Falling objects toolbox talk

What it is

Tools, materials or debris falling from height onto people below.

Controls to check, most effective first

1. Pre-assemble or prefabricate at ground level to reduce the tools and materials needed at height.
2. Fit toeboards, mesh screens, catch platforms or debris netting on scaffolds and open edges.
3. Set up exclusion zones with barricades and signs below overhead work, and keep people out while it is under way.
4. Tether tools at height, and keep materials stacked and secured away from edges and openings.
5. Lower debris in containers or through enclosed chutes instead of throwing it from height.
6. Wear hard hats wherever objects could fall from above, including when passing beneath scaffolds and cranes.

Where it comes up on the job

Work steps from SafetyDocs templates that deal with falling objects:

• Falling objects (collapsing clutter)Bodily injuriesFrom Hoarder Cleaning Plan
• Work area set-upSet up exclusion zones and edge protection, and protect people below from falling objectsFrom Roofing - Tiled
• Installing pipeworkInstall pipework, controlling falling objects, tools, cutting and silica dustFrom Plumbing Suspended Pipework
• Ceiling installationInstall the ceiling from safe trestles and ladders, controlling electricity, falling objects, cuts and silica dustFrom Suspended Grid System Ceiling Installation
• Installing replacement partsInstall replacement parts from the EWP, guarding against falls and falling objects.From Cool Room Repair

Questions for the crew

1. Where could falling objects come up on this job today?
2. Is any of this work on today's job: Falling objects (collapsing clutter)?
3. The most effective control is: “Pre-assemble or prefabricate at ground level to reduce the tools and materials needed at height”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
4. Which controls for falling objects are missing or not working on this site?
5. When would you stop work because of falling objects, and who would you tell?
6. How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?