What are the primary causes of falls in older adults. How can seniors reduce their risk of falling. What steps can be taken to fall-proof a home. How does exercise help prevent falls in the elderly. What role do medications play in fall risk for seniors. Why is vision and hearing health important for fall prevention. How can assistive devices help reduce fall risk in older adults.

Understanding the Prevalence and Impact of Falls in Older Adults

Falls among older adults are a significant public health concern, with more than one in four individuals aged 65 or older experiencing a fall each year. This statistic underscores the importance of understanding and addressing this issue. As people age, the risk of falling and related complications increases, potentially leading to severe health problems and long-term disability.

The consequences of falls can be far-reaching. A seemingly simple accident, such as tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet surface, can result in broken bones – a common occurrence among thousands of older adults annually. For seniors, fractures can be particularly problematic, often marking the beginning of more serious health issues and potentially leading to long-term disability.

The Psychological Impact of Falls

Beyond the physical consequences, falls can have a profound psychological impact on older adults. Many seniors develop a fear of falling, even if they haven’t experienced a fall before. This fear can lead to self-imposed restrictions on activities, including walking, shopping, or participating in social events. While the concern is understandable, it’s crucial to recognize that staying active is vital for maintaining overall health and, paradoxically, helps prevent falls.

Identifying the Root Causes of Falls in Seniors

Understanding the factors that contribute to falls in older adults is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. Several factors can increase the risk of falls:

• Age-related changes in sensory perception
• Chronic health conditions
• Cognitive impairment
• Physical changes in muscle mass and balance
• Medication side effects
• Environmental hazards

Age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reflexes can significantly impact an older adult’s ability to navigate their environment safely. As these senses become less sharp, the risk of misjudging distances or failing to notice obstacles increases.

Certain chronic health conditions can also contribute to fall risk. Diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or problems affecting the thyroid, nerves, feet, or blood vessels can impact balance and increase the likelihood of falls. Additionally, conditions that cause rushed movements, such as incontinence, may inadvertently lead to falls as individuals hurry to the bathroom.

The Role of Cognitive Function in Fall Risk

Cognitive health plays a crucial role in fall prevention. Older adults with mild cognitive impairment or certain types of dementia are at a higher risk of falling. These conditions can affect judgment, spatial awareness, and the ability to recognize and respond to potential hazards in the environment.

Physical Changes and Their Impact on Fall Risk

As people age, they may experience physical changes that increase their susceptibility to falls. Age-related loss of muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, can significantly impact strength and mobility. Problems with balance and gait are also common and can make it more challenging to maintain stability while walking or standing.

Another physical factor that contributes to fall risk is postural hypotension – a condition where blood pressure drops too much when transitioning from lying down or sitting to standing. This sudden drop in blood pressure can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, increasing the risk of falls.

The Importance of Foot Health and Proper Footwear in Fall Prevention

Foot health is often overlooked in fall prevention strategies, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and stability. Foot problems that cause pain can alter a person’s gait and balance, increasing the risk of falls. Similarly, unsafe footwear choices, such as backless shoes or high heels, can compromise stability and contribute to falls.

When considering fall prevention, it’s essential to pay attention to foot health and choose appropriate footwear. Comfortable, well-fitting shoes with non-slip soles can provide better traction and support, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Choosing the Right Footwear for Fall Prevention

When selecting shoes for older adults, consider the following factors:

• Proper fit: Shoes should have enough room for toes to move freely
• Low, wide heels: These provide better stability than high or narrow heels
• Non-slip soles: Look for shoes with rubber soles or other materials that provide good traction
• Secure fastenings: Laces, velcro, or buckles help keep the foot securely in place
• Supportive structure: Choose shoes that provide adequate arch support and heel cushioning

Medication Management: A Key Factor in Fall Prevention

Medications can play a significant role in increasing fall risk among older adults. Some medications can cause side effects such as dizziness or confusion, which can directly impact a person’s balance and coordination. Moreover, the risk of falling tends to increase with the number of medications a person takes.

It’s crucial for older adults and their caregivers to be aware of the potential side effects of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Regular medication reviews with healthcare providers can help identify and address any medications that may be contributing to fall risk.

