Falls continue to be the leading cause of fatalities in residential construction. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average of 40 workers die each year from falls on residential job sites, with rooftop work being especially hazardous. These incidents are not only tragic, they’re also preventable and come with serious financial implications, including costly claims, legal exposure, and higher insurance premiums.
To reduce these risks, OSHA enforces strict fall protection standards for all employers involved in residential construction, and noncompliance can lead to severe penalties.
What Counts as Residential Construction?
According to OSHA, residential construction includes structures that:
- Are intended for use as homes or dwellings
- Are built using traditional wood-frame construction methods (including limited structural steel)
Any employer involved in this type of work must follow OSHA’s fall protection standards when workers are operating six feet or more above lower levels.
Required Fall Protection Systems
Employers must provide one or more of the following:
- Guardrail systems
- Safety net systems
- Personal fall arrest systems, such as full-body harnesses with anchorage and deceleration devices
There are limited exceptions, and in cases where conventional methods are infeasible or pose greater hazards, employers are required to develop a site-specific fall protection plan explaining why standard systems can’t be used and outlining alternative safety measures.
Why Compliance Matters
Failing to comply with fall protection standards can result in:
- OSHA citations and fines
- Increased workers’ comp premiums
- Reputational harm
- Employee injuries or fatalities
Implementing and maintaining fall protection systems is not just about compliance, it’s about protecting your team and your business.
At McHugh Insurance Group, we work with contractors to ensure they meet safety standards while managing risk effectively. If you need help evaluating your fall protection program or want to review your construction liability coverage, we’re here to help.