The importance of fall prevention in the manufacturing industry

The challenges of finding and maintaining skilled labor, controlling costs and maximizing production efficiency are constants in the manufacturing industry. From a business standpoint, workplace accidents significantly add to these challenges by impacting the availability of workers, increasing costs via replacement labor and repairs to damaged equipment, and decreasing productivity to manage the accident scene, which may require prolonged shutdowns and OSHA inspections. Additionally, no employer wants to endanger their workers, especially with a preventable risk.

When your manufacturing clients think of workplace accidents, falls are not often at the top of the list, which could be a costly oversight. This article will share insights into the importance of addressing fall prevention in manufacturing and provide actionable steps to help your customers mitigate the risks.

Understanding the impact and costs of falls

Fall injuries in manufacturing have a greater likelihood of resulting in a lost work claim and are 59% more expensive than the average workers’ compensation (WC) claim in manufacturing. ¹

According to OSHA data from 2022-2023, citations due to falls carry the costliest penalties of all citations in the industry, averaging $6,519 per citation. ² The fact is, despite technological advancements and strictly enforced safety measures, falls remain a significant concern, and manufacturers must prioritize fall prevention as a key safety initiative.

Marcello Presutti, Nationwide’s underwriting expert in manufacturing, emphasizes, “The cost of falls goes beyond the immediate medical expenses. Falls are preventable and can have adverse impacts on the morale of the workforce and potentially lead to long-term financial impact for the business.”

Types of falls in the workplace

Falls from same level

Just because a manufacturer hasn’t experienced a fall claim doesn’t mean their facility and workforce are safe, especially when common causes include:

• Uneven flooring, elevation changes, and damage to floor
• Presence of water, oil or grease on the floor
• Foreign substances such as plastic sheeting, packing material and extension cords

Falls from heights

Falls from ladders and elevated work surfaces are particularly hazardous. These incidents often result in severe injuries and higher claims costs. Proper safeguards, compliant physical barriers and active fall protection measures are essential to mitigate these risks.

The importance of fall prevention

Fall prevention in manufacturing is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a critical aspect of maintaining a safe and productive workplace. By prioritizing fall prevention, your manufacturing customers can protect their workforce, reduce costs and ensure operational continuity. Encourage your customers to not wait for an accident to happen Help them take proactive steps today to safeguard manufacturing facilities and employees.

To give your customers more information on preventing falls in manufacturing, encourage them to visit Nationwide’s Loss Control Services today.