Common Medications That May Increase Fall Risk

Several types of medications have been associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults:

• Sedatives and sleep aids
• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Certain blood pressure medications
• Medications that can cause dehydration (e.g., diuretics)
• Some over-the-counter antihistamines

If you or a loved one are taking any of these medications and experiencing dizziness, drowsiness, or balance issues, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust dosages, switch to alternative medications, or provide strategies to manage side effects and reduce fall risk.

Creating a Safe Home Environment to Prevent Falls

The home environment plays a crucial role in fall prevention for older adults. Many falls occur due to hazards in the living space that can be easily overlooked. By making some simple modifications and being aware of potential dangers, it’s possible to significantly reduce the risk of falls at home.

Key Areas to Address for Home Safety

1. Lighting: Ensure all areas of the home are well-lit, especially stairways and hallways. Consider installing night lights or motion-sensor lights for nighttime navigation.
2. Flooring: Remove or secure loose rugs and repair any uneven flooring. Keep floors clear of clutter and obstacles.
3. Stairs: Install handrails on both sides of staircases and ensure they are securely fastened.
4. Bathroom: Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub. Use non-slip mats in wet areas.
5. Kitchen: Rearrange frequently used items to be easily accessible without reaching or bending.
6. Bedroom: Ensure a clear path from the bed to the bathroom and keep a lamp within easy reach.

Regular home safety assessments can help identify and address potential hazards before they lead to falls. Consider enlisting the help of a family member, friend, or occupational therapist to conduct a thorough evaluation of the living space.

The Role of Physical Activity in Fall Prevention

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective strategies for preventing falls in older adults. Exercise helps improve muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination – all crucial factors in maintaining stability and preventing falls.

Engaging in regular exercise not only reduces fall risk but also contributes to overall health and well-being. It can help manage chronic conditions, improve mood, and enhance quality of life. For older adults concerned about falling, staying active is particularly important, as it helps maintain the physical capabilities necessary for independence and safety.

Effective Exercises for Fall Prevention

Several types of exercises can be particularly beneficial for fall prevention:

• Balance exercises: Tai chi, yoga, and specific balance training exercises
• Strength training: Using weights or resistance bands to build muscle strength
• Walking: A low-impact way to improve overall fitness and leg strength
• Flexibility exercises: Stretching to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness
• Functional exercises: Activities that mimic everyday movements to improve practical strength and balance

It’s important for older adults to consult with a healthcare provider or a physical therapist before starting a new exercise program. These professionals can help develop a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to individual needs and capabilities.

The Importance of Regular Health Check-ups in Fall Prevention

Regular health check-ups play a crucial role in fall prevention for older adults. These visits provide opportunities to assess overall health, identify potential risk factors for falls, and address any concerns before they lead to accidents.

Key Health Assessments for Fall Prevention

During regular check-ups, healthcare providers may perform several assessments related to fall risk:

• Vision and hearing tests: Even small changes in sensory perception can significantly impact fall risk
• Balance and gait evaluation: To identify any issues with stability or walking patterns
• Medication review: To assess potential side effects or interactions that could increase fall risk
• Blood pressure checks: Including measurements while lying down and standing to detect postural hypotension
• Bone density screening: To assess the risk of fractures in case of a fall
• Cognitive assessment: To identify any cognitive changes that could affect judgment and increase fall risk

These assessments can help healthcare providers develop personalized strategies to reduce fall risk and maintain overall health and independence.

Utilizing Assistive Devices to Enhance Safety and Mobility

Assistive devices can play a significant role in fall prevention by providing additional support and stability for older adults. When used correctly, these tools can enhance mobility, increase confidence, and reduce the risk of falls.

Common Assistive Devices for Fall Prevention

Several types of assistive devices can be beneficial for older adults:

• Canes: Provide support and balance for individuals with minor mobility issues
• Walkers: Offer more stability than canes and are suitable for those needing more support
• Rollators: Walkers with wheels that provide support while allowing for easier movement
• Grab bars: Can be installed in bathrooms and other areas to provide support during transfers
• Raised toilet seats: Make it easier to sit down and stand up from the toilet
• Shower chairs: Allow for seated bathing, reducing the risk of slips in the shower

It’s crucial to ensure that any assistive device is properly fitted and appropriate for the individual’s needs. A physical therapist or occupational therapist can provide guidance on selecting and using these devices effectively.

