Fall Protection Manual

(EHS Program Manual 7.9)

1.0 Overview
A fall from a standard working height can exert thousands of pounds of force on an individual. The impact from a fall can
have serious and often fatal consequences. Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) at Weill Cornell Medicine (WCM)
has developed this Fall Protection Program to promote a safe work environment for anyone working at heights at WCM.
2.0 Table of Contents
3.0 Objectives .............................................................................................................................................................. 2
4.0 Applicability ........................................................................................................................................................... 2
5.0 Responsibilities ..................................................................................................................................................... 2
5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (EHS) ............................................................................................... 2
5.2 ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE (E&M) ........................................................................................................ 2
5.3 DEPARTMENTS WITH EMPLOYEES WHO WORK FROM HEIGHTS................................................................. 3
5.4 CONTRACTORS .................................................................................................................................................... 3
5.5 PROGRAMMATIC ROLES ..................................................................................................................................... 3
5.5.1 Worker ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3
5.5.2 Competent Person .................................................................................................................................................. 3
5.5.3 Qualified Person ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
6.0 Fall Hazard Identification...................................................................................................................................... 4
6.1 FALL HAZARD RECOGNITION ............................................................................................................................. 4
6.2 HAZARD EVALUATION.......................................................................................................................................... 4
6.2.1 Fall Hazard Flow Chart ........................................................................................................................................... 5
7.0 Walking and Working Surfaces ........................................................................................................................... 6
7.1 GUARDRAILS ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
7.1.1 Requirements for Guardrail Systems ...................................................................................................................... 6
7.1.2 Inspections and Addressing Defficiencies .............................................................................................................. 6
8.0 Skylights ................................................................................................................................................................ 6
8.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR SKYLIGHT GUARDING ................................................................................................... 6
9.0 Personal Fall Arrest Systems .............................................................................................................................. 6
9.1 LANYARDS ............................................................................................................................................................. 7
9.2 LIFELINES .............................................................................................................................................................. 7
9.3 ANCHORAGE POINTS........................................................................................................................................... 7
9.4 FALL PROTECTION HARNESSES ........................................................................................................................ 8
10.0 Ladders .................................................................................................................................................................. 8
10.1 GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR LADDER SET-UP AND SELECTION ................................................................... 8
10.2 A-FRAME LADDERS .............................................................................................................................................. 8
10.3 EXTENSION LADDERS ......................................................................................................................................... 9
10.4 FIXED LADDERS, SHIP’S LADDERS, AND STAIRS ............................................................................................ 9
11.0 Scaffolds ................................................................................................................................................................ 9
11.1 SCAFFOLD SELECTION........................................................................................................................................ 9
11.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................................... 10
11.3 INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................................. 10
12.0 Aerial Lifts ............................................................................................................................................................ 11

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12.1 GENERAL SAFE WORK PRACTICES ................................................................................................................. 11

12.2 INSPECTIONS ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
12.3 LIFT SET-UP ......................................................................................................................................................... 11
13.0 Training ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
13.1 ANNUAL TRAINING ............................................................................................................................................. 12
13.2 EQUIPMENT-SPECIFIC TRAINING ..................................................................................................................... 12
13.3 AERIAL LIFT TRAINING ....................................................................................................................................... 12
13.3.1 Initial Operator Training ......................................................................................................................................... 12
13.3.2 Refresher Training ................................................................................................................................................ 12
13.3.3 Aerial Lift Training Records ................................................................................................................................... 12
13.4 COMPETENT PERSON TRAINING ..................................................................................................................... 12
14.0 Record Retention, Availability, and Revisions................................................................................................. 13
14.1 EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION, TESTING, AND INSPECTION RECORDS ........................................................ 13
14.2 TRAINING RECORDS .......................................................................................................................................... 13
14.3 REVISIONS ........................................................................................................................................................... 13
15.0 References ........................................................................................................................................................... 15

3.0 Objectives
This program aims to prevent exposure to fall hazards and ensure compliance with applicable regulatory
requirements. It is designed to guide and protect the WCM community from fall hazards, and ensure that any work
performed at heights is done safely by workers who are appropriately trained and provided with safe work procedures,
personal protective equipment, and other safety controls.

