OSHA will host a National Safety Stand-Down for Fall Prevention in Construction On June 2-6, in order to raise awareness about the hazards of falls – the leading cause of death in the construction industry. During the week, employers and workers are asked to voluntarily stop work to discuss fall prevention, including topics such as safe work on roofs, ladders and scaffolds.

"Falls account for more than a third of all deaths in this industry," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "We're working with employers, workers, industry groups, state OSH plans, and civic and faith-based organizations to host safety stand-downs that focus on recognizing hazards and preventing falls.

“Almost 300 construction workers were killed in falls in 2012. Thousands more were seriously injured,” said Secretary of Labor Tom Perez in a recent video statement. “Now is the time to focus on this vital safety issue. The economy is on the rebound, housing starts are on the rise, and the summer construction season is getting underway.”

To learn how to partner with OSHA in this stand-down, visit http://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/. The page provides details on how to conduct a stand-down; receive a certificate of participation; and access free education and training resources, fact sheets and other outreach materials in English and Spanish. To learn more about preventing falls in construction visit http://www.osha.gov/stopfalls/.

After participating in the stand-down, employers can also visit the page to receive their official certification of participation.

For more information visit www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown.