Fall Protection: Why It Remains the #1 Construction Hazard

Falls remain the leading cause of death in construction, accounting for nearly 40% of all fatalities on USACE projects. Despite comprehensive training requirements under EM385-1-1, contractors continue to face citations—and worse, tragic losses.

Why Falls Keep Happening

The problem isn't lack of knowledge. Most workers understand fall protection requirements. The gaps lie in:

• Inspection frequency: Anchor points and lanyards degrade over time
• Human error: Workers bypassing safety measures to save time
• Changing conditions: Weather, worksite changes, and equipment failures
• Training gaps: New workers unfamiliar with site-specific hazards

EM385-1-1 Requirements

Section 21 of EM385-1-1 mandates fall protection for all workers at heights of 6 feet or more. Key requirements include:

• Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) with proper anchorages
• Guardrail systems where feasible
• Safety net systems where appropriate
• Written fall protection plans for complex situations

What Contractors Are Missing

Audits reveal common failures: anchor points rated below 5,000 lbs, improperly connected lanyards, and documentation gaps. Pre-work inspections and consistent enforcement are non-negotiable.