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Workplaces that identify any risk of injury due to a fall from heights should implement a fall protection plan that outlines the management of work at heights. These policies and procedures may cover a wide range of elements, such as the use of any fall protection equipment, or the assembling, maintaining, inspecting, using, and dismantling of equipment such as ladders, scaffolds, or platforms used for working at heights.
Employers must consider the hierarchy of control when selecting the safest method. Information about the hierarchy of control for fall protection is included in this document. Please see the OSH Answers “Hierarchy of Control ” for general information.
NOTE that other requirements may be needed that are not discussed in this document. Applying the hierarchy of control for work at heights can be complex. Always consult the legislation that applies in your situation, and with your jurisdiction for complete information. The following information is intended as guidance only.
The most effective method of control is to eliminate the need to work at a height.
Examples include:
Engineering controls are methods that are built into the design of a plant, equipment, materials, or other aspects of the physical work environment.
For example, guardrails are stationary or fixed (permanent) systems used to protect workers. The system is an engineering control because it does not rely on the worker to be trained to use or wear a fall protection system.
Other examples of engineering controls include:
Administrative controls can include workplace policies and rules that instruct workers in fall protection methods. Examples of administrative controls for fall protection include:
Personal protective equipment includes various methods, including: