Hazard: An employee was seen working on a residential roof truss over 6 feet high without proper fall protection. He had tied a rope to the D-ring on his harness and secured the other end to a roof truss.
Violation: According to OSHA regulation 1926.501(b)(1), any employee on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge that is 6 feet or more above a lower level must be protected from falling by using guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems.
Consequences: Falls from this height can lead to serious injuries such as fractures, lacerations, contusions, concussions, or even death.
Actions Taken: The employee was removed from the roof and provided with a personal fall arrest system (retractable lifeline). Employees will be trained to recognize this hazard and report it to the superintendent or management.
For more information on fall protection at job sites, visit OSHA's Fall Protection Guide.
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