New National Emphasis Program on fall prevention covers all industries

A new National Emphasis Program (NEP) on fall prevention covers all industries, with a focus on construction and specific general industry activities. The NEP took effect May 1; however, programmed inspections under a new NEP typically are initiated after a 90-day outreach period.

For non-construction inspections, the NEP will target:

• Roof top mechanical work/maintenance
• Utility line work/maintenance (electrical, cable)
• Arborist/tree trimming
• Holiday light installation
• Road sign maintenance/billboards
• Power washing buildings (not connected to painting)
• Gutter cleaning
• Chimney cleaning
• Window cleaning
• Communication towers

For other non-construction work activities where a worker is observed working at height, an inspection may be initiated upon approval by OSHA area office management. If an inspection is not warranted after entering the site and observing work activities, the inspector will conduct an outreach activity on fall protection and exit the site.

An outreach component of the NEP will focus on educating employers about effective ways to keep their workers safe.