Fatalities caused by falls from elevation continue to be a leading cause of death for construction employees, accounting for 395 of the 1,069 construction fatalities recorded in 2022 (BLS data). Those deaths were preventable. The National Safety Stand-Down, conducted by OSHA May 6-10, raises fall hazard awareness across the country in an effort to stop fall fatalities and injuries.
The Stand-Down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Any workplace can hold a stand-down by taking a break to focus on “Fall Hazards” and reinforcing the importance of “Fall Prevention.”
OSHA is partnering with key groups to assist with this effort, including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the National Occupational Research Agenda, OSHA approved State Plans, State consultation programs, the Center for Construction Research and Training, the American Society of Safety Professionals, the National Safety Council, the National Construction Safety Executives, the U.S. Air Force, and the OSHA Training Institute Education Centers.
Companies can conduct a Safety Stand-Down by taking a break to have a toolbox talk or another safety activity such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, or discussing job specific hazards. Managers are encouraged to plan a stand-down that works best for their workplace anytime.
Employers will be able to provide feedback about their Stand-Down and download a Certificate of Participation (English and Spanish) following the Stand-Down.
