Falling Object

INTRODUCTION

Welding, cutting, and associated processes often take place in areas where failing objects may be present. Failing objects may seriously injure or kill. Failing objects are common problems on construction and demolition sites of all kinds, from buildings to bridges, and are also often a problem during maintenance work.

HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST FALLING OBJECTS
• Wear approved head and foot protection.
• Be alert and aware of your total work environment and any possible overhead objects before you start working.
• Place a safety net or equivalent below overhead work.
• Follow safe work practices when working below overhead activities.
• Notify others of overhead work and any changing job conditions.
• Remember, a welding helmet or goggles restricts vision and may prevent taking the action necessary to avoid falling objects.
• Post areas where failing objects are a hazard.

HOW TO PREVENT FALLING OBJECTS
• Be certain that material being welded or cut is secured from failing.
• Do not permit loose objects near the edge 19 of overhead structures.
• Cover floor and wall openings.
• Use toe boards with guardrails.
• Do not kick, throw, or push anything off overhead structures this includes electrode stubs and scrap metal.
• Do not create failing objects for others—be alert to all your actions.

Analysis

1. Work planning, work authorization, and work execution deficiencies were causal factors in most of these events.
2. Job Hazard analyses often did not address the potential for falling objects.
3. Work planners did not specify that areas below the elevated work should be cleared and roped off to protect personnel from falling objects.
4. Ground-workers became complacent about yellow boundary tape and crossed the boundary to perform work.
5. When elevated work is performed, the elevated workers have the primary responsibility for safety.

Recommended Action

1. Ensure a comprehensive job hazards analysis is performed and documented when planning construction, repair, and D&D activities with elevated work areas. Emphasis should be placed on the control of falling objects and avoidance of working below other work activities.
2. Adequately secure the area below elevated work. Install barricades and post warning signs, and require all personnel to remain clear of the hazard area to protect against falling objects.
3. Review reroofing projects to determine if the building residents’ access should be restricted.
4. Wear hardhats when working in areas where falling object hazards are likely to occur.
5. Maintain control of tools and materials when working at an elevation. Use wrist straps and tool tethers, toeboards, screens, and guardrails to prevent falling objects, and debris netting or canopies to catch falling objects.
6. Adequately secure equipment/tools before raising or lowering.
7. Obey posted warning signs and all boundary tape and/or barriers.
8. Remove debris and remove/secure tools from the scaffold at the end of the shift.
9. Ensure toeboards are installed on scaffolds.