Reduce fall hazards with these five measures!
Fall hazards are a serious issue. Not for nothing does the occupational hazard 'falling from height' have a number one position in the list of occupational fatalities. Attention in the workplace to fall hazards is imperative.
On this page, we take you into the world of falls from height and address the questions; when do we talk about fall hazards, what are the rules and what to do to minimise fall hazards.
Facing the issue of fall hazards in the workplace? Then get in touch with one of our advisers. They can tell you all about the most suitable fall protection for your workplace situation. Give advice on increasing employee support and tell you everything you need to know about legislation and regulations. Contact us at: info@veiliggoed.nl or +31 184 43 44 55.
What do we mean by fall hazard?
In all places where there is a difference in height, there is a danger of falling. In practice, it is much more common for employees to fall from a small height than from a great height. However, the consequences are often much smaller when falling from a small height. This is because the impact of a high fall is much greater. Eliminating the risk of falls when working at (great) heights should be a top priority. We support our customers in this by supplying the right, high-quality fall protection. But also by advising on workplace support for compliance with laws and regulations.
Fall hazard laws and regulations
What exactly are the rules when it comes to fall hazards? In short, it boils down to the following; if fall protection is missing when working at a height of more than 2.5 metres, or in risky conditions below 2.5 metres, it is legally an offence.
In practice, this means that sound fall protection must always be used when working at height. Work may only be carried out from sound equipment, such as safe scaffolding. Is work being carried out below 2.5 metres, but under risky conditions? Even then fall protection is mandatory. Think, for instance, of situations such as working above traffic or pipes.
There are several laws in force when it comes to fall hazards and working at height. We would like to refer to:
- Health and Safety Decree article 3.16: Preventing fall hazards - the employer must take the necessary measures.
- Working Conditions Decree article 7.18b: hoisting and lifting gear for persons.
- Working Conditions Decree article 7.23: use of work equipment for working at height, such as ladders, scaffolds and steps.
- Working Conditions Decree article 7.34: scaffolds.
Table of contents
Preventing falls
We broadly distinguish five disciplines within the occupational risk of falling. These are:
- Postioning
- Fall protection
- Climbing equipment for tree maintenance
- Rope Access
- Protection for tools
Positioning
Fall protection
Climbing equipment for tree maintenance
Rope access
Protection for tools
Falling tools can also pose a risk, especially for lower-level employees. An object or a belt in which tools are stored can reduce this risk.
Want to know more about the possibilities of fall protection? Or order fall protection for your company? Then get in touch with us!
Who are we?
Wijngaarden VeiligGoed is an expert in PPE (personal protective equipment). We supply protective equipment such as fall protection, but also give advice on how to use it correctly. We even like to stick a spade deeper and stand side by side with our customers to provide a safe working environment for employees on the shop floor.
You can find us in Sliedrecht, located between Dordrecht and Gorinchem. From our warehouse of more than 5,000 square metres, we serve more than 3,200 customers in all kinds of different industries. With more than 50 years of experience, we are a leader in the world of PPE.
Want to get in touch with us for advice on fall prevention or to order fall protection? Then get in touch with us via our contact page. Or call directly at: +31 184 43 44 55.
