The new provisions now effective for enforcement on 6 16 11 provide an opportunity to contractors to provide proper fall protection or what OSHA calls Conventional Fall Protection (Guardrails, PFAS, Nets). Details and history are presented in Professional Safety, June issue 2011 page 60.
These were necessary because the previous Interim STD of 1999 did not reduce deaths and injuries.
New systems can provide the lightweight reliable fittings and shorter fall arrest distance. Further research is needed concerning residential truss points of stress and strength.
The National Safety Council Data Sheet for Residential Construction #751 was produced by the Construction Division and which Dr. Ellis chaired. This provides an organization for fall hazard recognition and possible solutions on residential construction sites with references to the next source of information from excavation to roofing.
Anchor points can be calculated to help avoid collisions with the ground or other structures. The pending Z359.14 standard on Self-Retracting Devices will provide sensing and fall arrest within 24”.
Use of slideguards can be made safer for roof construction than originally proposed by OSHA with some simple rules.
Red line standing set backs of 6ft are still reasonable when discipline prevails with good supervision.
Wall frames and trusses can have temporary 2×4” railings on each level.
Once a template has been conceived then similar new homes can be constructed in a systematic way to reduce hazards.
Opportunity to address senior housing needs over the next decade with a focus on staying at home:
Toronto Rehab, 550 University Avenue Toronto, has an excellent funded design research program for seniors and testing of home modifications including stairways with variable pitch and transportation choices for Diabetes 2, Alzheimers and Dementia using various weather scenarios, training and reduction in steps and stairs for continued home occupancy in the advancing years.