Philadelphia, PA – As the leaves begin to fall, it’s a timely reminder to focus on fall prevention—particularly in construction, where falls remain one of the most frequent causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. At P. Agnes, fall prevention isn’t just a compliance measure; it’s a core part of our safety culture and commitment to protecting our workers.
According to OSHA, falls account for nearly 40% of all construction-related fatalities, making fall protection one of the most crucial responsibilities on any job site. Whether preventing workers from falling off elevated platforms or ensuring holes in floors and walls are properly covered, employers must remain vigilant. P. Agnes has always been at the forefront of safety, and this year, we reaffirmed our dedication to fall prevention by participating in the 2024 Fall Protection Equipment Inspection initiative.
This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Mid-Atlantic Construction Safety Council (MACSC), the General Building Contractors Association (GBCA), and OSHA, involved inspecting over 1,500 pieces of fall protection equipment at job sites, with a focus on body harnesses, lanyards, and retractable devices. The results of these inspections were promising, with an 8% removal rate—down from 12% in 2023. These numbers reflect P. Agnes’ ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of our workers by proactively addressing potential hazards before they lead to incidents. As a result of these rigorous inspections, it’s estimated that up to 114 lives may have been saved this year alone.
At P. Agnes, we place significant emphasis on training our team to recognize and address potential risks. Through manufacturer-led training sessions, our employees are equipped with the knowledge to identify signs of wear, fraying, or damage to fall protection equipment. This comprehensive approach ensures that every piece of safety gear used on our job sites meets OSHA’s stringent requirements (CFR 1926 Subpart M), keeping our workers safe and our projects running smoothly.
As we reflect on fall prevention this season, P. Agnes remains dedicated to fostering a culture where safety comes first. Our commitment extends beyond just meeting standards; it’s about setting higher ones. By consistently evaluating and improving our safety practices, we ensure that every worker returns home safe, continuing our tradition of personal dedication to our clients’ success and the well-being of our team. For more detailed insights on fall prevention and safety practices in the construction industry, you can explore further resources from OSHA and the National Safety Council, which provide extensive research on preventing workplace falls and promoting a culture of safety.