Fall prevention is one area of occupational safety and health that can be varied and complicated but has many options for protecting workers (fall protection). In May 2022, Federal OSHA and several organizations sponsored the annual Stand Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about the importance of fall prevention awareness. The national program is directed towards construction and includes dedicated posters and publications, local and regional events, video presentations, and partner resources to encourage employers to take the time to address fall prevention in the workplace.     

According to OSHA (and the Bureau of Labor Statistics - BLS), falls continue to be the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry. The numerous fall hazards available on sheet metal / HVAC projects can be readily identified and mitigated with a combination of workplace planning including funding and purchase of appropriate equipment and tools, workplace and task-specific training, providing proper equipment in good condition, pre-use inspection of the workplace and equipment, following manufacturer provided safe work practices including fall rescue procedures, and near-miss / accident investigation.