Working at Height - Falling Objects
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This document discusses the hazards of working at heights and falling objects. It provides facts about the speed and impact of solid objects when dropped from heights of 20m, 35m and 70m. Falling objects are a major hazard on construction sites and can cause serious injuries even from seemingly innocent dropped tools. To reduce the risk of falling objects, the document recommends securing loads and tools, maintaining good housekeeping, using physical barriers below work areas, monitoring control effectiveness, and using personal protective equipment.
Working at Height - Falling Objects
- 1. Working at Height Falling Objects Compiled by Rudi Nieuwoudt
- 2. Working at Heights Falling Objects FACT! A solid object dropped from 20m will hit the ground in 2 seconds at a speed of 72 km/h per hour. FACT! The same object dropped from 35 meters will hit the ground in 3 seconds at a speed of 107 km/h. FACT! A 60 gram object dropped from 70 meters has the potential to penetrate a hardhat.
- 3. Working at Heights Falling Objects Falling objects are a major hazard on many construction sites. Something as seemingly innocent as a wrench, piece of rebar or screwdriver lying on a scaffold platform can cause serious injuries. By following 6 simple steps, you will be able to significantly reduce the chances of an object falling and injuring someone or damaging equipment.
- 4. Working at Heights Provide Warning This would include Risk Assessments, Safe Work Procedures, DSTI’s, Permits, Communication and interfacing with affected parties. Warning signs. Secure Loads/Tools/Equipment Use Tool Lanyards, Large power tools should be secured to the structure when there is any possibility of it falling. Don’t use platforms as long-term stacking and storage areas. Place tools in tool bags when not in use. Housekeeping Tools and debris are one of the main causes of falling objects. When you are done using a tool, don’t let it lie around on a platform. Place it in a tool bag. Keep your area clean and tidy. Physical Barriers This would include, toe boards, guard rails, nets to catch possible objects that have fallen, barricading the area below to keep people out etc. Monitoring of Control Effectiveness Continuously monitoring the effectiveness of the controls and make changes as necessary. Personal Protective Equipment Always as a last resort. Hard Hat/Steel toe Safety boots.