Toolbox Talk: Overhead Work Protection

From electrical work to general construction, jobs involving elevated platforms present certain hazards that can threaten worker safety, injure people, and damage property below. If this happens, the contractor working the job is responsible for the damages. That’s why it’s extremely important when working on an elevated platform that you use the proper precautions to keep yourself and those around you safe from unnecessary injury while on the job site.

Points to Remember:

1. Section off the hazard area below overhead work with signage and some form of barricade to keep the area clear and to prevent traffic from moving underneath.

2. Always wear a hard hat whenever overhead work is taking place on the job site.

3. If parking is allowed in the area, set up signage in advance. This will prevent unattended vehicles from being in your way when it comes time to work on the project.

4. If a hazard area cannot be established under an overhead workspace, use debris nets, catch platforms, or canopies to protect people and property from possible falling objects.

5. Connect all tools to a safety cable to prevent accidental drops when workers or vehicles are below. Use a holster or sheath and a safety line to hold your cell phone and any similar devices.

6. Inspect all safety cables for proper function before starting work each day.

7. Use toeboards or netting to cover guardrails to prevent stray materials from accidentally being bumped off an elevated platform.