4.0 Applicability
The Fall Protection program applies to anyone who may be working at heights at WCM; including all students, employees,
and volunteers working in laboratory, clinical, and administrative/service work environments. Working at heights
involves any work that would present a potential fall of greater than four feet.
This program does not apply to construction work at WCM. All construction work must meet applicable OSHA and
regulatory guidelines as dictated by the WCM EHS Construction Safety Program.

5.0 Responsibilities

5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (EHS)

EHS duties include:
 Assist the WCM community in the implementation of this program.
 Provide or coordinate general training for groups on the content of this program, as requested.
 Conduct or assist in training for competent persons.
 Retain all training records.
 Review and update this written program periodically.
 Evaluate work being performed and determine compliance with this program.
 Evaluate the overall effectiveness of this program periodically.

5.2 ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE (E&M)

E&M obligations include:
 Assist employees in the implementation of safe work practices addressed in this program.

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 Ensure that all employees comply with ALL provisions of the Fall Protection Program.
 Designate Competent Persons for Fall Protection and ensure they receive the proper training.
 Confirm that employees receive training appropriate to their assigned tasks.
 Verify that employees receive, inspect, and use appropriate protective equipment.

5.3 DEPARTMENTS WITH EMPLOYEES WHO WORK FROM HEIGHTS

Departments and Supervisors with employees who work from heights are required to:
 Assist employees in the implementation of safe work practices addressed in this program.
 Verify that all employees comply with ALL provisions of the Fall Protection Program.
 Designate Competent Persons for Fall Protection and ensure they receive the appropriate training.
 Confirm that employees receive training appropriate to their assigned tasks.
 Ensure that employees receive, inspect, and use appropriate protective equipment.

5.4 CONTRACTORS
Contractors must:
 Have a fall protection plan in place, where applicable, and provide it to EHS upon request.
 Provide appropriate fall protection for work where required.
 Communicate with EHS and project supervisors regarding fall protection requirements.
 Review the EHS Contractor Safety Manual and adhere to its requirements, as well as the requirements of other
applicable EHS manuals.
 Provide employees with appropriate training for their assigned tasks.
 Verify that employees receive, inspect, and use appropriate protective equipment.

5.5 PROGRAMMATIC ROLES

This Fall Protection program also designates programmatic roles for teams of WCM employees or contractors whose
work involves exposure to potential fall hazards. These roles have specific responsibilities associated with fall protection.
This section details the responsibilities associated with each of these roles.

5.5.1 Worker
 Comply with the Fall Protection Program.
 Complete all fall protection training as required.
 Request further instruction if unclear or unsure how to properly use fall protection devices.
 Conduct assigned tasks in a safe manner.
 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
 Report any unsafe work conditions and any job-related injuries to their supervisor immediately.

5.5.2 Competent Person

 Have the experience and knowledge to recognize fall hazards.
 Correct all unsafe conditions.
 Train employees in the proper use of fall protection.
 Audit work areas regularly to ensure appropriate use of fall protection equipment.
 Correct unsafe conditions.
 Shut down work until hazardous conditions are corrected.

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 Take damaged fall protection equipment out of service, and replace with functioning equipment.

5.5.3 Qualified Person

 Maintain professional certifications as required by regulatory requirements.
 Have experience in applicable regulatory requirements.
 Design all fall protection systems in accordance with regulatory requirements.
 Test all fall protection systems (such as anchorages) as mandated by regulatory and accepted consensus standards.
 Produce appropriate regulatory documentation for all new fall protection installations.

6.0 Fall Hazard Identification

6.1 FALL HAZARD RECOGNITION

Any working height greater than 4 feet is considered a fall hazard, and employees must be protected. (For
construction, the height is 6 feet).
Potential fall hazards include, but are not limited to:
 Roofs
 Floor Openings
 Shafts
 Catwalks
 Work Platforms
 Pits

