Slips, Trips and Falls: Skylights Safety

Slips, Trips and Falls: Skylights

Preventing Falls through Skylights and Holes

Ask the following questions:

  1. Did you know that a skylight is considered an open hole?
  2. What are the hazards? Falls due to work near skylights and holes in floors or roofs
  3. What are the results? Broken bones, head injuries, internal damage, death
  4. What should we look for? All skylights are considered open floor holes unless they are covered with a cage or another protective system, or rated to stand on.

How do we prevent these results?

  • Guard or cover all holes with adequate guardrail systems or covers. Label covers (for instance, “HOLE”).
  • Use temporary barricades for work or permanent guarding system such as cage around skylights (see photo).
  • Ensure materials used for guardrail systems and covers are of adequate strength, meeting the OSHA standards.
  • Use fall protection PPE.

Ask the following questions about this site and ensure every item is covered.

  • What issues can lead to falls through skylights and holes? Unguarded skylights and holes, placing weight on skylight, no PPE used, etc.
  • Are there skylights or holes near your work area? Are they guarded or rated to walk on?
  • What makes an adequate guard? Materials used are of adequate strength, full railing system, cages, etc.
  • Is fall arrest or restraint systems provided here? Are you trained to use it?
  • If you are going to use fall arrest or restraint systems, what will be the anchor point?