According to NIOSH, in the construction industry, falls make up more than 30 percent of fatalities. In 2020, 350 people died from falls. All of these deaths were preventable.

National Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction Week is May 2-6. This week focuses on preventing falls in the workplace through education. Employers are encouraged to talk to employees about preventing fall hazards by holding a stand-down.

There are numerous resources and events available to employers and workers. NIOSH has videos, posters, webinars and more on its website. OSHA also has a list of free events on its website.

“Falls remain the leading cause of work-related deaths in construction, accounting for one-third of all on-the-job deaths in the industry,” said NIOSH Director John Howard, M.D in the press release. “Employers can set aside time on the job to reinforce the knowledge, training and resources that are available for creating safer workplaces and preventing fatalities and injuries related to falls.”

The stand down is held by NIOSH, OSHA, the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Construction Sector Council and CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training.

Source: https://ohsonline.com/articles/2022/04/29/national-safety-stand-down.aspx?admgarea=news