FALL PROTECTION

Romeo L. Bangasan, RN,MAN,RSP

IADC Certified H2S/SCBA - Train The Trainer
EMS/BLS/First Aid Lecturer/Instructor
Occupational Health and Safety Instructor
Fall Protection Course

Module Description
Module 1 Introduction to Fall Protection
Module 2 Hazards of Working at Heights
Module 3 Safe Work Practices
Module 4 Fall Protection System
Module 5 Fall Prevention System
Module 6 Fall Arrest System
Module 7 Emergency Rescue Procedures
Module 8 Practical Demonstration and Exercises
Written Assessment
Q&A

2
 Module 1 :
Introduction to
Fall Protection
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Importance of Fall Protection

 Do your hands get sweaty when you watch someone working

from heights?
 Do you know anyone who has fallen off a deck or roof?
 Falls from heights account for more than 30% of the fatalities in
the construction industry!
 This is a number that can be reduced, a trend that can be
reversed, with proper training and awareness by those employees
who work at heights!
 Remember! Before you work at a height that requires Fall
Protection, you must receive training in height associated
hazards!
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Importance of Fall Protection

To improve upon the

past, we must care
about our future!
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Importance of Fall Protection

We have come a long way, but there is always room for improvement!
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Fall Protection Requirements

 General Industry regulations

 Platforms, equipment used to lift workers
 Construction industry regulations
 Scaffolds, cranes, steel erection, tunneling, stairways, ladders,
mobile work platforms
 Rule of thumb
 When working 1.8 m (5.9 ft) or more above a lower level, some
form of fall protection is required
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Fall Protection Plan

• A fall protection plan is required for

every scaffolding job.
• A fall protection plan contains:
a) What fall protection to use, how
to use them and who is
responsible for overall
supervision and training?
b) Standard safe-work practices
and operating procedures
• Be prepared to go over this plan
with your crew boss or lead worker
at the beginning of every
scaffolding job.
8
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Type of Fall Protection Required for Specific Scaffolds

9
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Real-World Falls Case 1

11
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Real-World Falls Case 2

12
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Real-World Falls Case 3

13
Module 1 – Introduction to Fall Protection
Real-World Falls Case 4

14
 Module 2 :
Hazards of working
at Heights
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Hazard Recognition

 Tripping over tools, materials, etc.

 Workers not aware of their location
 Failure to use required fall protection
 Dropping objects
 Lifting people with improper equipment
 Using inadequate anchoring points
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Common Hazards

Below are the common hazards of scaffolds:

a) Falls from elevation due to lack of fall protection (Number 1 hazard)
b) Collapse of the scaffold, caused by instability or overloading
c) Struck by falling tools, work materials, or debris
d) Electric shock because scaffold is near to overhead power lines.

Fall Collapse Falling objects Electric shock

17
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
When Can Fall Take Place?

• Falls may occur when:

a) You climb on or off the scaffold
b) Work on unguarded scaffold platforms
c) Scaffold platforms or planks fail

Climbing Unguarded platforms Failed platforms

18
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Unprotected Sides & Edges

Unprotected edge
or leading edge

Unprotected sides and edges must

have guardrails or equivalent
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Unprotected Sides & Edges

 Perform work at ground level if possible

 Example: building prefab roofs on the ground and lifting into
place with a crane
 Tether or restrain workers so they can't reach the edge
 Designate and use safety monitors (This is less desirable of
all the systems)
 Use conventional fall protection
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Falling Objects

 When working above ground:

 Don’t leave tools or materials where they might be
kicked over the edge or tripped over
 Don’t throw items over the edge.
 Wear hard hats when working under an aboveground
work area.
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Falling Objects – Use Tool Lanyard

22
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Suspension Dangers

 Safety harnesses are used in a wide range of situations

 Fall Protection
 Confined Spaces
 Mountain Climbers
 A little known fact is that these same harnesses,
intended to protect, can also severely injure and even
kill the person wearing them!
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Suspension Dangers

 Harnesses can become deadly when a worker is

suspended for duration’s over five minutes in an upright
posture, with the legs relaxed straight beneath the body.
 This can occur in many different situations in general
industry or construction work
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Suspension Trauma

 Suspension trauma death is caused by orthostatic

incompetence (also called orthostatic intolerance)
 Orthostatic intolerance can occur any time a person is
required to stand quietly for prolong periods and may
be worsened by heat and dehydration.
 It is most commonly encountered in military parades
where soldiers must stand at attention for prolonged
periods.
26
Module 2 – Hazards of Working at Heights
Suspension Trauma

