Struck-by incidents, also known as falling objects injuries, occur when a moving object, including tools, equipment and debris, strikes a worker. These struck-by hazards, which can roll, fall or swing from heights, are one of the leading causes of injuries and death on job sites, especially construction sites.
With proper safety training, safety protocols and hazard awareness, your team can minimize the risk of struck-by incidents on your jobsite. To get you started, we’ve compiled a few tips you can implement now to keep your team safe on the job.
TIPS FOR PREVENTING STRUCK-BY INCIDENTS
- Require all workers to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) on the job, including safety glasses, hard hats (when head hazards exist), gloves and steel-toe/protective shoes.
- Train workers to announce when large materials, tools and equipment are being raised or lowered on the jobsite and notify their supervisors immediately regarding any jobsite hazards.
- Have workers tie off any loose tools, such as hammers, tape measures, screwdrivers and more, with the use of a tool belt or lanyard to prevent tools from falling.
- Before beginning work, have workers remove all items from their pockets, including pens, tools and phones, so they don’t fall out while working at heights.
- Rope off and barricade any fall or hazard zones on the jobsite.
Struck-by hazards pose a great risk to jobsite workers, but with proper preparation and training, teams can work together to keep each other safe. For more struck-by prevention tips and safety updates for your industry, visit OSHA or the CDC.