UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
FINANCIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES MANUAL

TITLE: FALL PROTECTION PROCEDURES

PROCEDURE: 14-2

DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO THESE PROCEDURES

FALL PROTECTION SYSTEM
Fall Protection Systems are designed to protect personnel from the risk of falls when working at elevated heights. Recognized systems include:

1. FALL PREVENTION - a structural design to limit a fall to the same level (e.g., guardrails, aerial lifts with work platforms).
2. FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT - an approved full body harness, shock absorbing lanyard or self retractable lifeline, locking snaphooks and anchor points approved for a static load of 5000 pounds or engineered to meet a two to one safety factor.

AERIAL LIFT
Vehicle mounted elevating work platform (e.g. Boom Lifts, Articulating Telescoping Boom Lifts and Scissor Lifts).

OSHA
Occupational Safety & Health Administration

SUPPORTED SCAFFOLD
One or more platforms supported by outrigger beams, brackets, poles, legs, uprights, posts, frames or similar rigid support.

SUSPENDED SCAFFOLD
One or more platforms suspended by ropes or other non-rigid means from an overhead structure(s).

COMPETENT PERSON
A person who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are hazardous to personnel and who has authorization to quickly correct the situation.

QUALIFIED PERSON
A person with a recognized degree or professional certificate, (e.g. civil or mechanical engineering profession or Certified Safety Professional) and extensive knowledge and experience in this area, capable of doing design, analysis, evaluation and specifications.

CERTIFICATION
ANSI (American National Standards Institute) defines certification as documentation that determines criteria meets the requirements of the standard through testing or proven analytical method (e.g. engineering calculations) or both, carried out under the supervision of a QUALIFIED PERSON.

PURPOSE
The purpose of the Fall Protection Procedures is to instruct departments on: (1) Fall Protection requirements and; (2) the Department's responsibility to train faculty, staff and student members exposed to the risk of falls on FALL PROTECTION SYSTEMS established by the department including their safety procedures to protect personnel from fall hazards. Assistance is available from Environmental Health & Safety to perform fall hazard analysis, recommend FALL PROTECTION SYSTEM options and coordinate personnel training on FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT.

DEPARTMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

1. Departments must review work locations and activities to identify existing or potential fall hazards and identify personnel that may be exposed to fall hazards.
2. Departments who assign work activities to their faculty, staff or student members that are four feet or more from a lower level must use an appropriate FALL PROTECTION SYSTEM.
3. Departments must provide resources for personnel training and procurement of fall arrest equipment or other fall protection systems necessary for working safely at elevated heights.
4. Departments must train faculty, staff or student members to: (1) recognize fall hazards specific to their work location or assigned work activities, (2) follow established safety procedures to protect them from fall hazards and (3) use the selected FALL PROTECTION SYSTEM correctly.

