Overhead Work Zone Safety Procedures

Working in overhead work zones presents unique safety challenges. These procedures outline critical safety measures for fall protection, dropped object prevention, and hazard communication to ensure a safe working environment.

Fall Protection

Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS)

When working at heights, employees must use appropriate fall protection. This typically includes a full-body harness, a shock-absorbing lanyard, and a suitable anchor point. Ensure that the PFAS is inspected before each use for any signs of damage or wear.

Anchor Points

Anchor points must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per employee attached, or be designed by a qualified person. Regularly inspect anchor points for any signs of corrosion or weakening.

Fall Clearance

Calculate fall clearance before starting work to ensure that if a fall occurs, the worker will not strike a lower level. Consider the length of the lanyard, the deceleration distance, and the worker's height.

Guardrails and Safety Nets

When feasible, use guardrails or safety nets as a primary means of fall protection. Ensure guardrails are sturdy and meet height requirements. Safety nets must be installed and maintained according to manufacturer's specifications.

Dropped Object Prevention

Tool Lanyards

Secure all tools and equipment used at height with tool lanyards. Lanyards should be attached to both the tool and a secure anchor point on the worker's harness or belt. Select lanyards with appropriate weight ratings for the tools being used.

Toe Boards and Debris Netting

Install toe boards around the perimeter of elevated work areas to prevent tools and materials from falling. Use debris netting to catch any falling objects that may slip past toe boards.

Securing Materials

Properly secure all materials stored at height to prevent them from being dislodged by wind or other factors. Use straps, netting, or other appropriate methods to contain materials.

Housekeeping

Maintain good housekeeping practices in overhead work zones. Remove any unnecessary tools, equipment, or materials that could become a falling hazard.

Hazard Communication

Warning Signs

Post warning signs below overhead work zones to alert personnel to the potential for falling objects. Signs should be clearly visible and legible.

Barricades

Use barricades to restrict access to areas below overhead work zones. Barricades should be highly visible and placed at a safe distance from the work area.

Spotters

When work is being performed above, use spotters to warn personnel on the ground of potential hazards. Spotters should be trained to recognize hazards and communicate effectively.

Pre-Task Briefings

Conduct pre-task briefings to discuss the hazards associated with overhead work and the control measures that will be implemented. Ensure all workers understand the procedures and their roles in maintaining a safe work environment.

General Safety Procedures

Always wear a seat belt while operating the machine to reduce the risk of personal injury. [2]

Unauthorized modifications to machine may impair the safety, machine function and/or affect machine life. [2]

Always use a safety support or brace when working on, under, or around the machine or forks. [2]

Do not adjust or lubricate machine while it is in motion. [2]

Shut off engine and lockout ignition while working on machine unless maintenance instructions require engine running. [2]

Replace all shields and guards after servicing. [2]

Never use the machine as a platform for lifting personal. [2]

Do not enter danger area under or around boom when the forks are off the ground or while engine is running. [2]

Before any work is performed in the danger area the boom must be completely lowered and the forks must be resting on the ground. [2]

Slips and falls can cause serious injury. [1]

When getting on and off machine, always maintain a three point contact with steps and hand rails while facing machine. [1]

Do not use steering wheel or any other controls as handrails. [1]

Never jump on or off machine. [1]

Be careful of slippery conditions on platforms, steps and handrails when getting on and off machine. [1]

Always shut off engine before leaving the operators station. [1]

Fires can cause death or severe personal injury. [1]

Handle fuel with care it is highly flammable. [1]

Do not refuel the machine while smoking or when near open flames or sparks. [1]

Always stop engine before refueling machine. Fill fuel tank outdoors. [1]

Prevent fires by keeping machine clean of trash, grease and debris. Always clean up spilled fuel. [1]