Schedule Fall Protection and Fire Extinguisher Demos Today!
Have you scheduled your fall protection demos or fire extinguisher demos yet? Don’t wait! Safety begins with preparation and education. Events like the Annual Fall Prevention Safety Stand-Down are a prime opportunity to prioritize worker safety and ensure your team is equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to stay protected on the job.
Why Do People Participate in the Annual Fall Prevention Safety Stand-Down (May 6–10)?
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) is urging employers nationwide to participate in the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, taking place May 6 to 10. This event, part of OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign, shines a spotlight on one of the construction industry’s deadliest hazards: falls from height.
Why Focus on Fall Prevention?
Falls from height are the leading cause of fatalities in construction, accounting for over 350 deaths and 20,000 severe injuries annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Alongside electrocution, being struck by objects, and caught-in/between incidents, falls form the “Fatal Four” safety risks in the industry.
This initiative emphasizes equipping workers with proper fall protection gear, providing thorough safety training, and fostering safe practices at every job site.
Social Media and Safety Awareness
At Colorado Safety Supply, we’ll promote training and education throughout the week. Join the conversation by sharing your stories, tips, and best practices with the hashtag #StandDown4Safety. This event also coincides with National Construction Safety Week, amplifying its mission of putting worker well-being first.
A Proven Track Record
Since its launch in 2014, the National Safety Stand-Down has educated over 10 million workers on fall prevention strategies. Participants range from small businesses to large corporations, including residential contractors, highway construction teams, and even branches of the U.S. military. This initiative has become a cornerstone of safety culture in the construction industry.
How Employers Can Participate
Getting involved is simple. Companies can:
- Pause work to conduct toolbox talks on fall prevention.
- Inspect safety equipment and ensure proper PPE fitting.
- Engage in rescue planning drills or job-specific hazard discussions.
- Address site-specific safety risks.
These activities underscore the shared responsibility of creating safer workplaces and saving lives.
Expert Advice for Safer Work Environments
Thom Kramer, a leading fall protection specialist and ASSP board member, stresses the importance of a proactive approach. “Every worker injury and fatality is preventable. By integrating prevention-through-design principles, ensuring proper training, and utilizing the right equipment, companies can significantly reduce risks,” Kramer says.
Businesses are encouraged to adopt comprehensive fall protection programs that align with the latest Z359.2 consensus standard—a roadmap for safer work environments.
OSHA’s Resources and Support
To help employers host impactful safety stand-downs, OSHA provides an array of resources, including:
- Infographics and articles on fall prevention.
- Ladder safety guides and fall protection videos.
- Hard hat stickers and hazard alert cards.
- Materials in English and Spanish.
These tools aim to engage and educate construction workers at every level.
Collaborative Efforts for Greater Impact
The Safety Stand-Down is supported by a coalition of organizations, including the ASSP, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR), and the National Safety Council (NSC). Together, they strive to make fall prevention a priority in every construction project.
The Legacy of the ASSP
Founded in 1911 after the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, the ASSP now represents over 35,000 safety professionals worldwide. The organization is instrumental in developing critical safety standards like the Z359.2 standard for fall protection and the ANSI/ASSP Z10.0 standard for occupational safety management.
Fall Protection: The Most Frequently Cited Standard
Despite advancements, fall protection remains a major challenge. For the 13th consecutive year, OSHA’s fall protection standard was the most cited violation, with over 7,200 infractions reported in fiscal year 2023. OSHA’s updated enforcement guidance allows “instance-by-instance” citations for severe violations, emphasizing the importance of compliance.
Take Action Today
The National Safety Stand-Down is your chance to reaffirm your commitment to worker safety. Participation goes beyond meeting regulatory requirements—it fosters a culture of safety that protects lives and prevents tragedies.
Mark your calendars for May 6–10 and join the effort to eliminate falls in construction. Schedule your fall protection and fire extinguisher demos with Colorado Safety Supply today, and let’s make safety a top priority together!