Falls from elevation continue to be a leading cause of death in the construction industry. However, many of these deaths are preventable.
OSHA’s annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction aims to raise awareness about fall hazards in an effort to prevent fall injuries and fatalities. This year, the initiative is scheduled for May 4-8.
Falls in Construction
Falls from heights are the most common and deadly type of incident on job sites. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 4 out of every 10 deaths in 2024 were caused by slips, trips, and falls.
OSHA cites the following hazards that cause the most fall-related incidents:
- Unprotected sides, wall openings, and floor holes
- Improper scaffold construction
- Unguarded protruding steel rebars
- Misuse of portable ladders
Engaging with employees to educate them on these risks can help reduce fatalities and injuries on construction sites. OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction supports this effort by encouraging communication between employers and employees about fall risks and prevention strategies.
What Is a Safety Stand-Down?
A safety stand-down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Any workplace can hold a stand-down by taking a break to focus on a workplace hazard—in this case, fall hazards and the importance of fall prevention. Employers of companies not exposed to fall hazards can also use this opportunity to have a conversation with employees about the other job hazards they face, protective measures, and the company’s safety policies and goals. It can also be an opportunity for employees to talk to management about fall risks and other job hazards they see.
Who Can Participate?
Anyone who wants to help prevent workplace hazards can participate in the stand-down. In past years, participants included commercial construction companies of all sizes, residential construction contractors, subcontractors and independent contractors, highway construction companies, general industry employers, the U.S. military, other government participants, unions, employers’ trade associations, institutes, employee interest organizations, and safety equipment manufacturers.
How to Conduct a Safety Stand-Down
Companies can conduct a safety stand-down by taking a break for a toolbox talk or another safety activity, such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, or discussing job-specific hazards. Managers are encouraged to plan a stand-down that works best for their workplace at any time.
OSHA offers resources for employers to help with planning a stand-down, including tips for a successful stand-down and highlights from past stand-downs. The agency also hosts a page for events that are free and open to the public to help employers and employees find events in their areas.
Employer Takeaway
The National Safety Stand-Down provides employers with an opportunity to engage workers on job-site hazards. Employers should consider participating in this initiative to educate employees about the risks of falls and to reinforce fall prevention practices, with the overall goal of enhancing worker safety. If they participate, employers can share feedback about their stand-down and download the certificate of participation.
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