6.2 HAZARD EVALUATION

This program has been designed to evaluate potential fall hazards through a logical hazard assessment process. When a
work task or work area presents a potential fall hazard; the supervisor or competent person must evaluate these potential
hazards to determine which of the following courses of action can be taken in each situation.
1. Elimination of Fall Hazards: Fall hazard elimination is the first choice when presented with a fall hazard. The
elimination of a fall hazard requires an assessment of the workplace and the work to be performed.
2. Prevention of Fall Hazards: Fall hazard prevention is utilized when a fall hazard cannot be eliminated from a
workplace or the work task. Prevention involves making changes to the workplace or worker’s behavior to prevent
falls. Fall hazard prevention involves the use of stairs, guardrails, work platforms, or other means of passive fall
protection. It also includes the use of A-Frame ladders, man lifts, scissor lifts, or other lifts which provide a steady,
guarded work platform and reduce potential fall distances and unguarded hazards.
3. Control of Fall Hazards: Control of fall hazards may only be used after it has been determined that a specific
hazard cannot be eliminated or prevented. Control must be the last choice in fall hazard assessment. Fall hazard
control is accomplished through the use of assorted fall protection equipment. This equipment, used to control the
risk of a fall as well as limit fall distance and the forces associated with a fall, may include one or more of: full
body harnesses, lanyards, fall arrest systems, lifelines, and anchorage points. Controlling fall hazards requires
significant planning and training to be implemented correctly.
A Competent Person must assess all fall hazards before employees are permitted to work. The Competent Person
must review fall protection to ensure it is appropriate and set up and installed properly.
The flow chart on the following page can be used by the Competent Person to assess fall hazards.

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6.2.1 Fall Hazard Flow Chart

Working from
heights > 4 ft.

Can the fall hazard be

eliminated and the
work be conducted?

Yes No

Can the fall hazard be prevented by working

Eliminate fall hazard
from work platforms with guardrails, or other
and perform passive fall protection, or by using equipment
necessary work which provides a steady work platform (e.g.
A-Frame ladders, man lifts, or scissor lifts)?

Yes No

Control fall hazard by

Prevent the fall hazard by
Implementing Personal Fall
using appropriate methods
Protection System (e.g.,
and perform necessary
Personal Fall Arrest
work
System)

Competent Person assesses

fall hazards and selects
appropriate Fall Protection

Employee Trained
 EHS Fall Protection
Training
 Training on Fall
Protection
System(s)

Utilize Fall
Protection
System(s) and
perform work

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7.0 Walking and Working Surfaces

7.1 GUARDRAILS

7.1.1 Requirements for Guardrail Systems

All guardrail systems must meet the following criteria:
 The top rail or top of guardrail system must be 42 inches (plus or minus 3 inches) above the walking/working surface.
 Midrails or intermediate rails must be installed at a height midway between the top edge of the top rail and the
walking/working surface when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches high.
 A toe board must be installed at the walking/working surface (floor, platform, ramp, etc.) and must extend at least 4
inches in height above the surface.
 All parts of the guardrail system must be capable of withstanding a force of at least 200 pounds applied within two
inches of the top edge, in any outward or downward direction at any point along the top edge.

7.1.2 Inspections and Addressing Deficiencies

 Workers must visually inspect guardrail systems any time they access them.
 Any deficiencies found in guardrail systems must be reported to a Competent Person and/or E&M Supervisor
immediately. Signs and/or danger tape must be affixed to these systems immediately, and employees must be
prohibited from accessing or working from these areas without additional fall protection systems (e.g., Personal Fall
Arrest Systems) until necessary repairs are made.

8.0 Skylights

8.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR SKYLIGHT GUARDING

Skylights on all roofs that will be accessed must be protected by adequate fall protection using one or more of the
following methods.
 A fixed guardrail system meeting the requirements of Section 7.0 must be installed.
 A screen must be installed over the skylight. The screen must be capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds
applied perpendicularly at any one area on the screen.
 The skylight must be constructed of plastic and able to support the 200-pound load as described above.

9.0 Personal Fall Arrest Systems Requirements

A Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) consists of a full body harness, lanyard, connectors, and anchorage. This
system may also include deceleration devices, a self-retracting lifeline, or a combination of devices.
A Personal Fall Arrest System must meet the following general requirements:
 The system must meet or exceed all requirements of applicable American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Fall
Protection standards, and have the ANSI-compliant labeling.
 It must be set up so that an employee cannot free fall more than 6-feet or make contact with any lower level.
 It must limit the maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800 pounds.
 It must be set up so that each employee is attached to a separate lifeline or lanyard.

