OSHA Fall Emphasis Program: What You Need To Know

Words: Dan Kamys

On May 1, the Department of Labor announced OSHA's new National Emphasis Program addressing falls. Falls are not only the top violation cited within construction, but also the leading cause of fatal workplace injuries.

The program is designed to reduce injuries and fatalities from falls, and will not be height or industry specific. In 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 5,190 fatal workplace injuries with roughly 13% of those deaths caused by falls. 

The program provides instructions for OSHA officers to open inspections designed to locate and inspect fall hazards when someone is observed working at heights. In addition to the inspection component, there will also be an outreach campaign designed to teach employers ways to keep their teams safe. Should an OSHA officer determine that there is not a need for inspection after observation, they will provide information on fall protection and leave the site. 

CLICK HERE TO READ THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR'S NEWS RELEASE
CLICK HERE TO READ A PDF OF THE NATIONAL EMPHASIS PROGRAM 
CLICK HERE TO SEE OSHA'S PAGE ON FALL PROTECTION

Contractor Tip of the Month: Get Used to the Pain
April 2026

Pain isn’t just negative; it’s a natural part of growing and improving. Instead of seeing pain as a reason to quit, recognize it as a sign you’re making progress. What sets successful people apart is their ability to stay calm and keep going when things g

Damian Lang
Contractor Tip of the Month
Read More
Fechino Files: Diesels Below 32 Degrees
April 2026

I am guessing that if you are reading this, then you experienced the cold, late-January spell that took over most of the country. The cold weather has many effects on the operations of a masonry contractor, from job shutdowns to equipment starting issues,

Steven Fechino
Fechino Files
Read More
Outreach Outlook: Building Momentum Across the Southern Region
April 2026

As April arrives, the pace of our outreach and workforce efforts across the Southern Region reaches a new level of intensity. This is the time of year when our programs, partners, and state collaborators all accelerate at once. SkillsUSA competitions are

Conner Birdsong
Outreach Outlook
Read More
Marvelous Masonry: Elbphilharmonie
April 2026

Most people know the Elbphilharmonie for its glass façade and dramatic roofline. From a distance, that’s what defines the skyline in Hamburg’s HafenCity district. But for masonry contractors and suppliers, the real story starts at the base.

Cass Stern
Marvelous Masonry
Read More
Interested in working with us? Learn about and join the Masonry Alliance Program →