Proper Use of Assistive Devices

To maximize the benefits of assistive devices and ensure safety:

1. Ensure proper fit: Devices should be adjusted to the correct height for the user
2. Learn correct usage techniques: Seek instruction from a healthcare professional on how to use the device properly
3. Maintain the device: Regularly check for wear and tear, and replace parts as needed
4. Use consistently: Don’t avoid using the device out of pride or inconvenience
5. Adapt the environment: Make sure the home is arranged to accommodate the use of the device

By incorporating these strategies and being proactive about fall prevention, older adults can significantly reduce their risk of falls and maintain their independence and quality of life. Remember, falls are not an inevitable part of aging, and with the right precautions and support, many falls can be prevented.

Falls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention

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A simple accident like tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet floor can change your life. If you fall, you could break a bone, which thousands of older adults experience each year. For older people, a broken bone can also be the start of more serious health problems and can lead to long-term disability.

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If you or an older adult in your life has fallen, you’re not alone. More than one in four people age 65 years or older fall each year. The risk of falling — and fall-related problems — rises with age. However, many falls can be prevented. For example, exercising, managing your medications, having your vision checked, and making your home safer are all steps you can take to prevent a fall.

Many older adults fear falling, even if they haven’t fallen before. This fear may lead them to avoid activities such as walking, shopping, or taking part in social activities. But staying active is important to keeping your body healthy and actually helps to prevent falls. So don’t let a fear of falling keep you from being active! Learn about what causes falls and how to lower your risk of falling so you can feel more comfortable with staying active.

What causes falls in older adults?

Many things can cause a fall.

• Your eyesight, hearing, and reflexes might not be as sharp as they were when you were younger.
• Certain conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or problems with your thyroid, nerves, feet, or blood vessels can affect your balance and lead to a fall.
• Conditions that cause rushed movement to the bathroom, such as incontinence, may also increase the chance of falling.
• Older adults with mild cognitive impairment or certain types of dementia are at higher risk of falling.
• Age-related loss of muscle mass (known as sarcopenia), problems with balance and gait, and blood pressure that drops too much when you get up from lying down or sitting (called postural hypotension) are all risk factors for falling.
• Foot problems that cause pain, and unsafe footwear such as backless shoes or high heels, can also increase your risk of falling.
• Some medications can increase a person’s risk of falling because they cause side effects such as dizziness or confusion. The more medications you take, the more likely you are to fall.
• Safety hazards in the home or community environment can also cause falls.

Steps to take to prevent falls

If you take care of your overall health, you may have a lower chance of falling. Most of the time, falls and accidents don’t just happen for no reason. Here are a few tips to help lessen your risk of falls and broken bones, also known as fractures:

Read and share this infographic and help spread the word about how to help prevent falls.

• Stay physically active. Plan an exercise program that is right for you. Regular exercise improves muscles and makes you stronger. Exercise also helps keep your joints, tendons, and ligaments flexible. Mild weight-bearing activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, may slow bone loss from osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones weak and more likely to break
• Try balance and strength training exercises. Yoga, Pilates, and tai chi can all improve balance and muscle strength. You can also try lifting weights or using resistance bands to build strength. Learn more about different types of exercises to improve balance and strength.
• Fall-proof your home. Check out these tips for changes you can make to your home that will help you avoid falls and ensure your safety.
• Have your eyes and hearing tested. Even small changes in sight and hearing are linked to an increased risk for falls. When you get new eyeglasses or contact lenses, take time to get used to them. Wear your glasses or contacts as your eye doctor advises. If you have a hearing aid, be sure it fits well and wear it.
• Find out about the side effects of any medicines you take. If a drug makes you sleepy or dizzy, tell your doctor or pharmacist.
• Get enough sleep. If you are tired, you are more likely to fall.
• Avoid or limit alcohol. Too much alcohol can lead to balance problems and falls, which can result in hip or arm fractures and other injuries.
• Stand up slowly. Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop. That can make you feel wobbly. Get your blood pressure checked when lying and standing.
• Use an assistive device if you need help feeling steady when you walk. Using canes and walkers correctly can help prevent falls. If your doctor tells you to use a cane or walker, make sure it’s the right size for you. Walker wheels should roll smoothly. If you borrow walking support equipment from a friend, ask your health care provider to make sure the equipment is the correct size and is safe to use. This is exceptionally important when you’re walking in areas you don’t know well or where the walkways are uneven. A physical or occupational therapist can help you decide which devices might be helpful and teach you how to use them safely.
• Take extra caution when walking on wet or icy surfaces. These can be very slippery! Use an ice melt product or sand to clear icy areas by your doors and walkways.
• Keep your hands free. Use a shoulder bag, fanny pack, or backpack to leave your hands free to hold on to railings.
• Choose the right footwear. To fully support your feet, wear nonskid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes. Don’t walk on stairs or floors in socks or in shoes and slippers with smooth soles.
• Consider staying inside when the weather is bad. Some community services provide 24-hour delivery of prescriptions and groceries, and many take orders over the phone.
• Always tell your doctor if you have fallen since your last check-up, even if you did not feel pain when you fell. A fall can alert your doctor to a new medical problem or issues with your medications or eyesight that can be corrected. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy, a walking aid, or other steps to help prevent future falls.

