Abstract
Background: Falls are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the construction industry. This study measured fall hazards at residential construction sites. Methods: Trained carpenters administered the St. Louis Audit of Fall Risks and interviewed carpenters. The prevalence of fall prevention practices meeting safety criteria was counted and correlations explored. Results: We identified a high prevalence of fall hazards at the 197 residential sites audited. Roof sheathing met safety criteria most consistently (81%) and truss setting least consistently (28%). Use of personal fall arrest and monitoring of unguarded floor openings were rare. Safer performance on several scales was correlated. Construction sites of large-sized contractors were generally safer than smaller contractors. Apprentice carpenters were less familiar with their employers' fall prevention plan than experienced workers. Conclusions: Safety could be improved with consistent use of recognized fall prevention practices at residential construction sites.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 491-499 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | American Journal of Industrial Medicine |
Volume | 52 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 2009 |
Keywords
- Carpenters
- Compliance
- Construction
- Fall prevention
- Injury prevention
- Residential construction