Fall Protection

• Fall from Heights
• Injury to Body and Limbs
• Impalement
• Swing into structure or other obstruction
• Weather Conditions

• Fixed barriers (handrails, guardrails, covers)
• Warning lines/controlled zone
• Fall restraint system

Administrative: 

• Hazard Assessment
• SWP – Fall Protection
• Fall Protection Plan
• Emergency Response Plan (ERP)
• Manufacturer’s use and inspection requirements
• Reliable weather-monitoring tools (Environment Canada, AccuWeather, etc.)

Personal Protective Equipment: 

• Basic PPE: Safety Footwear, Hard Hat, High-Visibility Clothing
• Task Specific PPE: Personal Fall Protection System (PFAS)

• Health and Safety Orientation
• Applicable Legislation
• Manufacturer’s use and inspection requirements
• Fall protection training

1. Conduct a Hazard Assessment prior to starting work.
2. Review and complete the site-specific Fall Protection Plan before beginning any work at heights.
3. Select the appropriate fall protection system for the task (e.g., guardrails, warning lines, fall restraint, or personal fall arrest system).
4. Inspect all equipment before each use, including harnesses, lanyards, lifelines, connectors, and anchor points.
5. Ensure all components meet the manufacturer’s inspection and maintenance requirements.
6. Verify that all anchor points are capable of supporting at least 2,368 kg / 5,000 lbs per worker.
7. Confirm that workers have completed current and approved End-User Fall Protection Training.
8. Ensure a Rescue Plan or Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is in place and communicated to all involved workers.

During Operation

1. Use fall restraint whenever possible; if not feasible, use a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS).
2. Always connect the lanyard to an approved anchor point located above the D-ring on the worker’s back.
3. Maintain connection at all times while exposed to a fall hazard.
4. Adjust lanyard slack to restrict movement within safe working limits.
5. Do not work alone when using PFAS; ensure another trained person is present and capable of performing a rescue if needed.
6. Keep all fall protection equipment free from oil, grease, dirt, and other contaminants that may compromise performance.
7. Do not modify or alter any component of the system.
8. If guardrails or floor covers are removed to perform work, immediately implement an alternate form of protection such as warning lines, a controlled access zone, or PFAS.
9. Clearly mark all unprotected openings or edges with signage (e.g., “FALL HAZARD”) and ensure they remain barricaded or guarded when not actively in use.
10. Do not lean or reach over open edges or floor openings.

Follow the ABC’s for the use of PFAS:

A – Anchor Point: Should be easily accessible, located above the worker, and capable of supporting at least 2,368 kg / 5,000 lbs per person.
B – Body Harness: Use a full-body harness inspected before each use; ensure it fits correctly and is adjusted snugly.
C – Connecting Device: The link between harness and anchor; inspect for wear or damage before every use.
D – Descent and Rescue: A clear rescue plan must be in place for any worker whose fall has been arrested.

Post Operation

1. Inspect all fall protection equipment for signs of wear, deformation, or damage after use.
2. Remove any equipment from service that has arrested a fall or shows evidence of damage.
3. Clean, dry, and store harnesses, lanyards, and hardware as per manufacturer’s specifications.
4. Report any defects or near-miss incidents to the supervisor immediately.
5. Securely store the Fall Protection Plan and inspection records in accordance with company policy.