What to do if you fall

Whether you are at home or somewhere else, a sudden fall can be startling and upsetting. If you do fall, stay as calm as possible and take the following steps:

• Breathe. Take several deep breaths to try to relax. Remain still on the floor or ground for a few moments. This will help you get over the shock of falling.
• Decide if you are hurt. Getting up too quickly or in the wrong way could make an injury worse.
• Crawl to a sturdy chair. If you think you can get up safely without help, roll over onto your side. Rest again while your body and blood pressure adjust. Slowly get up on your hands and knees, and crawl to a sturdy chair.
• Slowly sit down in the chair. Put your hands on the chair seat and slide one foot forward so that it’s flat on the floor. Keep the other leg bent so the knee is on the floor. From this kneeling position, slowly rise and turn your body to sit in the chair.
• Get help. If you are hurt or cannot get up on your own, ask someone for help or call 911. If you are alone, try to get into a comfortable position and wait for help to arrive. Prepare for a fall by keeping a well-charged cordless or mobile phone with you at all times and arrange for daily contact with a family member or friend. Emergency response systems are another option: These systems enable you to push a button on a special necklace or bracelet to call for help. Some smartwatches also have this feature.

Keep your bones strong to prevent fall-related fractures

Having healthy bones won’t necessarily prevent a fall, but if you do fall, healthy bones may help prevent serious injury, such as breaking a hip or other bone. Bone breaks and fracture can lead to a hospital or nursing home stay, long-term disability, or even death. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D can help keep your bones strong. So can staying active. Try to get at least 150 minutes per week of physical activity.

Other ways to maintain bone health include quitting smoking and avoiding or limiting alcohol use. Tobacco and alcohol use may decrease your bone mass and increase your chance of fractures. Additionally, try to maintain a healthy weight. Being underweight increases the risk of bone loss and broken bones.

Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones, making them thin and brittle. For people with osteoporosis, even a minor fall may be dangerous. Talk to your doctor about osteoporosis.

Falls are a common reason for trips to the emergency room and for hospital stays among older adults. Many of these hospital visits are for fall-related fractures. You can help lower your risk of fractures by keeping your bones strong and following the tips above to avoid falls.

For more information

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
800-232-4636
888-232-6348 (TTY)
[email protected]
www.cdc.gov

National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modifications
213-740-1364
homemods@usc. edu
www.homemods.org

Rebuilding Together
800-473-4229
[email protected]
www.rebuildingtogether.org

National Falls Prevention Resource Center
571-527-3900
www.ncoa.org/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-resource-center/

This content is provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA). NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

Content reviewed:
September 12, 2022

Related Articles

Fall Prevention & Home Safety Tips

Falls are costly and can cause serious injury or death.

Falling, slipping or tripping around the house is a serious concern for seniors.

Each year, more than one out of four adults age 65 and older falls. These falls cause moderate to severe injuries such as cuts, broken hips or head traumas in 20 to 30 percent of people. Injuries from falls can make it hard to get around or live independently, and they can increase the risk of early death.

Facts About Falls

• Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
• One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.
• Each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
• Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury.
• Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries.
• Most fractures among older adults are caused by falls.
• The most common are fractures of the spine, hip, forearm, leg, ankle, pelvis, upper arm, and hand.
• Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
• Many people who fall, even if they’re not injured, become afraid of falling. This fear may cause a person to cut down on their everyday activities. When a person is less active, they become weaker and this increases their chances of falling.
• The chances of falling and of being seriously injured in a fall increase with age.
• Men are more likely than women to die from a fall. After taking age into account, the fall death rate is approximately 40% higher for men than for women.

