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ISEA proposes first industry standard on dropped object prevention

Comment period on new standard open until March 26

Posted February 13, 2018

The International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) wants reviews from government and industry on its proposed new standard on preventing dropped objects. ISEA 121 would establish minimum design, performance, and labeling requirements to mitigate the risks of falling objects in industrial and occupational settings.

If finalized, ISEA would be the first industrial standard to specifically address dropped objects. Dropped objects include hand tools, instruments, small parts, structural components, and other items that must be transferred and used at heights. Struck-by injuries from dropped objects can range from inconvenience or loss of productivity to life-altering injury or even death.

ISEA says preventing dropped objects is especially relevant for oil and gas, construction, energy and telecommunications infrastructure, shipping operations, and aviation industries, where elevated work areas are common.

Public comments will be accepted through March 26, 2018.

ISEA is also seeking consensus body members from government and industry. These reviewers will serve as the final authority in determining whether the standard is submitted to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for approval as an American National Standard. Panel members should have a special interest in the new standard due to safety, technical, or regulatory requirements, or have expert knowledge in falling object prevention. Panel members should not, however, produce or use products covered by the standard.

Contact ISEA’s director of member and technical services Christine Fargo to obtain a copy of the proposed standard. There is a $20 charge for the material.


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