ANSI/ISEA Updates Voluntary Standard for Dropped Object Prevention Solutions
Recently updated ANSI/ISEA 121-2023 standard aims to enhance worker and facility protections from dropped objects on jobsites. The ANSI/ISEA 121-2023 – Dropped Object Prevention Solutions standard outlines minimum requirements for the design, performance, testing, and labeling of preventive measures against dropped objects, according to an ISEA press release. An abstract of the standard indicates that falling objects cause hundreds of worker deaths and tens of thousands of injuries each year.
“More industries face risks from falling objects than from human falls,” Nate Bohmbach, senior director of product management at Ergodyne and leader of ISEA’s Dropped Objects Prevention Group, stated in the release.
This standard prioritizes active solutions, such as securing objects with tethers or containing them at height, rather than relying on passive strategies or merely using personal protective equipment. It provides clear guidance to reduce the risk of dropped object incidents by addressing four types of active-control equipment:
- Anchor attachments: Designed to be installed on structures, equipment, or workers to provide secure connection points for tethering.
- Tool attachments: Designed to be installed onto tools or equipment to provide secure connection points for tethering.
- Tool tethers: Lanyards or materials designed to connect tools to approved anchor points.
- Containers: Items such as buckets, pouches, and bags designed to transport tools and equipment to and from height.
Securing your tools and materials at heights is crucial in preventing injuries and accidents. In 2022 alone, falling objects were responsible for 238 deaths and 52,000 injuries worldwide.
News Courtesy: ISEA
