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ABSTRACT
Among falls, falls from height, an elevated position or equipment, additionally those from elevated position, differ from that of a person suffering a surface fall. The second leading cause of fatalities after that of traffic accidents, it has heightened rate of seriousness depending on the occupational circumstances. Although avoiding the risk remains a very effective way to fight it, this approach has its limits. A large amount of suitable equipment meets the regulatory requirements, however it must also be used and verified in compliance with regulations.
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Read the articleAUTHORS
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Sophie ANDRÉ: Expertise and technical consulting (ECT) - French National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS)
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Alain PAMIES: Expertise and technical consulting (ECT) - French National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS)
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Patrick LAINE: Expertise and technical consulting (ECT) - French National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS)
INTRODUCTION
Falls from heights are the second leading cause of fatal accidents after traffic accidents. The risk of falling is characterized by a high severity rate. It is present when working at heights (falling over the edge, falling through materials, etc.) or working close to uneven surfaces (wells, trenches, etc.).
This risk has been identified for a very long time. Awareness of its seriousness is a function of professional situations and height.
A fall from a height of several metres has significant consequences, so the severity of the fall is well known to those involved. On the other hand, a fall from a low height, generally less than three meters, does not present the same level of risk awareness.
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