OSHA has launched a new National Emphasis Program (NEP) to combat falls in the workplace—and for good reason, considering that in 2020, 805 workers died from falls and 211,640 were injured badly enough to require days off from work. OSHA defines NEPs as “temporary programs that focus OSHA's resources on particular hazards and high-hazard industries.”
As a small business owner, it’s your responsibility to keep your crews safe from fall hazards. Thanks to this latest guidance, the protocols are clear and address fall hazards across multiple industries. Let’s dig into some of the details from this latest NEP.
The Purpose: Fall Hazard Identification and Education
According to OSHA’s May 1, 2023, press release, “The program establishes guidance for locating and inspecting fall hazards and allows OSHA compliance safety and health officers to open inspections whenever they observe someone working at height. An outreach component of the program will focus on educating employers about effective ways to keep their workers safe. If a compliance officer determines an inspection is not necessary after entering a worksite and observing work activities, they will provide outreach on fall protection and leave the site.”
What State Plans Need to Do
Within 60 days from the launch of the program, State Plans should have notified OSHA if they were adopting the NEP or if they have procedures identical to or as effective already in place. State Plans that will implement the program must do so within 60 days. This new NEP takes precedence over any regional or local program that is substantially similar. These regional or local programs should be phased out within 90 days. If the regional or local programs have additional elements in place, those programs can continue.
Falls in the workplace are preventable with proper training and personal protective equipment. Make sure to check out this latest guidance from OSHA and equip your crew with the best fall protection gear from Zoro.com.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.