OSHA 1926 Subpart M – Fall Protection Standard Overview

Falls are one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. To address this, OSHA established the 1926 Subpart M – Fall Protection Standard. This standard mandates that employers protect workers from fall hazards when they are working at heights of 6 feet or more above a lower level.
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Key requirements include:

• Guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems must be implemented in areas where fall hazards exist.
• Hole protection: Covers or guardrails are required for any holes in walking or working surfaces.
• Training: Employers must provide training on the correct use of fall protection systems, ensuring employees understand the risks and the equipment.
• Protection from falling objects: Employers must also take steps to prevent tools or materials from falling onto workers below.

Failure to comply with these standards can lead to severe penalties and increased risk of workplace accidents. Proper fall protection not only ensures safety but also helps maintain compliance with OSHA regulations.
You can learn more by enrolling in our online course on OSHA 1926 Subpart M – Fall Protection.