Fall Prevention vs Fall Protection

OSHA follows the hierarchy of controls when addressing fall hazards:

• Eliminate the hazard (for example: perform work from the ground)
• Use fall prevention methods (for example: guardrails)
• Use fall protection systems (for example: PFAS) when prevention is not possible

This means fall prevention is preferred whenever feasible, while fall protection is used when risks can’t be eliminated.

Which One Should Be Used?

• Use fall prevention on flat rooftops, platforms, or mezzanines where guardrails or barriers can be installed.
• Use fall protection during steel erection, tower climbing, or other tasks where prevention isn't possible.

A complete safety plan often includes both methods, depending on the task and location.