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9.1 LANYARDS
The following minimum requirements must be met when using a lanyard as part of a fall arrest system:
 Meet or exceed all requirements of applicable ANSI standards.
 Have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds.
 Be equipped with an approved shock absorber.
 Be attached to an approved engineered anchorage point.
 Be free from knots.
 Be protected against cuts or abrasions.
 It may not be wrapped around an anchorage and connected to itself.
 Lanyards must be inspected before every use and as required by
manufacturer recommendations. Any damaged or defective equipment
must be removed from service immediately, and an Out of Service tag must be placed on the equipment in accordance
with the EHS Accident Prevention Tag Update.

9.2 LIFELINES
The following minimum requirements must be met for all lifelines (self-retracting, vertical,
horizontal, etc.):
 The lifeline must attach to an appropriate anchorage.
 The lifeline must be set up in a way that prevents the individual from becoming
entangled in it.
 It must not be exposed to corrosive materials, acids, caustics, or excessive heat.
 Self-retracting lifelines must attach to the back “D” ring of a harness.
 Self-retracting lifelines must not be lengthened by attaching lanyards or other
components.
 Lifelines must be inspected before every use and as required by manufacturer
recommendations. Any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from
service immediately, and an Out of Service tag must be placed on the equipment in
accordance with the EHS Accident Prevention Tag Update.

9.3 ANCHORAGE POINTS

The following minimum requirements must be met for all anchorage points:
 The anchorage point must be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and serve no
other function unless rated to do so.
 It must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per employee.
 It must be engineered and designed specifically as anchorage for a Personal Fall Arrest System.
 It must be designed and installed by a Qualified Person.
 The competent person must maintain documentation displaying the rating and installation details for all anchorage
points.
 Anchorage points must be inspected before every use and as required by manufacturer recommendations. Any
damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service immediately, and an Out of Service tag must be placed
on the equipment in accordance with the EHS Accident Prevention Tag Update.
Material rigging equipment may not be used as anchorage points.

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9.4 FALL PROTECTION HARNESSES

The following minimum requirements must be met for all fall protection harnesses.
 Full-body harnesses must be used for fall protection.
 Harnesses must be National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-
approved.
 Harnesses may only be used for employee protection, and may not be used to hoist
materials.
 Harnesses must be inspected before every use and as required by manufacturer
recommendations. Any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service
immediately, and an Out of Service tag must be placed on the equipment in accordance
with the EHS Accident Prevention Tag Update.
The use of body belts is prohibited.

10.0 Ladders

10.1 GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR LADDER SET-UP AND SELECTION

The following requirements must be met when choosing and installing a ladder:
 Inspect all ladders for structural integrity before use. Discard, tag, or professionally repair all broken ladders before
use, and ensure all ladders that are not structurally sound are removed from service.
 All ladders must have parallel and uniformly spaced rungs free of any slip hazards or cracks.
 Foldout ladders must have a metal spreader or a locking device to hold the ladder open. This mechanism must be fully
engaged when in use.
 The ladder must be placed on a level and stable surface.
 Ladders must be secured or blocked off when placed in high traffic areas (doorways, active passageways,
driveways, active construction sites, etc.).

10.2 A-FRAME LADDERS

The following requirements must be met when working with an A-frame ladder:
 The ladder must be high enough so that the user is never to stand on the top two
steps, or be closer than 2 feet from the top of the ladder. For instance, if the individual
is working at a height of 8 feet, a 5-foot (or more) step ladder may be used at the correct
height.
 Inspect all ladders for structural integrity before use. Discard, tag, or professionally
repair all broken ladders before use.
 Maintain three points of contact with the ladder or a stable surface at all times.
 Always face forward and have at least one hand grasped on the ladder when climbing up
or down.
 Keep ladders free of oils, grease, and other slipping hazards.
 Do not shift, move or extend a ladder while in use.
 Do not load ladder beyond the maximum intended load or manufacturer’s rated capacity.
Note: All step ladders must meet the requirements of this section on A-Frame ladders.

