Being struck by falling objects is a leading cause of construction fatalities. Even a small object, falling from a height, can cause serious or fatal injuries.
Ted's Story
Ted was picking up debris at a construction site. A forklift was lifting a pile of lumber to the second floor next to him. The lumber was not secure and fell from the forklift. One board struck Ted in the head. He was wearing a hard hat, but the incident left him with a concussion.
Remember This:
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Do not hoist loads or allow them to pass over people.
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Secure loads before lifting them by forklifts.
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Secure all tools in elevated work areas if they are close to leading edges.
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Always wear a hard hat.
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Ask your employer to place toe boards on all scaffolding and open elevations to protect workers below from falling materials.
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Stack materials neatly to keep them from toppling over.