Fall protection is one of the biggest safety concerns on job sites, and OSHA continues to rank it as a top violation year after year. In fact, Fall Protection – General Requirements (1926.501) consistently ranks among the most cited safety violations, especially in the construction industry.
Falls are still one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities on job sites, yet many companies continue to struggle with compliance, proper training, and using the right equipment. The reality? Most fall-related accidents are preventable.
Why Is Fall Protection Such a Big Violation?
There are a few key reasons why fall protection violations keep showing up on OSHA’s radar:
- Lack of proper training – Too many workers aren’t fully trained on how to recognize fall hazards or use protective equipment correctly.
- Improper use of equipment – Harnesses, lanyards, and anchors are often misused or not inspected properly before use.
- Failure to provide fall protection – Some employers cut corners and fail to implement safety measures when working at heights.
- Complacency – Even experienced workers sometimes skip safety steps, thinking, "I’ve done this a hundred times; nothing will happen to me."
But safety isn’t just about checking a box for OSHA—it’s about making sure every worker goes home at the end of the day.
How Can You Stay Compliant?
Here’s how to ensure your team stays safe and avoids costly violations:
- Train workers on fall hazards and how to use safety equipment properly. Knowledge is the first line of defense.
- Inspect fall protection gear regularly. A harness won’t help if it’s worn out or damaged.
- Use the right safety systems. Guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems save lives.
- Make safety a habit. When safety becomes part of your crew’s culture, compliance is automatic.
What’s Your Fall Protection Plan?
Falls don’t just happen—they’re caused by preventable mistakes. So, how is your team staying compliant? What steps are you taking to reduce risks on your job sites?
Having the right fall protection gear is essential. Explore our Self-Retracting Lifeline (SRL) collection to ensure your team is equipped with reliable, OSHA-compliant solutions.
If you need training, equipment, or guidance on OSHA compliance, Colorado Safety Supply is here to help. Let’s work together to lower these violations and keep every worker safe on the job.