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10.3 EXTENSION LADDERS

The following requirements must be met when working with an extension ladder:
 The user is never allowed to use the top 3 rungs, or be closer than 3 feet from the top of
the ladder. This means that a typical worker must have an effective working height 2 feet
above the top of the extension ladder. Users should ensure that the ladder is tall enough for
this to be possible.
 Inspect all ladders for structural integrity before use. Discard, tag, or professionally repair
all broken ladders before use.
 Maintain three points of contact with the ladder or a stable surface at all times.
 Never fasten two ladders together to provide a longer section unless both ladders are
specifically designed to do so.
 Portable non-self-supporting ladders use the four to one rule. For every 4 feet of height, the
ladder must move out 1 foot from the wall.
 Always face forward and have at least one hand grasped on the ladder when climbing up or
down.
 Keep ladders free of oils, grease, and other slipping hazards.
 Do not shift, move or extend a ladder while in use.
 Do not load a ladder beyond the maximum intended load or manufacturer’s rated capacity

10.4 FIXED LADDERS, SHIP LADDERS, AND STAIRS

The following requirements must be met when working with fixed ladders, ship ladders, and stairs:
 Inspect all ladders for structural integrity before use. Discard, tag, or professionally repair all
broken ladders before use.
 Maintain three points of contact with the ladder or a stable surface at all times.
 Always face forward and have at least one hand grasped on the ladder when climbing up or down
(including when descending ship ladders).
 Keep ladders free of oils, grease, and other slipping hazards.

11.0 Scaffolds

11.1 SCAFFOLD SELECTION

The Competent Person must select the proper scaffold for the task, based on the type of work to be conducted
and the working load to be supported.
 Light-duty scaffolds are intended for workers and tools only. The scaffold must support a working load of 25 pounds per
square foot.
 Medium-duty scaffolds are intended for workers, tools, and construction materials. The scaffold must support a working
load of 50 pounds per square foot.
 Heavy-duty scaffolds are intended for workers, tools, stored materials, and construction materials. The scaffold must
support a working load of 75 pounds per square foot.
 All scaffolds must be capable of supporting at least four times the design load.

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11.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

 Fall protection is required for all scaffold use 6 feet or more above a lower level.
 The space between adjacent units of scaffolds, or between the platform and uprights, shall be no more than one inch
wide; unless it is demonstrated that a wider space is absolutely necessary.
 All scaffolds where work is conducted more than 6 feet in height must have 4-inch toe boards.
 A scaffold shall not be moved while someone is on it.
 Follow all manufacturer's guidelines and special warnings if the scaffold is commercially produced.
 The maximum work level height shall not exceed 4 times the least base dimension of the scaffold. Example: a four-foot
by six-foot scaffold cannot exceed sixteen feet in height at the work platform level.
 The minimum working platform width is two feet.
 The supporting structure for the scaffold must have rigid braces, using adequate cross bracing or diagonal bracing with
rigid platforms at each work level. Each platform, when abutted to create a long platform, must have independent
support. Overlapping of individual platforms to extend the platform length may only occur over supports.
 Working platforms should have a non-slip surface.
 Scaffolds should be used only on an even surface.
 The platform surface must be kept clear of extraneous tools and materials.
 The work level platform shall be wood, aluminum, plywood planking, steel, or expanded metal for the full width of the
scaffold; except for necessary protected openings.
 Platforms may not extend more than 18 inches over their support at the ends.
 The distance between scaffolds and electrical power lines must be the minimum specified by 29 CFR 1926.451
paragraph (f)(6), unless necessary to perform work. If scaffolds need to be closer to the lines, the utility company
must be notified and must either de-energize, relocate, or provide additional protective coverings for the lines.
 Access to scaffolds must be via OSHA-approved ladders or ramps. Cross braces may not be used as a means of
access.
For requirements regarding suspension scaffolds or other specialized scaffold systems, consult 29 CFR Subpart L
1926.451 – General Requirements, or 1926.452 – Additional requirements applicable to specific types of scaffolds.

11.3 INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE

An inspection must be conducted prior to the use of any scaffold, and then daily during usage of the scaffold.
 Carefully examine the scaffold for broken or missing cross bracing, broken supporting structure, working platform, and
other damaged parts. In addition, all walking and working surfaces must be free of grease, oil, paint, or other slippery
substances.
 The scaffold should be equipped with positive wheel-lock casters that are secured in place, if applicable.
 The joint between the working platform and supporting structure must be tight, and all hardware and fittings should be
attached firmly. Movable parts should operate freely without binding or undue play.
 All wood parts must be free of sharp edges and splinters. Visually inspect the scaffold to be free of shakes, warping,
decay, or other irregularities. Metal parts must be free of sharp edges, burrs, corrosion, or other evidence of structural
weakening or damage. Inspect for dents or bends in supporting structure, cross braces, and walking/working surfaces.
 Check all working platform-to-support structure connections, hardware connections, and rivets. If a scaffold tips over,
inspect the scaffold for damage before reinstalling the scaffold and continuing work.
 Damaged scaffolds must be withdrawn from service and either repaired or destroyed. When a defect or unsafe
condition is found, personnel shall tag or mark the scaffold so that it will not be used until corrective action is taken.

