OSHA Issues New Walking-Working Surface & Fall Protection Rule

OSHA issued a final rule November 17 updating its 44-year old general industry Walking-Working Surfaces standard to protect workers from slip, trip, and fall hazards.

The final rule includes:  “… revised and new provisions addressing, for example, fixed ladders; rope descent systems; fall protection systems and criteria, including personal fall protection systems; and training on fall hazards and fall protection systems.  In addition, the final rule adds requirements on the design, performance, and use of personal fall protection systems.”

OSHA estimates the final rule will prevent more than 5,800 injuries a year. The rule takes effect January 17, 2017.  12/1/2016