FALL PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

1. Climbing, standing on or working from equipment, pipes, ducts or other such areas is prohibited except for where the surface is designed for climbing or standing. Appropriate fall protection must be implemented when areas have been designed for climbing or standing and are elevated four feet or more from ground or a lower level.
2. AERIAL LIFT - Work activities that are performed with an AERIAL LIFT must be in conformance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.67 Vehicle Mounted Elevating and Rotating Work Platforms. Basic requirements include but are not limited to:
   • Initial training is required to operate Aerial Lifts. Generally the Equipment manufacturer or distributor can provide Operator Training.
   • Articulated and extensible boom platforms must have both platform (operator controls) and lower controls.
   • The Operator must test the controls each day to determine that the controls are in safe working condition.
   • Body Harnesses must be worn with a Shock Absorbing Lanyard, (preferably not to exceed 3 feet in length). The point of attachment must be to the designated anchor point installed by the Equipment Manufacturer. The anchor point is generally identified with a label and in the Operator Instruction Guidelines.  Personnel cannot attach lanyards to adjacent poles, structures or equipment while they are working from the Aerial Lift.
   • Personnel cannot move an Aerial Lift while the boom is in an elevated working position and the operator is inside of the Lift platform.
   • Aerial lift personnel are encouraged to work in teams as best work practice and not to operate an aerial lift alone. In the event of an emergency a second operator can operate the lift controls from the ground to lower an individual in the "basket" in the event of an emergency.
3. SELF POWERED PLATFORMS - Permanently installed SELF POWERED PLATFORMS for building maintenance (generally used for high rise window cleaning and painting) must be in conformance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.66 Powered Platforms for Building Maintenance.
4. SUSPENDED SCAFFOLDS (swinging scaffolds) used to service buildings on a temporary basis must be in conformance with Appendix D of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.66 Powered Platforms for Building Maintenance.
5. SUPPORTED and SUSPENDED SCAFFOLDING for construction, renovation and maintenance activities must be in conformance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.26.450 - SCAFFOLDS. Basic requirements include but are not limited to:
   • USE- Daily inspection of scaffold's integrity by a COMPETENT PERSON; no horizontal movement with personnel on scaffold; personnel may not work off of ladders or other raised structures set up on the work platform of the scaffold.
   • FALL PROTECTION - Required when the work platform is ten feet or higher.
   • SUPPORTED SCAFFOLDS - Must be constructed on secure footings. Scaffolds that are four to one (vertical height four times higher than the scaffold's base width) must be restrained from tipping over. Typical restraints are tying into the structure or using outriggers.
   • TRAINING - Personnel who use, assemble, maintain or dismantle scaffolds are required to be initially trained in the following:
     • Scaffold Standard
     • nature of electrical, fall and falling object hazards
     • correct procedures and safety equipment for protection from those hazards
     • proper use and procedures for erecting, dismantling, moving and inspecting scaffolds
     • load capacities of scaffolds.
6. LADDER SAFETY for wood/metal portable and extension ladders includes frequent inspection and prompt removal of defective ladders from service. Defective ladders must be tagged as Dangerous, Do Not Use and repaired or destroyed. Ladder Inspection criteria includes but is not limited to the following:
   • Wood ladders must be free of splinters, sharp edges and have no visual defects noted by wood decay or other irregularities.
   • Metal ladders must not have structural defects, sharp edges or metal burrs.
   • Ladders with broken, bent or missing steps, rungs or cleats or; broken, bent or dented side rails or other defects, must not be used. Improvised repairs cannot be made.
   • Joints between the steps and siderails must be tight.
   • Hardware and fittings must be securely attached and movable parts must operate freely without binding.
   • Locking spreaders are required and must operate to securely hold the front and back ladder sections in the open position.
7. LADDER SAFETY-USE OF:
   • Use ladders according to the posted load limits.
   • Set up ladders on firm footing and secure in place to prevent the ladder from slipping.
   • Follow the Four to One Rule during set up (for every four feet of vertical ladder height move the ladder out one foot from the wall, building or structure).
   • Do not place ladders onto unstable bases to obtain additional height including setting up ladders onto the working platforms of scaffolding.
   • Do not set up ladders in front of doorways.
   • Ladders used to access roofs must have side rails that extend up an additional three feet to allow a safe transition.
   • Do not stand on the top of ladders or work from the top step.
   • Do not climb ladders carrying equipment or tools. Use other means to transport equipment and tools up to the worksite.
   • Always face the ladder when going up and down.
   • Follow the "Three on Rule" (two hands and one foot on the ladder or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times). Do not over reach from the sides of the ladder.
   • More information on ladder safety can be found here.
8. ANCHOR POINTS FOR PERSONAL FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT Secure anchor points are the most critical component when employees must use fall arrest equipment. UVA buildings may have existing structures (e.g., steel beams or anchored roof cupolas that may meet the criteria for a secure anchor point). Other work locations and assignments may require the installation of a temporary or permanent anchor. As a minimum, the following criteria must be considered for each type of anchor point:
   • CRITERIA FOR AN EXISTING STRUCTURE
     • Structure must be sound and capable of withstanding a 5000 lb. static load.
     • Structure/anchor must be easily accessible to avoid fall hazards during hook up.
     • Prior to tying off to perform the work a means of rescue in the event of a fall must be immediately available.
     • Direct tying off around sharp edged structures can reduce breaking strength by 70% therefore; chafing pads or abrasion resistant straps must be used around sharp edged structures to prevent cutting action against safety lanyards or lifelines.
     • OSHA limits free falls to 4 feet. Structures used as anchor points must be at the worker's shoulder level or higher to limit free fall to 4 feet or less and prevent contact with any lower level.
