What does Struck-by Hazard mean?

A struck-by hazard refers to an accident in which a worker is hit and injured by an object, tool or equipment. Struck-by hazards are mostly related to improper material and equipment handling and poor housekeeping.

Struck-by hazards originate from many sources. The most common include:

• Accidental hits by cranes, heavy equipment and loader trucks etc.
• Falling, flying, slipping, rolling and swinging equipment and materials
• Poorly stacked heavy materials that may fall, slip and slide
• Concrete constructions while being constructed
• Poor housekeeping, such as a tools or equipment left on edges or shelves
• Objects leaning against walls or posts
• Unmarked low beams or pipes at site
• No screen guard at site for objects flying off
• Unusual work such as demolition of buildings, tree trimming, pruning and felling etc.

To reduce struck-by hazards at a workplace, the following preventive actions are recommended:

• Follow safety instructions and standard operating procedures
• Training of personnel that use the equipment and orientation with the workplace
• Strict supervision, monitoring and controlling
• Safety inspections and audits
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) by the workers, such as clothing, headgear, and safety glasses
• Marking all hazardous areas and have administrative control for visitors including notices and signs
• Maintaining good housekeeping, such as stacking and piling of materials appropriately
• Arrange appropriate nets to prevent or catch falling objects
• Secure tools and equipment with lanyards to the workers to prevent them from falling
• No lifting equipment or loads beyond an equipment’s designed capacity
• All lifting equipment must be tested and inspected before use