805 Fall Protection in Construction

Types of Falls

Falls are the most frequent cause of fatalities at construction sites and annually account for one of every three construction-related deaths. Each year in the U.S. more than 300 construction workers are killed and more than 10,000 are seriously injured by falls from heights. Falls from roofs are the most frequent cause of fatal falls in construction, and 80% of rooftop falls are fatal.

The most common types of falls observed in the construction industry include:

• Falls from Heights: This refers to falls that occur from elevated surfaces such as ladders, scaffolds, roofs, elevated platforms, or equipment. Working at heights without appropriate fall protection, inadequate safety measures, or improper use of equipment can significantly increase the risk of falls.
• Falls on the Same Level: These falls happen when workers slip, trip, or lose balance on the same level surface due to factors such as uneven flooring, cluttered work areas, obstructions, wet or slippery surfaces, or inadequate lighting. Though they may not involve falls from significant heights, they can still result in injuries.
• Falls into Holes or Openings: Construction sites often have openings, shafts, trenches, or excavations that pose fall hazards. Workers can fall into these openings if they are not adequately secured or protected, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
• Falls from Vehicles or Equipment: Falls can occur while entering or exiting vehicles or equipment, such as trucks, cranes, lifts, or heavy machinery. Failure to use proper access points, lack of stable footing, or inadequate fall protection measures when working on or around vehicles or equipment can contribute to falls.

See Falls, Slips, and Trips in Construction for more information and data on falls in construction.

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