Occupational Fatalities Related to Roofs, Ceilings and Floors as Found in Reports of OSHA Fatality/Catastrophe Investigations

摘要

This study covers the period of 1974-78. It highlights problems in standard setting, in compliance efforts and in safety inspection training. All incidents related were falls resulting in death. They were classified according to how and where the fall occurred: falls through opening, through non-supportive material, from edges of surface, or on same level, and others. The employee activity at the time of the accident is also examined. In almost all cases, death resulted from fractures and concussions following a fall from an elevation, which could have been prevented, in many instances, by proper use of guards and personal protective equipment. Failure to comply resulted in citations.