812 OSHA Focus Four Hazards

Edges and Openings

Almost all sites have unprotected sides and edges, wall openings, or floor holes at some point during construction. If these sides and openings are not protected at your site, injuries from falls or falling objects may result, ranging from sprains and concussions to death.

Fatalities from falls is, by far, the most common "Fatal Four" cause of death on construction sites.

• Improperly covered or protected floor holes and openings are a common fall hazard. It's easy to step into a hole or opening when carrying something that blocks one's forward view.
• Roofing falls are the leading cause of roofing injuries and fatalities. Roofing, siding and sheet metal work have the highest rate of occupational injuries and illnesses for a non-manufacturing industry.

Steel Erection

Workers involved in steel erection are exposed to fall hazards. According to The Construction Chart Book (CPWR, December, 2007), more ironworkers are killed from falls than workers in any other construction occupation. The rate of work-related deaths among ironworkers is 10 times higher than the construction average. The most frequently cited serious OSHA violations involving steel erection are fall protection, fall hazard training and fall protection for connectors.

In steel erection, workers on walking/working surfaces with unprotected sides or edges above 15 feet must be protected (There are some exceptions for connectors and workers working in controlled decking zones for heights between 15 and 30 feet.

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