 In suspension trauma, several unfortunate things occur that

aggravate the problem.
 First, the worker is suspended in an upright posture with legs
dangling.
 Second, the safety harness straps exert pressure on leg
veins, compressing them and reducing blood flow back to the
heart.
 Third, the harness keeps the worker in an upright position,
regardless of loss of consciousness, which can eventually be
fatal.
Module 3 :
Safe Work
Practices
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Aboveground Working Rules

 Use a mobile work platform only if you’re trained and authorized

 Only trained and authorized employees should work on elevated areas
 Stay away from edges, unless you are working there
 Never run when working above ground
 Listen for verbal warnings
 Hardhats must have chin-straps and they must be worn!
 Anchor all tools! (It is suggested that tools be anchored to the work location
not to the employee to prevent injury to the employee in the event of a fall.)
 If safety nets cannot be used, barricade the area directly under the work
location!
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Aboveground Working Rules

 Perform work at ground level if possible

 Example: building prefab roofs on the ground
and lifting into place with a crane
 Tether or restrain workers so they can't reach the
edge
 Designate and use safety monitors (This is less
desirable of all the systems)
 Use conventional fall protection
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Aboveground Working Rules

 Effective communication and coordination between adjacent work crews and

Supervisors.
 Clear and visible barricading that does not give mixed messages as to the
hazards in the area (i.e., mixing red (Danger) and yellow (Caution) barricade
tape).
 Proper rigging techniques being utilized and inspecting all equipment for any
signs of defects or damage.
 Securing loose materials and providing containers for small items. (Do not
look the other way and walk by unsafe conditions just because it’s not your
tool or material.)
 Ensuring open holes and leading edges have the appropriate fall protection
systems installed (i.e., hole covers, toe boards, debris netting, etc.)
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Equipment Inspection

 Signing Safety Task Analysis (STA) form indicates employees verification that
they have inspected.
 Inspect before every use (Start of day, after breaks/lunch)
 Cuts, tears, abrasions, stitches coming out
 Cracks or burrs
 Parts move freely
 No alterations
 Appropriate labels
 Record monthly Competent Person inspections on the monthly log sheet.
(Equipment has a 5 year life)
 Color coded tape reflecting current monthly color
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Equipment Inspection

 Signing Safety Task Analysis (STA) form indicates employees verification that
they have inspected.
 Inspect before every use (Start of day, after breaks/lunch)
 Cuts, tears, abrasions, stitches coming out
 Cracks or burrs
 Parts move freely
 No alterations
 Appropriate labels
 Record monthly Competent Person inspections on the monthly log sheet.
(Equipment has a 5 year life)
 Color coded tape reflecting current monthly color
34
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Safety Task Analysis

 Required for all tasks performed on

all Project Sites.
 Contractor Supervisor is the
Responsible Person (RP) to
complete (not the Safety
Representative (SR)).
 Companies Conduct an HSE
Training Course for those who have
to write STA’s to cover tasks that
their employees will perform.
Module 3 – Safe Work Practices
Permit

ELEVATED WORK PERMIT

 Must be attached to the STA.
 Required in addition to a
Scaffolding Permit.
 Must be signed by all “Authorized”
signers as required in Section A.
 Only valid for 1 Shift.
 Pre and Post Inspections must be
completed.
 Module 4 :
Fall Protection
Systems
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Types of Fall Protection System

• There are 2 types of Fall Protection Systems: Fall Prevention

System and Fall Arrest System
• Fall Prevention System e.g Guardrails
• Fall Arrest System e.g. Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS) and
safety net

PFAS Guardrails
38
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Phases of Fall Protection

 There are four phases of fall protection:

 Before the fall
 At fall arrest
 Suspension
 Rescue
40
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Phases of Fall Protection – Before the Fall

 They key issue of fall protection before the fall is compliance.

