Falls remain the number one killer of workers in the constructionindustry and the number two killer of workers in private industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  While falls from ladders still account for the majority of these fatalities, identifying hazards and implementing the proper fall protection solution is the first step in reducing injuries, absenteeism, and other injury related costs.

The following hierarchy is suggested for use as a guideline for eliminating or controling fall hazards in the workplace.

1. Elimination of the hazard.  Correcting hazardous work practices or removing the hazards altogether.
2. Passive Fall Protection.  Isolation and separation of the hazard or hazardous work practice from employees is the next best alternative.
3. Fall Restraint.  Securing the worker to an anchorage using a lanyard or lifeline short enough so that it will prevent the person's center of gravity from reaching the fall hazard.
4. Fall Arrest.  A system designed to stop a worker after a fall has begun