Last month, we discussed the physics of a fall and the best practices to keep a simple fall from happening. This month, I would like to discuss how to prevent falling from height and personal fall arrest systems (PFAs). What are the advantages and disadvantages of using different types of PFAs?
Drilling operations sometimes require work at a height over the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fall protection distance of 6 feet above a surface. Working high above the ground or floor of a drill presents one of the greatest hazards for any worker. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 4,405 fatal falls occurred in U.S. workplaces (all types of work) in 2013. Many of these falls were preventable with the use of fall prevention best practices, including fall restraint or personal fall-arrest systems. Think of how these falls affect the family and friends of those 4,405 people. How much heartache could proper use of personal fall-arrest systems save? Now, think of the effect on your family if you were to experience a fall.