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 Defective or unsafe situations shall be reported to the supervisor. Field repairs and the fabrication of improvised
scaffolds are prohibited.

12.0 Aerial Lifts

12.1 GENERAL SAFE WORK PRACTICES

The following requirements must be met when working with aerial lifts:
 All aerial lifts are subject to the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A92.2-1969, “Vehicle
Mounted Elevating and Rotating Work Platforms”.
 Operators shall not wear any loose clothing or any accessory that can catch in moving parts.
 Before machine is started, the operator must walk completely around the machine to ensure everyone and
everything is clear of the machine.
 Prior to using aerial/scissor lifts, lift controls must be tested to ensure they are in safe working condition.
 Modifications and additions that may affect the capacity or safe operation of an aerial/scissor lift are strictly
prohibited without the manufacturer’s written approval. Capacity, operation, and maintenance instruction markings
will be changed as necessary if the manufacturer approves a modification.
 The insulated portion (if applicable) of an aerial/scissor lift shall not be altered in any manner that might reduce its
insulating value.
 Any signs, plates, or decals which are missing or illegible must be replaced.
 If the aerial/scissor lift becomes disabled or is found to be in a condition rendering it unsafe to use, an “Out Of Service”
tag or equivalent shall be attached to the controls inside the platform in a conspicuous location.
 Aerial/scissor lifts with reported deficiencies shall not be operated until repairs are made and the equipment is
authorized for use by EHS.
 Operators must report all accidents, regardless of fault and severity, to their Supervisor.

12.2 INSPECTIONS
Prior to the operation of an aerial lift, an inspection of the lift must be completed. This applies at the beginning of
every work period, and whenever a new equipment operator takes control of the aerial lift. Any safety defects (such as
but not limited to hydraulic fluid leaks; defective brakes, steering, lights, or horn; or missing fire extinguisher,
lights, seat belt, or back-up alarm) must be reported for immediate repair. An Out of Service tag must be placed on
the equipment as detailed in the EHS Accident Prevention Tag Update.
Manufacturers require regular inspections of lifts by a Qualified Person. Ensure all lift inspections are conducted in the
required timeframe and by a Qualified Person.
If a lift is found to be out of compliance, it must be placed out of service until required inspections are completed.

12.3 LIFT SET-UP

 Wind conditions must be considered prior to setting up the lift. Follow the manufacturer’s instruction regarding
operation in windy conditions.
 As a general rule, aerial lifts shall not be operated in winds exceeding 25mph, although this can vary depending on the
equipment model:
 At 20mph wind speeds or anticipated gusts, lifts will be lowered to a maximum height of 20 feet.
 At 25mph wind speeds or anticipated gusts, lifts will be grounded.
 If at any time, staff feels unsafe in lifts, they may make the decision, without penalty, to ground the
lift and review conditions with their supervisor.

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 Guardrails must be installed, and access gates or openings must be closed before raising the platform.
 Platform load limits specified by the manufacturer shall not be exceeded.
 Consideration shall be given to the protection of bystanders via barricading, having another employee keep bystanders
at a safe distance, or other means.
 Aerial lifts must be operated from stable surfaces, and shall not be operated from trucks, scaffolds, or similar
equipment.

13.0 Training

13.1 ANNUAL TRAINING

Annual training is required for all employees potentially exposed to fall hazards as part of their normal work
activities. The training will detail recognition of hazards, appropriate controls, and fall protection equipment.

13.2 EQUIPMENT-SPECIFIC TRAINING

All employees working with personal fall arrest systems are required to have training on the specific system in
use in their work area before they begin work with this system. A Competent Person must provide this equipment-
specific training.

13.3 AERIAL LIFT TRAINING

All employees working with or potentially working with aerial or scissor lift systems as part of their normal work
activities are required to have annual training on the specific equipment in use. A Qualified Person must provide
this equipment-specific training.

