Falls from height: analysis of 114 cases

Abstract

Paper aims

To study fall-accident cases in order to analyze the commonly missing or not adequately applied risk management measures (RMM) and its consequences depending on falling height.

Originality

First study to analyze failed RMM for preventing falls from height.

Research method

The study reviewed court cases published by the journal “Safety & Health Practitioner”. NIOSH recommendations were used to define RMM to apply to this study.

Main findings

Finally, in 98% of analyzed cases, the fall from height was a result of several non-adequate or missing RMM: in 81.6% procedures of work, 65.8% guardrails and edge protection, 60.5% risk assessment, and 60.5% platforms or scaffolds. It can be concluded that falls from height pose a significant risk for workers, which could be prevented by adequately apply RMM.

Implications for theory and practice

The focus in the prevention of falls should be given on most common RMM.

Keywords
Injury; Fall accidents; Risk control; Workplace fatalities; Safety in construction