SMC Top Plate Fall Protection in Framing

1. More than 40% of fatalities in construction were due to falls from a roof or ladder. When involved in roofing tasks, employees should not climb freely in or on framing. This includes walking on a top plate.

2. A Fall Protection Plan should be developed in accordance with labor laws and followed by employees.

3. Fall protection is to be provided by scaffolding, guardrails, safety net systems, or a personal fall arrest system.

4. Never walk on a top plate. Instead, scaffolding can not only give you access to higher levels, but also gives a working platform and can be used to avoid walking freely on a top plate. Scaffolds must be inspected prior to use.

5. Ladders are another alternative to gain access to higher work areas, but do not work on a ladder if you need to work sideways to get your work done.

6. If using guardrails on a project they must include top rails, uprights, midrails, and toeboards. Top rails must be 42"-45" and withstand 200 lbs of force, midrails must have a maximum of 19" of opening between the top rail and toeboard and withstand 150 lbs. of force, and toeboards must be at least 3-1/2" in height and withstand 50 lbs of force.

7. Always use fall protection on sloped roofs and 2nd floors. Personal Fall Arrest Systems include a body harness, lines, connecting devices, and must be tied to anchors to stop a fall.

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