Dropped objects

To prevent injuries and damage from dropped objects, it's crucial to implement comprehensive safety procedures. These procedures involve risk assessment, use of protective measures, and continuous monitoring of the work environment.

Key strategies for falling object prevention include:

• Use of Guardrails and Barriers: Install guardrails around openings and edges to prevent objects from falling.
• Toe Boards: Install toe boards or bumpers, not less than six inches thick and six inches high, at each chute opening where material is dumped from mechanical equipment or wheelbarrows.
• Debris Chutes: When dropping materials from a height of more than 20 feet outside the building, use enclosed chutes. Ensure these chutes are designed for free flow of material and have gates at the discharge end controlled by a qualified person.
• Barricades and Warning Signs: When dropping debris through holes in the floor without chutes, completely enclose the area with barricades at least 42 inches high and 6 feet back from the opening. Post warning signs at each level to alert workers to the hazard of falling materials.
• Overhead Protection: On high-lift trucks, use an overhead guard capable of supporting a uniformly distributed static load.
• Equipment Inspection: Regularly check protective related guards, covers, windows, and mirrors to ensure they are not damaged and are secure prior to operation.
• Securing Materials: Securely cover all floor openings not used as material drops with material substantial enough to support any imposed load, preventing accidental movement.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Head Protection: Wear hard hats that meet ANSI standards to protect against head injuries from falling objects.
• Foot Protection: Use safety shoes or boots with impact protection when handling materials that could be dropped, and puncture protection where sharp objects could cause foot injuries.
• Eye Protection: Use eye protection to safeguard against flying fragments or particles when using tools.

Safe Work Practices:

• Housekeeping: Remove all scrap lumber, waste material, and rubbish from the immediate work area as work progresses.
• Load Limits: Ensure that the load does not exceed the limits of the top guard.
• Demolition Safety: During demolition, remove hazards from fragmentation of glass. Protect employees from falling through wall openings by providing protection to a height of approximately 42 inches.

By adhering to these procedures, employers can significantly reduce the risk of dropped objects and create a safer work environment.