 If a harness is too uncomfortable, too inconvenient, or
interferes too much with task completion, workers may not use
the equipment or may modify it (illegally) to make it more
tolerable.
 A second major point is the length of the attachment lanyard,
or, how far can a worker fall before his fall is arrested
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Phases of Fall Protection – At Fall Arrest

 The whole concept of fall protection is that workers

who fall will be stopped by the tethering system.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Phases of Fall Protection - Suspension

 Many safety professionals naturally assume that, once

a fall has been arrested, the fall protection system has
successfully completed its job.
 Unfortunately, this is not the case. A worker suspended
in an upright position with legs dangling in a harness of
any type is subject to suspension trauma.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Phases of Fall Protection - Rescue

 Rescue must come rapidly to minimize the dangers of suspension

trauma. The circumstances together with the lanyard attachment
point will determine the possibilities of self-rescue.
 In situations where self-rescue is not likely to be possible, workers
must be supervised at all times or must rely upon others, because
a worker may lose consciousness in only a few minutes. Time is of
the essence!
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Recommendations - Before the Potential Fall

 Where possible, workers should not be permitted to work alone in a

harness.
 Rope/cable tenders must make certain the harness user is conscious
at all times … Communication!
 Time in suspension should be limited to under five minutes. Longer
suspensions must have foothold straps or means for putting weight
on the legs.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Recommendations - Before the Potential Fall

 Harnesses should be selected for specific applications

and must consider: compliance (convenience),
potential arrest injury, and suspension trauma.
Suspension Trauma Foot-straps should be provided!
 Tie-off lanyards should be anchored overhead and as
taunt as work permits. Must be capable of supporting
5000 lbs.
47
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Recommendations – After A Fall

 Worker should be trained to try to move their legs in the harness

and try to push against any footholds, DO NOT REMAIN STATIC!
 Workers suspended in a harness should be trained to try to get
their legs as high as possible and their heads as close to horizontal
as possible.
 If the worker is suspended upright, emergency measures must be
taken to remove the worker from suspension or move the fallen
worker into a horizontal posture, or a least to a sitting position.
 All personnel should be trained that suspension in an upright
position for longer than five minutes can be fatal.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Recommendations For Harness Rescue

 The victims should not be suspended in a vertical

(upright) posture with the legs dangling straight.
Victims should be kept as nearly horizontal as
possible, or a least in a sitting position.
 Rescuers should be trained that victims who are
suspended vertically before rescue are in a potentially
fatal situation.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Recommendations on Harnesses

 It may be advantageous in some circumstances to

locate the lanyard or tie-off attachment of the harness
as near to the body’s center of gravity as possible to
reduce the whiplash and other trauma when a fall is
arrested. This also facilitates moving head downward
while suspended.
 Front (stomach or chest) rather than rear (back)
harness lanyard attachment points could aid uninjured
workers in self-rescue.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Recommendations on Harnesses

 If a worker is required to spend time hanging in a

harness, a harness with a seat (rather than straps
alone) should be used to help position the upper legs
horizontally.
 A gradual arrest device, (shock-absorbing lanyard),
should always be used to lessen deceleration impact.
 Communicate these potential hazards to all harness-
wearing workers.
Module 4 – Fall Protection System
Positioning Chair

FBH must be worn and tied-off to an independent life-line

 Module 5 :
Fall Prevention
System
Module 5 – Fall Prevention System
Guardrail Systems

• Guardrails must be used if the scaffold is taller than 10 feet

• Guardrail systems must be used to protect walkways within a
scaffold
• Guardrail systems must be installed along all open sides and ends
of platforms

54
Module 5 – Fall Prevention System
Guardrail Systems

• Front edge of platforms not more than 14 inches from the face of the
structure.
• When the front edge of the platform is more than 14 inches away
from the face of the structure, this edge requires a guardrail or
workers must use a PFAS

55
Module 5 – Fall Prevention System
Guardrail Systems

• Top rails - 38 to 45 inches tall

• Midrails halfway between toprail and platform
• Toeboards at least 3-1/2 inches high if there is a potential for
falling objects.

56
Module 5 – Fall Prevention System
Guardrail Systems

• Guardrail components must be surfaced so they do not

cause:
a) Puncture wounds
b) Lacerations
c) Snagged clothing which may cause employees to lose
their balance.

57
Module 5 – Fall Prevention System
Guardrail Systems
Module 5 – Fall Prevention System
Other Fall Protection System

 Controlled Access Zones (CAZ) (Applies to Brick-

laying or Roof Construction only)
 Warning line system
 Safety monitoring
Module 6 :
Fall Arrest
System
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Components of PFAS

A B C
61
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Components of PFAS

• Other parts of the PFAS

may include :
1. Lanyard
2. Shock absorber
3. Lifeline

62
 Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
When to Use PFAS?

 Working above a lower

level
 Worker positioning
 Worker restraint
 Climbing
 Worker riding or lifting

Lanyards and PFAS in use

Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Use of Waist Belts are Prohibited

• As of 1st January 1998, use of waist belts are not allowed as part of
PFAS because they impose a danger of internal injuries when
stopping a fall.
• If you fall, the high force of the fall is concentrated at your waist rather
than the 6 points of a full body harness.

