The 2010 OSHA most cited violation list shows that fall protection is at the top of the list. Eight of the 10 are fall protection related. One item that raises eye brows is the number of companies that were cited for failing to train their people effectively. Contractors are required to train their workers. With the fall protection deadline of 9/15/2011 just around the corner this information foretells what OSHA is focusing on, residential fall protection compliance.

Fall protection training

It is unbelievable that so many contractors have no idea about the new OSHA Fall Protection mandate compliance date of 9/15/2011. OSHA has not advertised this through channels that would ensure residential contractors are informed.

The background on this is OSHA issued a new directive last December, 2010 replacing the former one from the mid nineties. They said that all residential contractors and trades need to comply with the new fall protection standard. The standard requires that contractors who work 6 feet above lower levels have a written fall protection plan in place by 9/15/2011. The standards says that contractors must use fall arrest systems, guard rails and or safety nets. If you do not use one of the three you must have a site specific plan showing how you will remove fall hazards for your workers.

In addition to the written plan and protective methods OSHA says that contractors must train their workers. Contractors are responsible for their employees and their sub contractors and must make sure the standards are followed on the job.

Please spread the word to other contractors, lumber yards, material suppliers and trades. We are actively putting up trainings as fast as we can to help contractors meet this new requirement by 9/15/2011.

mark the coach

Fall protection training for contractors and trades New England and New York.