Authors
Kaskutas-V; Dale-AM; Nolan-J; Patterson-D; Lipscom-HJ; Evanoff-B
Source
Am J Ind Med 2009 Jun; 52(6):491-499
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Falls are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the construction industry. This study measured fall hazards at residential construction sites. METHODS: Trained carpenters administered the St. Louis Audit of Fall Risks and interviewed carpenters. The prevalence of fall prevention practices meeting safety criteria was counted and correlations explored. RESULTS: We identified a high prevalence of fall hazards at the 197 residential sites audited. Roof sheathing met safety criteria most consistently (81%) and truss setting least consistently (28%). Use of personal fall arrest and monitoring of unguarded floor openings were rare. Safer performance on several scales was correlated. Construction sites of large-sized contractors were generally safer than smaller contractors. Apprentice carpenters were less familiar with their employers' fall prevention plan than experienced workers. CONCLUSIONS: Safety could be improved with consistent use of recognized fall prevention practices at residential construction sites.
Keywords
Accident-prevention; Accidents; Construction; Construction-equipment; Construction-industry; Construction-materials; Construction-workers; Epidemiology; Injuries; Injury-prevention; Occupational-hazards; Safety-education; Safety-measures; Safety-practices; Safety-programs; Statistical-analysis; Surveillance-programs; Training; Work-analysis; Work-environment; Worker-motivation; Work-operations; Workplace-studies; Work-practices;
Author Keywords: fall prevention; residential construction; compliance; carpenters; construction; injury prevention
Contact
Vicki Kaskutas, Division of General Medical Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8005, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110
Document Type
Journal Article
Email Address
kaskutasv@wustl.edu
Funding Type
Cooperative Agreement
Identifying No.
Cooperative-Agreement-Number-U54-OH-008307
Priority Area
Construction
Source Name
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
Performing Organization
Center to Protect Workers' Rights