64
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Harness

 Arresting forces on thighs, pelvis, waist,

chest and shoulders
 Harness rated for 818.2 Kg (1,800
lbs) of arresting forces
 Tolerable suspension time of 15
minutes
 If you fall, during suspension DO NOT
REMAIN STATIC! Move around!
 D-rings
 Upper back for fall arrest
 Sides for positioning
 Front for rescue or suspension
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Harness

 Pants pockets shall be empty. Anything in a pocket may be

forced into the crotch and pierce the femoral artery. If the
femoral artery is pierced, you can bleed to death in four (4)
minutes or less.
 Leg straps shall be fitted snugly to the crotch. The force of a
loose strap sliding up in a fall will injure genitalia of both
genders.
 Harness shall be worn outside of all clothing. Lanyard must
always free to support you directly, without the interference of
clothing.
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Harness

 Waist belt shall be snug.

 Shoulder straps shall be snug.
 When adjusting straps, bend knees and back. Upon
standing straight the straps should fit snugly.
 The Retractable Life Line (vertical) shall always be
connected directly to the dorsal D-ring. Never wear a
lanyard between a harness and a retractable life line.
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Lifeline and Robe Grabs

 A rope or webbed material only

 To connect personal fall arrest system to an anchor
point
 Hanging vertically from one anchor point
 Stretching horizontally between two anchor points
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Lifeline and Robe Grabs
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Lanyard

 Connects harness to lifeline or anchor

 Stretching or tearing system absorbs shock, prevents
bouncing to reduce arresting forces
 Steel provides no give, so large arresting forces
 Nylon rope gives mild arresting forces, however it
bounces, so lots of jolts
 No knots or wrapping around sharp objects
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Lanyard
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Lanyard & Anchorage Strap
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Arresting Forces

 The act of falling is not painful

 Striking an object or sudden stopping causes pain
 Body weight X the fall distance = force
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
D-Ring

• The attachment point on a full body harness is a D-Ring on

the upper back
• D-Rings mush have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000
pounds, and be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of
3,600 pounds without cracking, breaking, or becoming
permanently deformed.

74
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Anchors

Fall arrest equipment is only as good as the anchor

• An anchor must be able to withstand 5000 pounds of force per worker
without failing.
• Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment must
be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend
platforms
• Manufactured anchors must be installed according to manufacturer’s
instructions under the supervision of a qualified person
• Check pre-installed anchors before using.
• In a fall, your life depends on the anchor holding.

8
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Anchors

 Located directly above you

 Avoid swinging
 Clear drop zone
 Can withstand 2,272.72 Kg (5,000 lbs.) of force
 Don’t use guardrail or other item that may break
 Ask a supervisor or Safety Representative if unsure about proper anchor
points
 Check the STA to see if the anchor points have been identified with any
special colored tape
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Snap hooks

• Snap hooks must have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds

• Snap hooks must be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of
3,600 pounds without cracking, breaking, or becoming permanently
deformed.
• Snap hooks must be of locking type
• Never hook two snap hooks together

77
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Securing PFAS

 Worker tied to fixed object.

 Harness to be worn.
 Lanyard, lifeline, deceleration device.
 Never use to lift workers or objects!
 Never use to move equipment or materials!
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Securing PFAS

Personal fall-arrest systems used on scaffolds must be

attached by connecting device to a vertical lifeline, horizontal
lifeline, or scaffold structural member.

79
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Securing PFAS – Vertical Lifelines

When vertical lifelines are used,

they must be:
a) anchored to a safe* fixed point of
anchorage
b) independent of the scaffold
c) protected from sharp edges and
abrasion
*Safe points of anchorage include
structural members of buildings, but
not standpipes, vents, electrical
conduit, etc., which may give way
under the force of a fall.
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Securing PFAS - Vertical Lifelines

It is dangerous and therefore not

allowed for two or more vertical
lifelines to be attached to each
other, or to the same point of
anchorage

81
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Securing PFAS – Horizontal Lifelines

Horizontal lifelines must

be:
a) secured to two or more
structural members of
the scaffold
b) looped around both
suspension and
independent suspension
lines above the hoist
and brake
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Some PFAS Do’s and Don’ts

• Do inspect for wear and damage before use

• Remove from service after a fall for inspection.

• Don’t use to lift materials.

• Don’t attach to guardrails or hoists.