13.3.1 Initial Operator Training

Before operation of an aerial lift at WCM, prospective operators must pass a two-part training session. The initial portion
of the training reviews safe work practices, hazards of working from and operating lifts, and safe operation for each model
lift the operator will use. The second portion of the training involves a practical review of lift controls and operations, and a
test to ensure the operator is competent in using the lift.
If new equipment is deployed in the work area, training in the operation of the new equipment must be given to employees
using that equipment.

13.3.2 Refresher Training

All aerial lift operators must attend annual refresher training. This training will review safe work practices and the
hazards associated with working from and operating aerial lifts.

13.3.3 Aerial Lift Training Records

Training records for aerial lift operators will be distributed to supervisors following the completion of training. Supervisors
must review these records before allowing an employee to operate a lift.

13.4 COMPETENT PERSON TRAINING

An annual Competent Person training is required for all employees fulfilling the role of Competent Person for fall
protection.
The training must include, but is not limited to, the following topics:
 The nature of fall hazards in the work area.

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 The correct procedure for set-up, maintenance, disassembling, and inspecting, the use of fall protection systems.
 The use and operation of guardrail systems, personal fall protection systems, and other protection used on campus.
 The correct procedures for the handling and storage of equipment and material, and the erection of overhead
protection.
 The role of employees in this Fall Protection Program.
 The Appropriate OSHA standards.

14.0 Record Retention, Availability, and Revisions

14.1 EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION, TESTING, AND INSPECTION RECORDS

Competent Persons must maintain records associated with all personal fall arrest systems and equipment. This
includes all installation documentation, testing, and inspection records. All required records must be available for review
upon request.

14.2 TRAINING RECORDS

EHS will maintain all training records for the annual fall protection training. The individual departments must
maintain all other training records. All training records must be available for review upon request.

14.3 REVISIONS
EHS will conduct an annual review of the Fall Protection Program. Program revisions will be made, should any
deficiencies be identified during the annual review. Any deficiencies brought to the attention of EHS will be reviewed, and
the necessary changes will be implemented in a timely fashion.

15.0 Definitions
 Anchorage: a secure point of attachment for equipment such as lifelines, lanyards, deceleration devices, and rope
descent systems.
 Arresting Force: the amount of force that the fall protection system and the person attached to the system will
experience as generated by the deceleration device.
 Authorized: employee who the employer assigns to perform a specific type of duty, or allows in a specific location or
area.
 Cage: an enclosure mounted on the side rails of a fixed ladder or fastened to a structure behind the fixed ladder that is
designed to surround the climbing space of the ladder. A cage also is called a "cage guard" or "basket guard."
 Carrier: the track of a ladder safety system that consists of a flexible cable or rigid rail attached to the fixed ladder or
immediately adjacent to it.
 Combination ladder: a portable ladder that can be used as a stepladder, extension ladder, trestle ladder, or stairway
ladder. The components of a combination ladder also may be used separately as a single ladder.
 Equivalent: alternative designs, equipment, materials, or methods that the employer can demonstrate will provide an
equal or greater degree of safety for employees compared to the designs, equipment, materials, or methods specified
in this subpart.
 Extension ladder: a non-self-supporting portable ladder that is adjustable in length.
 Failure: a load refusal, breakage, or separation of component parts. A load refusal is the point at which the ultimate
strength of a component or object is exceeded.
 Fall hazard: any condition on a walking-working surface that exposes an employee to a risk of harm from a fall on the
same level or to a lower level.

