Who is Responsible for Providing Fall Protection? with Colt Sargent
Fall Things Considered
“Who is Responsible for Providing Fall Protection?” With Colt Sargent
Episode 002
In this episode of Fall Things Considered, Philip Jacklin & Colt Sargent discuss the critical responsibilities surrounding fall protection during building construction & general facility operations. They explore who is liable for providing fall protection, the importance of training and inspections, and recent legal cases that highlight these issues. The conversation emphasizes the need for architects and building designers to integrate fall protection measures during the design phase to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. They emphasize the need for education in safety practices and explore innovative technologies that enhance fall protection. The discussion also highlights tools available for effective planning and implementation of safety measures in construction projects.
KEY TAKEAWAYS -
1. All employees, regardless of their status, are covered by OSHA regulations. Employers must provide fall protection whenever a worker is exposed to a fall hazard.
2. Regular inspections are crucial. Employers cannot claim ignorance or rely on the argument that the work was temporary or infrequent.
3. Architects and contractors share responsibility. Building design should consider safety measures from the outset to prevent hazards related to rooftop access.
As Philip and Colt discuss, the conversation about fall protection should start during the design phase of a building. Architects must consider how the design impacts safety for anyone who may access the rooftop in the future. By fostering these discussions early, we can create safer environments for workers.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the responsibilities surrounding fall protection, listen to the full episode.
EPISODE REFERENCE LINKS -
Susan Harwood Grant 2026 Awardees list – https://www.osha.gov/harwoodgrants/fy2026-awardees
On-Demand FREE Webinar “Building Owner’s Duty to Provide Fall Protection” – https://www.bigmarker.com/diversifiedfallprotection/Building-Owner-s-Duty-to-Provide-Fall-Protection-f662390ba381e9200deb5912?utm_bmcr_source=podcast
Roof Hatch Safety Rail Kits - https://store.fallprotect.com/products/safepro-roof-hatch-safety-rail
Skylight Fall Protection Screens - https://store.fallprotect.com/products/flat-skylight-screens?_pos=1&_psq=scre&_psid=30fe4a0f8&_ss=e
Ogletree Deakins article “‘We Didn’t Know’ Is No Defense: Lessons for Construction Employers From a Cal/OSHA Appeals Board Decision” - https://ogletree.com/insights-resources/blog-posts/we-didnt-know-is-no-defense-lessons-for-construction-employers-from-a-cal-osha-appeals-board-decision/
Downey vs Western Community College - https://law.justia.com/cases/nebraska/supreme-court/2012/s-10-867.html
1910.28 OSHA’s Duty to Provide Fall Protection - https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.28
COLT’S FAVORITE PRODUCT:
Automatic Roof Hatch Opener - https://store.fallprotect.com/products/safepro-automatic-roof-hatch-opener?_pos=1&_psq=aut&_psid=f43ff5988&_ss=e
CONTACT INFO:
Philip Jacklin
Philip.jacklin@fallprotect.com
Colt Sargent
Colt.sargent@fallprotect.com
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