www.rcabc.org  l  27 A fall-restraint system prevents a worker from falling from a work posi- tion, or from travelling to an unguarded edge from which a fall could occur – for example, a fall-restraint belt or full- body harness that attaches a worker to an anchor. A system that arrests a worker’s fall within 12 inches is also considered to be a restraint system. A fall-arrest system protects a worker after they fall by preventing the worker from hitting a surface below. An example of this system is a full- body harness connected to lifelines, which are in turn attached to secured anchors. A fall-arrest system, in order to be effective, should not allow a free fall of greater than six feet. In addition, the inclusion of a shock-absorbing lanyard greatly reduces the impact to a worker’s body during a fall. Work procedures acceptable to WorkSafeBC can be found in the guide- lines and include safety monitoring systems. It’s important to note that just because a part of the work process makes the use of work procedures the only practical system of fall protection, that doesn’t necessarily mean the whole job can be conducted using this system. The safest system should always be used when practicable for each stage of work. When employers accept projects that involve working at heights, they are also accepting the specific responsibili- ties that accompany the added risk their workers will face to complete the job. Developing and implementing a thor- ough fall protection plan that’s under- stood by everyone at the work site is an integral part of the process toward ensuring every worker returns home safely at the end of their shift. WorkSafeBC recently published a new online interactive infographic that illustrates information about the top five job types within construction with the most accepted time-loss claims as a result of falls from heights, from 2012- 2016. Six new ladder-safety videos have also been created to remind workers, employers and homeowners to use them safely. For more information, visit www.worksafebc.com. FEATURE Learn how to use ladders and scaffolding safely at worksafebc.com/construction Falls from heights are the leading cause of injuries to construction workers in B.C. Make sure you and your workers have the proper training, fall protection, and equipment to stay safe on the jobsite.