Protecting HVAC Workers from Fall Hazards
Last week was to have been National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction OSHA’s outreach campaign to raise awareness about fall hazards. (This event was postponed until summer due to COVID-19, dates TBA). Falls from elevation is a leading cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for 320 of the 1,008 construction fatalities recorded in 2018. Fall protection is something all HVAC contractors should take very seriously.
There are inherent fall hazards in our industry that HVAC technicians must pay particular attention to. Falling off a roof is one of the most obvious risks that HVAC workers must guard against due to equipment location. Installation and service work frequently involve climbing ladders to reach ductwork, service cooling tower fans, and access attics, where falling through a ceiling is an added risk. Workers should receive ladder safety training and follow appropriate procedures to prevent falls. Stairs pose another hazard, particularly because HVAC technicians are often carrying heavy tools and equipment. Falls from service vehicles are common as well, especially when bulky or heavy materials throw a worker off balance. Other hazards include falling from platforms or into holes in the floor.
OSHA requires that fall protection PPE must be worn and utilized at all times when working at elevations over 6 feet, and workers must be trained in their proper use. Harness should be properly fitted, and the appropriate ANSI-compliant lanyard should be used according to the task at hand. All equipment should be inspected before each use, and any damaged PPE should be immediately repaired or replaced according to OSHA guidelines. Other important considerations include choosing appropriate anchorage points and calculating clearance and capacity.
About E.P. Homiek
E.P. Homiek Sheet Metal Fabrication & HVAC Supply, with two convenient locations in Lakewood, NJ and Union, NJ, provides one- to two-day turnaround on all residential and light commercial ductwork, as well as one- to two-hour emergency fabrication service, rapid delivery, and competitive prices. HVAC parts, supplies, and equipment lines include Goodman, Honeywell, Bryant, Bradford White, Crown Boiler, Daikin, Weil-McLain, Sea Breeze, Generac, Fantech, ZM, A.O. Smith, Hart & Cooley, Malco, Mueller, and many more.
