Injury related deaths in adults over 65 years of age and adults in the workforce are on the rise. Approximately 33% of seniors from the age of 65-74 years of age will fall, with seniors over 75 at an even higher risk. There are different types of falls. This article will discuss what the different types of falls are and how to prevent falls by utilizing a Basic Fall Protection Training program
First off, there is what’s called an anticipated fall. An anticipated fall generally means that the person may have been exhibiting signs prior to the fall. Next is the unanticipated fall. These types of falls generally cannot be prevented before the first time it happens. Lastly is the accidental fall. Accidental falls are usually to be attributed to unknown environmental factors and can generally be prevented through safe environment control methods. Some of OSHA’s requirements for the workforce will be discussed in this article as well.
Subsequently, it is extremely important to execute a Basic Fall Protection Training Plan in the work place correctly. OSHA is a government agency that is there to protect the worker from injury and has a set of rules for employers to follow to protect their employees to the fullest extent. If an employee is using personal fall prevention, such as a harness, the employee should know how to inspect their equipment and report any potential problems to avoid injury or possibly even death. The employer should ensure that any floor hole is guarded and covered by using a railing and floor cover. Next is that any open platform that is 4 feet or higher off the ground needs to have a railing as well. Finally, no matter how high up the platform is, if the worker is in danger of falling into machinery or other hazardous material, a guardrail and toe board is necessary to prevent a fall.
Finally, as you can clearly see there are many ways to prevent a fall, especially in the workplace. Anticipating where there could be a potential issue and installing preventative equipment prior to an incident or injury is key. If you are a business owner who would like to enhance your current plan or if you need further assistance in setting up an initial fall training program, contact Ellis Fall Safety Solutions LLC.contact Ellis Fall Safety Solutions LLC.
