Fall Protection
What is Fall Protection?
Fall protection is a critical safety practice aimed at preventing falls from heights or mitigating injuries in case a fall occurs. It is especially important in industries like construction, maintenance, rope access, and energy sectors, where workers are frequently exposed to elevated work environments. The primary goal of fall protection is to protect workers from injuries or fatalities by utilizing a combination of equipment, procedures, and training.
In Canada, fall protection is governed by specific safety regulations across all provinces to ensure that workers are protected when working at heights. This article provides an overview of fall protection practices, the legislation that governs it, and the equipment necessary to keep workers safe on the job.
Legislation for Fall Protection in Canada
In Canada, each province has its own set of occupational health and safety regulations that employers and workers must follow. The primary legislation includes regulations surrounding the use of fall protection equipment and the requirements for anchor points used to secure fall arrest systems.
Alberta’s Fall Protection Legislation
Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code has strict guidelines when it comes to fall protection. According to the OHS Code, fall protection is required when workers are exposed to falls of 3 meters or more or when there is a potential hazard, such as dangerous machinery, near the fall area. Employers must also ensure that anchor points used in fall arrest systems are capable of supporting at least 16kN (kilonewtons) or 3200 lbs.
Key regulations in Alberta include:
- Anchor Selection: All anchor points must be independently tested and rated for a minimum of 16kN (or 3200 lbs). This ensures that in the event of a fall, the anchor can support the forces generated by the fall and stop the worker from hitting the ground or any other obstacles.
- Equipment and Training: Workers must use certified equipment such as harnesses, lanyards, and other fall arrest systems. Employers must ensure workers are trained in using this equipment and aware of the legislation governing fall protection.
You can explore more detailed legislation in Alberta through the Occupational Health and Safety Code.
British Columbia and Ontario Legislation
Similarly, in British Columbia and Ontario, fall protection is required for workers exposed to heights greater than 3 meters. WorkSafeBC and Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) both stipulate that employers must provide fall protection equipment, ensure workers are trained, and develop fall protection plans when necessary.
In both provinces, the importance of selecting appropriately rated anchor points and regularly inspecting equipment for wear and tear is emphasized. Workers are encouraged to use best practices to ensure their safety and prevent accidents from occurring.
Fall Protection Equipment
The foundation of any fall protection system lies in the use of properly rated and maintained equipment. Below are the essential components of a fall protection system, each designed to reduce the risk of injury or fatality.
Harness
A full-body harness is one of the most vital pieces of fall protection equipment. It distributes the forces of a fall evenly across the body, preventing concentrated force on any one part. Harnesses feature shoulder, chest, and leg straps, and connect to fall arrest systems via D-rings.
- Best Practice: Regular inspections for fraying, wear, or damage are essential. Workers must ensure that their harness is properly adjusted to fit securely.
Helmet
Helmets protect workers from head injuries in the event of a fall or from falling objects. A helmet with a chin strap ensures it stays on during any impact.
- Best Practice: Use helmets that are rated for fall protection work, ensuring they comply with industry safety standards.
Lanyards
Lanyards are crucial in connecting the harness to the anchor point. They are typically designed to absorb the force of a fall, reducing the shock on the worker’s body. There are different types of lanyards, including shock-absorbing lanyards and self-retracting lifelines (SRLs).
- Best Practice: Inspect lanyards before every use. Look for signs of wear, tears, or other damage that may compromise their effectiveness.
Climb Assist Devices
Climb assist devices are commonly used in industries like wind energy, where workers must climb tall ladders frequently. These devices provide assistance by reducing the physical strain of climbing, which reduces fatigue and the likelihood of a fall.
- Best Practice: Ensure workers are properly trained in using climb assist devices and that these devices are regularly inspected and maintained.
Brand of Choice: At Rope Contractors, we use 3M fall protection equipment, renowned for its reliability and durability. 3M’s product range includes industry-leading harnesses, lanyards, and helmets that comply with Canadian fall protection regulations. More details on these products can be found here.
Fall Protection Training
Even with the best equipment in place, proper training is essential for preventing falls. Workers need to understand how to use fall protection equipment, identify hazards, and follow safety protocols.
At Rope Contractors, all employees undergo the Energy Safety Canada Fall Protection training program. This 8-hour, hands-on course focuses on key topics such as:
Fall Protection Concepts: Workers learn the basic principles behind fall protection systems, including how forces act on the body during a fall and how fall arrest equipment minimizes these forces.
Legislation and Regulations: Trainees are familiarized with provincial regulations, ensuring compliance with local laws.
Safety Measures and Best Practices: Emphasizing proactive safety planning, trainees learn how to prevent accidents before they occur.
Identifying and Assessing Fall Hazards: Workers are trained to recognize potential hazards and assess the risks involved when working at heights.
Fall Arrest Systems and Equipment: Trainees learn how to use and maintain harnesses, lanyards, and other fall arrest systems effectively.
Protection Planning: Workers are taught to develop comprehensive fall protection plans tailored to specific jobsites.
Effects of a Fall and Fall Rescue Planning: Understanding the physical effects of a fall and the steps required to perform a safe rescue are also critical parts of this training.
The certification is valid for three years, after which workers must undergo refresher courses to ensure their knowledge and skills remain up to date.
Conclusion
Fall protection is a vital component of workplace safety in Canada. From selecting properly rated anchor points to using high-quality equipment and providing comprehensive training, employers like Rope Contractors are committed to preventing falls and safeguarding their workers. By adhering to legislation, using trusted brands like 3M, and ensuring ongoing training through programs like Energy Safety Canada’s Fall Protection course, employers can reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities, creating a safer working environment for everyone.
Whether you’re in Alberta, British Columbia, or Ontario, the regulations are clear—fall protection is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. Make safety your priority.