Falling Objects
Circumstances which contribute to the
likelihood of falling material include:
• Bad storage of materials such as at the edge of a
scaffold platform
• Poor housekeeping will lead to the accumulation of
waste material.
• Gaps in platform surfaces or between access platforms
and walls.
• Open, unprotected edges.
• Incorrect methods of getting material from the ground to
the working level.
• Incorrect methods of getting material from the work area
to the ground.
Scaffolding / Manlifts
• Toe boards must be in place.
• Good housekeeping on scaffolds / manlifts is essential to prevent
falling objects.
• Barricade the area below and post warning signs to prevent people
from entering.
• Where materials are piled higher than the toe board, paneling or
screening extending from the toe board to the top of the guardrail
shall be erected.
• Make sure all tools, materials and equipment are secure while on
the scaffold / manlift.
• Do not throw tools, equipment, and debris over the edge of the
scaffold / manlift when personnel are working below.
• Remember that bad weather can cause difficulties for outdoor work;
high winds can blow equipment, tools, and debris off platforms.
Hand Tools / Materials
• Attach tools to the area at height by safety lines so if they are
dropped they will not reach the level of people working below
• Tools must be in a tool holder or tied to a rope while not in use when
working at heights.
• Hammer wrenches must have a tool holder or rope attached to the
personnel or structure and never held in the hand while striking it.
• Use containers or buckets and hand lines when you send material,
tools or equipment to higher elevations
• While lifting the tools, materials, and equipment make sure to use a
tagline.
• Do not throw tools from one location to another, from one employee
to another, from scaffolds or other elevated platforms.
• All bolts and small items shall be put in a bolt bag to be hoisted by
hand.
Warehouse Storage
• If shelves or storage racks are used, check them
for defects so they will not collapse and cause
their contents to fall.
• Store heavy and bulky objects close to the floor.
• Lighter and smaller objects should be stored
higher.
• Avoid storing heavy items above shoulder level.
Stacking Materials
No Barricading / Guards
Securing Tools
Hoisting Material
Netting / Mesh