The U . S . Department of Labor ’ s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued a final rule updating its general industry Walking-Working Surfaces standards specific to slip , trip , and fall hazards . The rule also includes a new section under the general industry Personal Protective Equipment standards that establishes employer requirements for using personal fall protection systems .
OSHA Issues Final Rule
Updating Walking- Working Surfaces
Standards and Establising Personal Fall Protection Systems Requirements
The U . S . Department of Labor ’ s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued a final rule updating its general industry Walking-Working Surfaces standards specific to slip , trip , and fall hazards . The rule also includes a new section under the general industry Personal Protective Equipment standards that establishes employer requirements for using personal fall protection systems .
“ The final rule will increase workplace protection from those hazards , especially fall hazards , which are a leading cause of worker deaths and injuries ,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr . David Michaels . “ OSHA believes advances in technology and greater flexibility will reduce worker deaths and injuries from falls .” The final rule also increases consistency between general and construction industries , which will help employers and workers that work in both industries .
OSHA estimates the final standard will prevent 29 fatalities and more than 5,842 injuries annually . The rule becomes effective on Jan . 17 , 2017 , and will affect approximately 112 million workers at seven million worksites .
The final rule ’ s most significant update is allowing employers to select the fall protection system that works best for them , choosing from a range of accepted options including personal fall protection systems . OSHA has permitted the use of personal fall protection systems in construction since 1994 and the final rule adopts similar requirements for general industry .
Other changes include allowing employers to use rope descent systems up to 300 feet above a lower level ; prohibiting the use of body belts as part of a personal fall arrest system ; and requiring worker training on personal fall protection systems and fall equipment .
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 , employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees . OSHA ’ s role is to ensure these conditions for America ’ s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards , and providing training ,
education , and assistance . For more information , visit www . osha . gov .
32