Safe Work Procedure: Dropped Object Prevention Plan for Elevated Work

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the prevention of dropped objects during work performed at heights or elevated positions. It applies to all personnel involved in tasks where there is a risk of objects falling from elevated work areas, including construction, maintenance, and inspection activities.

This procedure is applicable in environments where work is conducted at heights, such as scaffolding, platforms, and elevated machinery. It should be used in conjunction with the organization's fall protection and safety management systems.

2. Definitions

Dropped Object
An object that falls from a height due to gravity, potentially causing injury or damage.

Fall Protection System
A system designed to prevent workers from falling from heights, including guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems.

Tool Lanyard
A device used to secure tools to a worker or structure to prevent them from falling.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained in dropped object prevention.
Conduct regular inspections of work areas for potential hazards.
Ensure compliance with this procedure and related safety regulations.

3.2 Workers

Use all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety devices.
Report any hazards or incidents involving dropped objects immediately.
Follow all safety procedures and instructions provided during training.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Monitor compliance with safety procedures.
Assist in the investigation of incidents involving dropped objects.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falling tools or equipment	Injury to personnel below	Use tool lanyards and secure all equipment [1]
Unsecured materials	Damage to property or injury	Install toeboards and guardrails [1]
Poor housekeeping	Trip hazards leading to falls	Maintain clean and organized work areas [2]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to protect workers from injuries due to dropped objects.

Hard Hat - Protects against head injuries from falling objects.
Safety Glasses - Shields eyes from debris.
Safety Harness - Used in conjunction with fall arrest systems.
Gloves - Provides grip and protection when handling tools.
Steel-Toed Boots - Protects feet from heavy falling objects.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged equipment immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Ensure all equipment and tools are used correctly and maintained in good condition.

Tool Lanyards - Secure tools to prevent them from falling.
Guardrails - Installed around work areas to prevent falls.
Toeboards - Prevent objects from being kicked off platforms.
Safety Nets - Catch falling objects and debris.
Warning Signs - Alert personnel to potential hazards.

Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment to ensure safety and functionality.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers must be trained in dropped object prevention and the use of fall protection systems [3].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss potential hazards, control measures, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is free of unnecessary materials and that all tools and equipment are secured.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assess the Work Area

Identify potential hazards related to dropped objects.
Ensure all safety equipment is in place and functional.

Step 2: Secure Tools and Equipment

Use tool lanyards for all hand tools.
Secure larger equipment with appropriate restraints.

Step 3: Implement Safety Measures

Install guardrails and toeboards around the work area.
Use safety nets where necessary to catch falling objects.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Use Tool Lanyards - Always secure tools to prevent them from falling.
Install Guardrails - Prevent personnel from falling off edges.
Maintain Clean Work Areas - Reduce the risk of tripping and falling.
Conduct Regular Inspections - Identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Use Warning Signs - Alert personnel to areas with potential falling object hazards.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the area if a significant object falls.
Administer first aid if necessary and contact emergency services.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Falling Object Incident - Secure the area and report the incident immediately.
Injury from Falling Object - Provide first aid and seek medical attention.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents involving dropped objects to a supervisor immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

[Reference 1]
[Reference 2]
[Reference 3]

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]