Working on a construction site can pose a number of dangers, from heat stroke to machinery malfunctions. However, the number one cause of death in the industry comes from a potentially surprising source: falling. Tripping and falling while walking can be enough to sprain an ankle or break a wrist, so it is no wonder that falling from much higher can be deadly. However, falls are preventable. This is especially true if you have the right knowledge and equipment to mitigate the dangers. This course will help you to identify the potential fall hazards, as well as use the proper safety and fall arrest systems necessary to work safely at heights.

There are many ways you can fall. The most commonly thought about is accidentally stepping off an elevated structure or platform. There are other ways of course, such as you falling through a surface when it was not meant to bear your weight, or the surface you are standing on simply collapsing. Still other ways you can be injured in a fall exist, and you will learn about them here. Knowing how to recognize the dangers you may face is a key component in ensuring you are not injured in a fall.

Of course, it is not just about recognizing the danger; it is also about doing something to actively prevent it. This includes fall prevention systems; the general rule is that if you can fall six feet or more, some fall prevention method must be used. There are many examples of fall prevention methods, ranging from the more basic (guardrails) to the more complex (active fall arrest systems). When you utilize these systems, along with your knowledge on the dangers of falling on the jobsite, you will be in the best position to avoid serious injury or death. Ultimately, utilize the information presented in this course and learn how to minimize the danger a fall could pose to you.