     • Choose structures for anchor points that will prevent swing fall hazards. Potentially dangerous "pendulum" like swing falls can result when a worker moves horizontally away from a fixed anchor point and falls. The arc of the swing produces as much energy as a vertical free fall and the hazard of swinging into an obstruction becomes a major factor:
     • Raising the height of the anchor point can reduce the angle of the arc and the force of the swing.
     • Horizontal lifelines can help maintain the attachment point overhead and limit the fall vertically. QUALIFIED PERSONS must design horizontal lifeline systems.
   • CRITERIA FOR PERMANENT ANCHOR In addition to all the criteria listed for EXISTING STRUCTURES, the following points must be considered:
     • Environmental factors and dissimilarity of materials can degrade exposed anchors.
     • Preserving roof/structure integrity after penetrating roof/structure for installation of anchors.
     • Compatibility of permanent anchors with employee's fall arrest equipment.
     • Permanent anchor systems that meet a 2 to 1 safety factor of at least 3,600 lb. must be CERTIFIED. The design and installation must be done by a QUALIFIED PERSON. If the permanent anchor system is not certified it must meet a 5,000 lb. static load or greater.
     • Inclusion of permanent anchors into a Preventive Maintenance Program.
     • Schedule recertification test.
     • Determine appropriate end life and schedule for replacement.
     • Visibly label permanent anchors.
     • Roof anchors must be immediately removed from service and disposed of if subjected to fall arrest forces.
   • REUSABLE TEMPORARY ROOF ANCHORS In addition to all the criteria listed for EXISTING STRUCTURES, the following points must be considered:
     • Reusable temporary roof anchors must be installed and used following the manufacturer's installation guidelines.
     • Roof anchors must be compatible with employee's fall arrest equipment.
     • Roof anchors must be removed from service at the completion of the job and inspected prior to reuse following the manufacturer's inspection guidelines.
     • Roof anchors must be immediately removed from service and disposed of if subjected to fall arrest forces.
9. FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS: Fall Arrest Equipment reduces the risk of injuries that can occur when a worker falls from one level to another. If engineering controls are not feasible to prevent the fall, fall arrest equipment becomes the last line of defense. Equipment manufacturers routinely test and certify components of their fall arrest equipment as a "system". Components of fall arrest equipment from different manufacturers are rarely interchangeable or certified as a complete "fall arrest system." Consistency (one manufacturer's line of fall arrest equipment) is usually the best choice for departments and/or cost centers to ensure compatibility of equipment. Assistance is available from Environmental Health & Safety on selection and procurement of Fall Arrest Equipment. Critical components of fall arrest equipment include:
   • BODY HARNESSES - Body Harnesses are required. The harness must, comfortably but snugly, fit the individual. Many body harnesses are designed for "universal fit" to accommodate several individuals. "Universal fit" has limitations, small frame and large frame individuals may not be adequately accommodated by the mid range "universal fit".
   • SHOCK ABSORBING LANYARDS "Connector" - Shock Absorbing lanyards are required. Static rope and nylon lanyards must be replaced with an appropriate length shock absorbing lanyard. During fall arrest the rip stitching of the shock absorbing lanyard absorbs the shock of the fall, drastically reducing forces onto the body and preventing significant injury. Special attention must be given to the stopping distance required by the manufacturer of the lanyard. Generally, the overall free fall distance may be 9 feet.
   • LOCKING SNAPHOOKS "Connector" - Locking snaphooks are required. All connection hardware (e.g. - snaphooks, caribineers) must have a locking mechanism to prevent roll out from the anchor and sized appropriately to fit with the anchor.
   • INSPECTION of FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT - OSHA and Fall Arrest Equipment Manufacturers, require any defective equipment to be immediately removed from service and replaced. Defective equipment must be destroyed to prevent accidental use that could endanger someone's life.
   • HARNESS INSPECTION - Defects include but are not limited to:
     • Cuts
     • Abrasion
     • Loose threads
     • Tears
     • Stretching
     • Mold
   • LOOK FOR DETERIORATION
     • Exposure to molten metal or flame from hot work will fuse nylon fibers together. There may be hard shiny spots and the nylon appears shriveled and brown. The nylon will feel brittle.
     • Exposure to harsh chemicals - change in color, appearing as a brownish smear. Nylon webbing loses elasticity.
   • HARDWARE INSPECTION - Look for cracks, pitting and any distortion in all hardware components: buckles, D-rings, snaphooks and carabineers, rivets and grommets. Belt buckle grommets get a lot of wear from opening and closing. Snaphooks must lock and close tightly; buckles must function properly.
   • USE OF FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT
     • Always use a secure anchor point (hold 5000 lb. load).
     • Connect to an anchor point at shoulder level or above. Never connect below the D-ring of the body harness.
     • Connection to anchor points must prevent a dangerous swing fall hazard or impact with any lower level in the event of a fall.
     • Connection to an anchor point must limit the fall to the shortest distance feasible and never approach/exceed six feet.
     • Use chafing pads or anchor slings to prevent cutting "connectors" (lanyards and lifelines) on sharp edges.
     • Do not use knots on "connectors" (lanyards and lifelines).
     • Vertical lifelines must be synthetic (nylon) fiber.
     • Rope Grab Devices used on vertical lifelines, must be secured twelve feet up from the terminal end of the vertical lifeline.
     • Terminate the end of the vertical lifeline to prevent the Rope Grab Device from slipping off.
     • Only one person can "tie off" to a vertical lifeline.
   • CLEANING AND STORAGE OF FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT Follow the equipment manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Always dry equipment naturally. Use an approved lubricant (light motor oil or aerosol lubricant) to oil snaphooks when dry. Store clean and dry away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

ISSUED BY: Director, Office Environmental Health & Safety

CURRENT REVISION DATE: 05/27/13; (last revision dates: 08/21/08, 03/01/99)