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https://prod.org.br/doi/10.1590/0103-6513.20180091
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Systematic Review

Falls from height: analysis of 114 cases

Tomi Zlatar; Eliane Maria Gorga Lago; Willames de Albuquerque Soares; João dos Santos Baptista; Béda Barkokébas Junior

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Abstract

Abstract: Paper aims: To study fall-accident cases in order to analyze the commonly missing or not adequately applied risk management measures (RMM) and its consequences depending on falling height.

Originality: First study to analyze failed RMM for preventing falls from height.

Research method: The study reviewed court cases published by the journal “Safety & Health Practitioner”. NIOSH recommendations were used to define RMM to apply to this study.

Main findings: Finally, in 98% of analyzed cases, the fall from height was a result of several non-adequate or missing RMM: in 81.6% procedures of work, 65.8% guardrails and edge protection, 60.5% risk assessment, and 60.5% platforms or scaffolds. It can be concluded that falls from height pose a significant risk for workers, which could be prevented by adequately apply RMM.

Implications for theory and practice: The focus in the prevention of falls should be given on most common RMM.

Keywords

Injury, Fall accidents, Risk control, Workplace fatalities, Safety in construction

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