83
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Fall Arrest Gear Inspection

Look for the following:

Webbing - Cuts, tears, abrasion,
fraying, stretching, mold, chemical
damage
D-rings - Cracks, breaks corrosion,
rough edges
Tongue-buckle - Distortions, added
holes, broken grommets
Ropes - Abrasion, internal damage

84
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Beam Trolley Anchorage
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Deceleration Device

 Dissipates a substantial amount of energy during a fall

arrest
 Rip-stitch, tearing, or stretching lanyard
 Rope grab device
 Retracting lifelines or lanyards
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Beam Clamp Anchor Point
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Beam Clamp Anchor Point
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Beam Clamp Anchor Point

89
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Connectors

 Connectors are vital parts of the fall protection system

 Includes self-locking snaphooks
 Nonlocking snaphooks cannot be part of personal fall
arrest systems
 Do not link similar connectors together
 Never tie a knot for a connection
Module 6 – Fall Arrest System
Safety Nets

 Safety devices located under

elevated workers
 Place as close as possible, but
no more than 9.1 m (30 ft) below
where employees work
 Made of strong rope mesh
 Capable of withstanding a drop-
test of 180kg (392lbs) from 1.1m
(3.0ft)
 Inspection requirements
Module 7 :
Emergency
Rescue
Procedure
Module 7 – Emergency Rescue Procedures
Rescue Plan

 Each Contractor must have a

rescue plan attached to their job
specific Safety Task Analysis
(STA)
 Employees must be trained on
the Rescue Plan
 Limit Hanging / suspension time,
employees must be trained on
the hazards associated with
suspensions and time
Module 7 – Emergency Rescue Procedures
Guidelines to Develop Rescue Plan

 Effective plans don't need to be elaborate.

 Get others involved in planning.
 Key objectives for an effective emergency-response plan include:
a) Identify the emergencies that could affect your site
b) Establish a chain of command
c) Establish procedures for responding to the emergencies
d) Identify critical resources and rescue equipment
e) Train on-site responders.
 Identify emergencies that could affect your workplace.
 Identify critical resources and rescue equipment - First-aid supplies and
rescue equipment

94
Module 7 – Emergency Rescue Procedures
Responding To Falls

Before on-site work begins

a) Identify emergencies that could affect your work site.
b) Establish a chain of command.
c) Document procedures for responding to emergencies and make sure they're
available at the site.
d) Post emergency-responder phone numbers and addresses at the work site.
e) Identify critical resources and rescue equipment.
f) Train on-site responders.
g) Identify off-site responders and inform them about any conditions at the site that
may hinder a rescue effort.
h) Identify emergency entry and exit routes.
i) Make sure responders have quick access to rescue and retrieval equipment,
such as lifts and ladders.
95
Module 7 – Emergency Rescue Procedures
Responding To Falls

During on-site work

a) Identify on-site equipment that can be used for rescue and
retrieval, such as extension ladders and mobile lifts.
b) Maintain a current rescue-equipment inventory at the site.
Equipment may change frequently as the job progresses.
c) Re-evaluate and update the emergency-response plan
when on-site work tasks change.

96
Module 7 – Emergency Rescue Procedures
Responding To Falls

When an emergency occurs

a) First responders should clear a path to the victim. Others should
direct emergency personnel to the scene. You can use 997 for
ambulance service; however, most 997 responders are not
trained to rescue a worker suspended in a personal fall-arrest
system. Make sure only trained responders attempt a technical
rescue.
b) Prohibit all nonessential personnel from the rescue site.
c) Talk to the victim; determine the victim's condition, if possible.
d) If you can reach the victim, check for vital signs, administer
CPR, attempt to stop bleeding, and make the victim comfortable.

97
Module 7 – Emergency Rescue Procedures
Responding To Falls

a) Report fatalities, catastrophes and injuries to the authority and

company
b) Identify equipment that may have contributed to the emergency and
put it out of service. Have a competent person examine equipment. If
the equipment is damaged, repair or replace it. If the equipment
caused the accident, determine how and why.
c) Document in detail the cause of the emergency.
d) Review emergency procedures. Determine how the procedures could
be changed to prevent similar events; revise the procedures
accordingly.

98
Module 8 :
Practical
Procedure
Module 8 – Practical Demonstration and Exercises
Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS)

 The Instructor will now demonstrate the correct way

to put-on, adjust and wear a PFAS (Full Body
Harness) with a shock absorbing lanyard attached

REMEMBER ANY TIE-OFF POINT MUST BE

ABOVE YOUR HEAD!
END OF
TRAINING