Fall protection is essential for any walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge that is 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above a lower level [1]. Acceptable methods of fall protection include guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems 1, 6. Employers must determine if walking/working surfaces have the strength and structural integrity to support employees safely 6, 19.

Here are some specific fall protection requirements:

• Guardrail Systems: These should be installed on all open sides and ends of platforms 2, 10. The top edge height of toprails on supported scaffolds should be between 38 inches (0.97 m) and 45 inches (1.2 m) above the platform surface for scaffolds manufactured or placed in service after January 1, 2000 2, 10. For scaffolds manufactured and placed in service before January 1, 2000, and on all suspended scaffolds where both a guardrail and a personal fall arrest system are required, the top edge height should be between 36 inches (0.9 m) and 45 inches (1.2 m) 2, 10.
• Personal Fall Arrest Systems: When using personal fall arrest systems on scaffolds, attach the lanyard to a vertical lifeline, horizontal lifeline, or scaffold structural member 2, 4. Vertical lifelines should be fastened to a fixed safe point of anchorage, independent of the scaffold, and protected from sharp edges and abrasion 2, 4. Horizontal lifelines should be secured to two or more structural members of the scaffold 2, 4.
• Falling Objects: When employees are exposed to falling objects, employers must ensure each employee wears a hard hat and implement measures such as erecting toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems to prevent objects from falling from higher levels 1, 18.

Remember, fall arrest system components should be used in fall restraint systems and conform to specific criteria [2]. Anchorages for a fall restraint system should be capable of supporting at least 3,000 lbs (4.5 kN) per employee attached [2]. Personal fall arrest systems should be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage, and other deterioration, and defective components should be removed from service [3].