restraint
3. Fall arrest If fall arrest will be used complete Section 2, Fall Arrest Requirements.

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SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Environment, Safety & Health Division
Chapter 45 | Elevated Surface Work Plan Form

2. Fall Arrest Requirements

Complete this section only if fall arrest will be used.

Fall Hazard Analysis

Requirements Answers / Solutions / Description

Are there any approved anchorage points I can

use? Where?

Are these points labeled as approved anchorage

point(s) or obviously capable of holding 5000 lbs or
2 times the anticipated load as determined by a
designated SLAC qualified person?

If not, can approved pre-manufactured or

engineered anchorages be installed?

Have the anchor point(s) been inspected?

Do I have the right equipment? List equipment to

be used, such as full body harness, minimum
length lanyard, shock absorber, connecting
hardware, I-beam strap, self-retracting lifeline, etc.)

What is the clearance or how far is the distance

that I may fall?

Is there at least 15-18 feet of clear space from the

anchorage point before the next level down?
(calculate fall distance to include lanyard length,
deceleration distance of 3.5 feet, your height, and
the safety factor – generally 3 feet).

What is between me and the ground or floor

below? Are there any hazards nearby or
underneath that are exposed or could become
exposed in an impact (plumbing lines, electrical
exposures, protruding or impalement hazards,
etc.)?

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SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Environment, Safety & Health Division
Chapter 45 | Elevated Surface Work Plan Form

Rescue Plan
Requirements Answers / Solutions / Description

How will rescue be ensured within 15 minutes, (If no rescue equipment is available locally, contact the fall protection competent person.)
should a fall occur?
List rescue equipment immediately available for
this location and describe how it can be staged
quickly should it be needed. Include whatever
might be needed such as a ladder, aerial device,
elevating work platform, tripod, additional harness,
controlled descent device, winch, pulley, etc.)
(Immediate response is required to minimize the
risk of further injury or death due to suspension
trauma.)

What obstructions are in the way of reaching the

suspended worker?

How will the safety of rescuers be ensured?

List the communication system(s) will be used

between the suspended worker and rescue team?

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SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Environment, Safety & Health Division
Chapter 45 | Elevated Surface Work Plan Form

3. Work Plan Drawing

For both views show the work area, how it will be accessed, and all equipment used (ladder, mobile elevation work platform,
anchorages points, restraint equipment, arrest equipment, barricades, etc). If fall arrest is needed, include details (free-fall and
deceleration distance, worker height, lanyard length, etc.) and the rescue plan. Add pages if needed.

Plan View (bird’s-eye view)

Elevation Drawing (side view)

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SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Environment, Safety & Health Division
Chapter 45 | Elevated Surface Work Plan Form

4. Approvals
ESWP author (print): Pager/cell:

ESWP author (sign): Date:

Competent person (print): Pager/cell:

Competent person (sign): Date:

Building/area/facility manager or designee (print): Pager/cell:

Building/area/facility manager or designee (sign): Date:

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Fall Protection: Fall Protection Plan Requirements
Department: Field Safety and Building Inspection Office
Program: Fall Protection
Owner: Program Manager
Authority: ESH Manual, Chapter 45, Fall Protection
A fall protection plan 1 must be developed, by a designated SLAC qualified person (for
SLAC-performed construction) or by the subcontractor’s qualified person (for
subcontractor-performed construction) when conventional fall protection systems cannot
be used during construction activities. The fall protection plan must
 Be used for construction activities only
 Demonstrate why conventional fall protection cannot or should not be used
 Be prepared and changed only by a qualified person and developed specifically for
the site where the construction work is being performed
 Name the qualified person who developed the plan
 Must be approved in writing by the fall protection program manager
 Be kept up to date as the project progresses or conditions change
 Be kept at the job site
 Be implemented under the supervision of a competent person in fall protection, who
must be identified in the plan
 Include written discussion of other measures that will be taken to reduce or eliminate
the fall hazard for workers who cannot be provided with protection provided by
conventional fall protection systems
 Identify locations where conventional fall protection methods cannot be used and
designate these locations as controlled access zones (CAZ), and identify each
employee allowed to work in the CAZ
 Implement a safety monitoring system as needed

1 For a sample plan, see Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations, “Labor”, Part 1926, “Safety and Health
Regulations for Construction”, Subpart M, “Fall Protection”, Appendix E, “Sample Fall Protection
Plan - Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with 1926.502(k)” (29 CFR 1926 Subpart M App E)

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