* According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Falls Prevention Resources

Falls Prevention Video

See small, inexpensive steps to take to make a home safer.

Falls Free CheckUp

Take this 2-minute Falls Free CheckUp to see what causes falls and how to prevent them.

Indiana Fall Prevention Coalition

Improving the well-being of Indiana older adults by raising awareness of fall prevention.

Help Prevent Fall Risks

This handout from INFPC offers exercises to reduce the risk of falls and a home assessment checklist.

6 Steps to Protect Your Loved One

If you have an aging parent, grandparent or neighbor in your life, help them reduce their risk of falling.

National Council on Aging: Falls Prevention

NCOA’s Resource Center supports the implementation of evidence-based falls prevention programs.

Home Safety Tips

• Don’t rush when doing a task. Accidents are more likely to occur when you are in a hurry.
• When changing positions, such as standing from a sitting position, count to 15 before starting to walk.
• Wear supportive shoes that have low heels and rubber soles: smooth-soled shoes, slippers or only wearing socks can increase your chances of falling.
• Make sure dresses, nightgowns and trousers are short enough in length to avoid tripping over them when walking. Also, be sure to roll back long, loose sleeves or fasten them with pins when cooking.
• Do you take four or more medications daily? Multiple medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness and balance problems. It is important to have all of your medications reviewed at least once a year by a pharmacist or doctor.
• Have your vision checked regularly/annually. Wear glasses as advised by your eye doctor.
• Have you or those around you noticed a change in your hearing? Dizziness can occur with hearing loss. Set up an appointment to have your hearing checked.
• Have daily contact with a family member, friend and/or neighbor. Also, consider having a home alert system installed.

Home Safety Modifications

BEDROOM

• Move bedside items/tables closer and arrange the room so that there is a direct path in/out and to the bathroom.
• Place night-lights in all bedrooms and bathrooms. Use night-lights that turn on automatically as the room becomes dark.
• Always keep a charged flashlight near your bed for emergencies.

BATHROOM

• Consider using a shower chair, tub-mounted grab bars and raised toilet seats with hand rails to assist with sitting and standing, hand-held shower attachment or wearing “aqua shoes.”
• Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on the shower floor.

KITCHEN

• Store commonly used items on shelves that are easy for you to reach. If you must reach overhead, keep a sturdy stool handy.
• Eliminate throw rugs, if possible. If necessary, use rugs with a nonskid backing or add double-sided carpet tape around edges.

STAIRS

• Install handrails on both sides of the steps. They should run the full length of the steps.
• Mark the top and bottom steps for better visibility with bright contrasting tape or paint.
• Be sure stairs are well-lit and light bulbs are checked regularly to be in working order. Install light switches at the top and bottom of stairs.

OUTSIDE

• Install sturdy handrails for all steps or, if necessary, a ramp with handrails.
• Also, make sure your porch has proper lighting and consider fixing uneven sideways/pathways.

Ready to reduce the risk of falls in your home?

We’re here to help. If you’re interested in home accessibility modifications and eligibility criteria, contact us today!

Safety measures in case of snow melting and icicles falling from the roofs of buildings

• Main
• Administration of the city of Norilsk
• Divisions
• Department of Civil Defense and Emergency Situations of Norilsk
• Useful information

In winter and spring, on the roofs of buildings,
accumulate a large amount of snow, and icicles may also form,
which reach a considerable size. Especially dangerous now
roofs and cornices decorated with “garlands” of ice icicles. Hanging from the rooftops, they
threaten human health and life.

The fall of a “sharp-nosed” ice on a person is fraught, at best
case, injuries of varying severity. It all depends on the altitude and
icicle size. There are cases when a dangerous “decoration” killed
passersby.
Every year, falling icicles claim the lives of dozens of Russians. There were cases that
icicles fell into a baby carriage left under a murderous “garland”.
It is clear that only a miracle saved the children from death. We just think that
icicles tightly “grow” to the roofs. In fact they are ready to fall in
any moment. Light thaw, wind and ice tend to fall on the heads
pedestrians.

