Health and Safety A-Z
Topic: Fall from Height
Summary:
Falls from height tend to result in serious injury. If you need to work above the ground, even briefly, use a ladder or similar device intended for that purpose. Never use a chair or a table.
If you plan to work where there is a risk of falling 3m (10 feet) or more you will require specialized training and, in most instances, fall prevention equipment and a documented (written) fall prevention program. Additional precautions apply to construction sites and construction-related activities.
It is important to remember that falls from height don’t always involve climbing: openings in floors, trap doors, ledges, loading docks, etc. are all fall hazards. These openings and drop-offs should always be protected by a suitable, secure cover or guardrails.
For more information see:
Ministry of Labour, Working at Heights Training
Ont. Reg. 851 – Industrial Establishments, s. 13, 15, 73, 85, 86
Additional Resources:
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety:
Body Belts Harnesses and Lanyards
Last Revised:November 3, 2015