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.
Do not hoist loads or allow them to pass over people.
Secure loads before lifting them by forklifts.
Secure all tools in elevated work areas if they are close to leading edges.
Always wear a hard hat.
Ask your employer to place toe boards on all scaffolding and open elevations to protect workers below from falling materials.
Stack materials neatly to keep them from toppling over.