To avoid accidents due to falling
icicles, you need to be careful, try not to move close to
walls of buildings, under balconies. It is worth avoiding the place of a possible fall
icicles or snow layers from the roof.

Being in the danger zone, a person can get hit by a falling
snow and icicles are very serious and dangerous injuries and even death.

To avoid this situation, you should:

• do not approach the roofs of buildings from which exit is possible
  snow, and not allow children to be in such places;

• warn children of danger. Playing under a dangerous roof
  may end sadly;

• in the presence of a fence, warning notices
  (signs) of a dangerous place, do not try to pass over the fence, go around
  dangerous place in another way;

• after falling snow, ice (icicles) from the edge of the roof, snow and
  ice can also come off the rest of the roof, so if you can see on the sidewalk
  traces of previously fallen snow, or ice fragments, this indicates a danger
  this place;

• if you heard upstairs while driving on the sidewalk
  suspicious noise – you can not stop, raise your head and look,
  what happened there. Perhaps this is the melting of snow or ice blocks. Run away from the building
  is also impossible, you need to snuggle up to the wall as quickly as possible, the roof peak will serve
  shelter;

• if an icicle or snow has fallen from the roof
  man, you need to call an ambulance.

Be alert and careful when near
buildings!

Prevention of falling objects when working at height

October 28, 2019

Tools

Safety

Accessories

Your employees may be perfectly safe when working at heights, but how do you protect their colleagues below? Falling tools and other objects are a big hazard that is not always given due attention. The following are clear guidelines for securing tools, preventing tools from falling, and improving workplace safety.

Problem:

Technicians in the metalworking and energy industries often work at heights. They have to climb to great heights to maintain a wind turbine or a high-rise building. Dropping even a small object in such a situation can cause serious injury. In the US alone, according to OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration), more than 50,000 people are injured each year as a result of falling objects.

From a legal point of view:

US law requires employers to educate and inform employees, both permanent and temporary, about workplace hazards. They are also required to take steps to prevent accidental dropping of equipment. If this is not possible, employers should provide a safe area under the work at height and keep people out of it. It is important to note that this approach should only be used as a last resort. The UK and other countries have similar laws. There is a conflict between traditional practice and legal requirements. Often the area under the work site is blocked off by fences, and people cannot walk there and be hit by falling objects. The main purpose of legislative measures, on the contrary, is to prevent the very fact of such falls.

When working at height, do not rely on the fenced area below to provide sufficient protection. The first step is to prevent the tools from falling.

Harald Odenman
,
Marketing Manager at Chicago Pneumatic

Tool Drop Prevention Measures

First of all, it is important to remember that wearing helmets is not enough. They should always be worn anyway, but they can only provide partial protection. Falling objects, except perhaps the smallest ones, can still cause injury. As we have said, fences should only be used in extreme cases. The correct solution is to implement special procedures and equipment designed to provide additional safety and prevent the tool from falling.

Essential tips for operators working at height

• Seek specialized training – employer must provide it
• Place items in securely closed containers or lifting bags and secure them to the attachment point at the top. Use hoists and cranes to lift equipment, not to move it. Do not climb ladders or other structures with tools in your pockets:
  • We recommend that you attach items weighing less than 2. 25 kg to your clothing using a tool belt, clips, cords or other means of attachment – or carry them in a secure case
  • We recommend securing equipment weighing more than 2.25 kg at a suitable attachment point on a stable structure, but do not attach to an employee!
  • This recommendation applies to phones, radios, tablets, laptops, tape measures and other devices.
• Be sure to bring all the correct tools, accessories and accessory changing equipment needed for the job (eg see our impact wrench bit recommendations). If necessary, replace accessories and consumables before lifting, but not at height.

General recommendations:

• Be sure to use all recommended protective equipment, including fall arrest devices, helmets, gloves and other PPE tools suitable for explosive atmospheres

Top Tips for Employers to Prevent Tool Drops

• Train operators first on agreed safety procedures
• Incorporate falling objects into safety training
• Consider falling objects as part of your workplace safety risk assessment
• Take action to address identified risks
• Provide operators with all the facilities listed in the previous list, including fixtures and anchor points, lifting gear and protective equipment
• Set up a safety net in a working area or fence off an area
• Keep up to date with new developments in safety equipment

Fall protection training must consider both the possibility of falling objects and the possibility of falling people.