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 Fall protection: any equipment, device, or system that prevents an employee from falling from an elevation or
mitigates the effect of such a fall.
 Fixed ladder: a ladder with rails or individual rungs that is permanently attached to a structure, building, or equipment.
Fixed ladders include individual-rung ladders, but not ship stairs, step bolts, or manhole steps.
 Guardrail system: a barrier erected along an unprotected or exposed side, edge, or other areas of a walking/working
surface to prevent employees from falling to a lower level.
 Handrail: a rail used to provide employees with a handhold for support.
 Hoist area: any elevated access opening to a walking-working surface through which equipment or materials are
loaded or received.
 Hole: a gap or open space in a floor, roof, horizontal walking-working surface, or similar surface that is at least 2 inches
(5 cm) in its least dimension.
 Individual-rung ladder: a ladder that has rungs individually attached to a building or structure. An individual-rung
ladder does not include manhole steps.
 Ladder: a device with rungs, steps, or cleats used to gain access to a different elevation.
 Ladder safety system: a system designed to eliminate or reduce the possibility of falling from a ladder. A ladder safety
system usually consists of a carrier, safety sleeve, lanyard, connectors, and body harness. Cages and wells are not
ladder safety systems.
 Lower level: a surface or area to which an employee could fall. Such surfaces or areas include, but are not limited to,
ground levels, floors, roofs, ramps, runways, excavations, pits, tanks, materials, water, equipment, and similar surfaces
and structures, or portions thereof.
 Maximum intended load: the total load (weight and force) of all employees, equipment, vehicles, tools, materials, and
other loads the employer reasonably anticipates to be applied to a walking-working surface at any one time.
 Mobile: manually propelled or moveable.
 Opening: a gap or open space in a wall, partition, vertical walking/working surface, or similar surface that is at least 30
inches (76 cm) high and at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide, through which an employee can fall to a lower level.
 Personal fall arrest system: a system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a walking-working surface. It consists
of a body harness, anchorage, and connector. The means of connection may include a lanyard, deceleration device,
lifeline, or a suitable combination of these.
 Personal fall protection system: a system (including all components) an employer uses to provide protection from
falling or to safely arrest an employee's fall if one occurs. Examples of personal fall protection systems include personal
fall arrest systems, positioning systems, and travel restraint systems.
 Platform: a walking-working surface that is elevated above the surrounding area.
 Portable ladder: a ladder that can readily be moved or carried, and usually consists of side rails joined at intervals by
steps, rungs, or cleats.
 Positioning system (work-positioning system): a system of equipment and connectors that, when used with a body
harness or body belt, allows an employee to be supported on an elevated vertical surface, such as a wall or window sill,
and work with both hands free. Positioning systems also are called "positioning system devices" and "work-positioning
equipment."
 Qualified: a person who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by
extensive knowledge, training, and experience has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems
relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.
 Rung, step, or cleat: the crosspiece of a ladder on which an employee steps to climb up and down.
 Scaffold: any temporary elevated or suspended platform and its supporting structure, including anchorage points, used
to support employees, equipment, materials, and other items. For purposes of this subpart, a scaffold does not include
a crane-suspended or derrick-suspended personnel platform or a rope descent system.

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 Ship stair (ship ladder): a stairway that is equipped with treads, stair rails, and open risers, and has a slope that is
between 50 and 70 degrees from the horizontal.
 Side-step ladder: a type of fixed ladder that requires an employee to step sideways from it in order to reach a walking-
working surface, such as a landing.
 Stepladder: a self-supporting, portable ladder that has a fixed height, flat steps, and a hinged back.
 Stepstool: a self-supporting, portable ladder that has flat steps and side rails. For purposes of the final rule, stepstool
includes only those ladders that have a fixed height, do not have a pail shelf, and do not exceed 32 inches (81 cm) in
overall height to the top cap, although side rails may extend above the top cap. A stepstool is designed so an employee
can climb and stand on all of the steps and the top cap.
 Through ladder: a type of fixed ladder that allows the employee to step through the side rails at the top of the ladder to
reach a walking-working surface, such as a landing.
 Tieback: an attachment between an anchorage (e.g., structural member) and a supporting device (e.g., parapet clamp
or cornice hook).
 Toeboard: a low protective barrier that is designed to prevent materials, tools, and equipment from falling to a lower
level, and protect employees from falling.
 Travel restraint system: a combination of an anchorage, anchorage connector, lanyard (or other means of
connection), and body support that an employer uses to eliminate the possibility of an employee going over the edge of
a walking-working surface.
 Warning line: a barrier erected to warn employees that they are approaching an unprotected side or edge, and which
designates an area in which work may take place without the use of other means of fall protection.

16.0 References
 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D – Walking and Working Surfaces
 29 CFR 1910 Subpart F – Powered Platforms, Man lifts, and Vehicle-Mounted Platforms
 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I – Personal Protective Equipment
 29 CFR 1910 Subpart L – Scaffolds
 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L – Scaffolds
 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M – Fall Protection

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