At Height Works we are passionate about everything safety when it comes to working at heights. As fall protection safety experts preventing falls while working at heights is what we live, breath and sleep every day.
Falls from heights are a significant occupational hazard in Canada, leading to serious injuries and fatalities each year. The statistics and underlying factors contributing to these incidents are explored, highlighting the importance of safety measures in preventing such accidents.
The Statistics
Falls from heights are a major cause of workplace injuries and deaths in Canada. According to data from the Labour Program, between 2010 and 2014, there were 16 fatalities in the federal jurisdiction due to falls from heights. Additionally, in 2017, there were 48,891 lost-time injury claims related to workplace falls, with 63 of these incidents resulting in death.
Common Scenarios
Workers in various industries are at risk of falling from heights. These scenarios include:
- Construction Sites: Workers often operate on scaffolding, ladders, and roofs, where the risk of falling is high.
- Telecommunications: Climbing towers and poles poses significant fall dangers.
- Agriculture: Grain elevators and other tall structures are common in this sector.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Tasks such as window washing and building maintenance often require working at heights.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the risk of falls from heights:
- Lack of Proper Training: Workers may not receive adequate training on how to safely work at heights.
- Inadequate Safety Equipment: The absence or improper use of safety harnesses, guardrails, and other protective gear increases the risk of falls.
- Environmental Conditions: Weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice can make surfaces slippery and hazardous creating optimal situations for falls.
- Human Error: Mistakes or lapses in judgment can lead to work at height accidents.
Prevention Measures
To reduce the incidence of falls from heights, several measures can be implemented:
- Comprehensive Training: Ensuring that all workers receive thorough training on safety protocols and the proper use of fall protection equipment.
- Regular Equipment Inspections: Conduct third party equipment inspections to ensure that all safety gear is in good condition and functioning correctly.
- Implementing Safety Protocols: Establish and enforce strict safety guidelines for working at heights.
- Environmental Controls: Taking steps to mitigate environmental hazards, such as using anti-slip coatings and ensuring proper drainage to prevent ice formation.
Falls from heights remain a critical safety issue in Canadian workplaces. By understanding the risks and implementing effective prevention strategies, employers can significantly reduce the number of injuries and fatalities. Ensuring the safety of your workers not only protects lives but also enhances productivity and morale within the workforce.
Should you or your organization be interested in learning more about a variety of Height Works services designed to help your organization identify risks, either through our Consulting Services or Annual Inspection and Testing Services, which are all designed to help your organization manage your risk, while ensuring the safety of your employees.
Contact Height Works today for more information.