June 30, 2011
Research Triangle Park, NC – OSHA implemented a new directive this month for fall protection regulations affecting the residential construction industry. The directive went into effect on June 16, 2011, and includes some significant changes which will impact the residential construction industry, including roofers, weather proofers and others involved in related activities.
OSHA requires fall protection for all employees involved in construction activities when they are 6 feet or more above a lower level. Employers are required by OSHA standard 1926.501(b)(13) to use conventional fall protection systems such as guardrail systems, safety nets or personal fall arrest systems. If an employer can demonstrate that conventional methods are not feasible or would create a greater hazard, then such systems are not required. Instead, the employer would be required to use a site-specific written fall protection plan.
The previous directive, STD 03-00-001, which was intended as an interim guidance document, allowed employers to use alternative measures such as slide guards or safety monitors. It did not require employers to prove that conventional measures were infeasible or that they presented a hazard. Residential contractors are now required to comply with 1926.501(b)(13) and assure that each employee working 6 feet or higher uses some form of fall protection. No longer will employers have a free pass to forego conventional fall protection, as OSHA intends to increase enforcement activities.
The EI Group, Inc. (EI) has developed training for competent persons, trainers and employees. Training can be conducted at any of the six EI facilities or on residential job sites. Residential contractors are encouraged to contact EI at 800.717.3472 for help in meeting OSHA’s mandates for fall protection to protect their most important resource…their workers.
About The EI Group, Inc.
The EI Group was founded in 1988 as an environmental, health and safety consulting firm dedicated to providing quality, cost-effective consulting, training and engineering services to the public and private sectors nationwide. EI, a privately owned company, employs approximately one hundred (100) professionals and is headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina, with branch offices in Charlotte, North Carolina; Glen Allen and Roanoke, Virginia; Greenville, South Carolina; Louisville, Kentucky; and Dallas, Texas.
For more information on The EI Group’s OSHA compliance service offerings, please contact Mr. Bill Taylor, at btaylor@ei1.com or 800.717.3472.
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