With less than three weeks to go before its National Safety Stand Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, the “Events” section on the portion of the OSHA website devoted to the stand down is largely empty.

The following states show no Stand-Down activities listed:

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Maine
Mississippi
Montana
New Hampshire
Nevada
North Carolina
North Dakota
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington state
West Virginia
Wyoming

Additionally, there are no online events listed.

The Stand-Down, which this year is being held May 8-12, is an effort by OSHA to raises awareness about fall hazards and prevent fall fatalities and injuries in the construction industry.

Why it matters

Fatalities caused by falls from elevation are the leading cause of death for construction employees, accounting for 350 of the 937 construction fatalities recorded in 2015 (BLS data). 

During the Stand-Down, employers are encouraged to take a break and talk with employees about hazards, protective methods, and the company's safety policies and goals.

In Elk Grove Village, Illinois, for instance, an event is planned for Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 10:15 a.m. that will have the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Apprentices Training Program presenting fall related information to carpenter apprentices.

The Stand-Down can also be an opportunity for employees to talk to management about fall hazards they see.

Who can participate?

In past years, participants included commercial construction companies of all sizes, residential construction contractors, sub- and independent contractors, highway construction companies, general industry employers, the U.S. Military, other government participants, unions, employer's trade associations, institutes, employee interest organizations, and safety equipment manufacturers.

Visit the OSHA website for resources to help you and your company participate in the Stand-Down.