Fall From Scaffolding
Above scaffold shows violations typically found at construction
sites: workers are not wearing safety harnesses, platforms are
not fully planked, and there is no guardrail system.
What programs does the Department of Labor have in place to prevent falls from scaffolds?
Construction special emphasis program: Increased training and attention in a dangerous industry.
Free training: Workshops, training and consultation in both English and Spanish.
Publications: Industry guides that discuss safe scaffolding practices.
Investigation Process
What triggers a fatality or catastrophe investigation by
the N.C. Department of Labor?
• A worker’s death.
• Hospitalization of three or more employees.
• The department may also receive information of a
fatality or catastrophe from media reports or referrals
from other government agencies.
How is NCDOL notified?
• An employer must notify NCDOL within eight hours
of a worker’s fatality or the hospitalization of three
or more workers.
What will the investigation focus on?
• The investigation will usually be limited to the
events surrounding the accident unless observations
at the site indicate a broader investigation is needed.
What will happen during the investigation?
• An NCDOL investigator will go to the accident site
and collect physical evidence, including photographs.
• The investigator will interview employees, witnesses
and management officials about the accident to
determine its cause.
• Any violations of safety and health standards will be
noted and citations will be issued.
How long will the investigation take?
• An investigation can take anywhere from a few
weeks to six months, depending on the complexity
of the accident.
When are investigation results disclosed?
• Citations and penalties, if issued, can be released to
the public on the issuance date.
• Other contents of the file cannot be released until the
case is closed or final order on citations is rendered.
The Investigation
Investigators will seek to determine several factors,
including whether:
• Fall protection was provided for employees on scaf-folds
higher than 10 feet.
• Load limits for scaffolding were observed.
• Scaffold decks were fully planked.
• Employees kept a safe distance from power lines.
• Employees had safe access to the scaffold.
• Scaffolding was inspected by a “competent” person,
someone with the authority to stop work and quali-fied
to recognize hazards.
• Employer developed a training program that helped
employees become aware of scaffolding hazards.
Cherie Berry, Commissioner
N.C. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Division
1101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
www.nclabor.com
1-800-625-2267
Standards: 29 CFR 1910.28, Scaffolds
29 CFR 1926, Subpart L—Scaffolds
Industry Type: Construction and General Industry
Accident Type: Fall from scaffolding
Statistical Data: In 2005, NCDOL investigated 80 work-place
fatalities. Of the 80, falls accounted for 21 deaths.
