PREVENT DROPPED OBJECTS WITH 3Ts Luck is bad policy. Drops will happen. Gravity doesn’t discriminate. Whether it’s your first day on the job, or you’re a 20-year vet, drops will happen. The most serious nuclear threat in the history of the U.S. came from a single nine-pound wrench socket that was dropped by an airman performing maintenance on a Titan II missile. The socket fell 70 feet, ripping a hole in a fuel tank and leading to an explosion that forced a 9-megaton warhead out of the ground. The explosion killed one and injured about 20 more. With over 250 fatalities annually, and nearly 48,000 reported injuries from dropped objects in the United States in 2016 (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the need to address dropped objects has never been greater. It’s important to consider the risk factors that contribute to dropping tools when working at heights: • Elements (wind, rain, snow, sea motion). • Body effects (sweaty or numb hands, fatigue) • Gut reaction trying to catch a falling object • Tool pulling worker down with it if tethered improperly • Poor Housekeeping It’s about prevention: Just as human fall prevention gives us the ABCs —Anchor, Body Support, Connectors—dropped object prevention gives us the 3Ts: Trapping, Tethering & Topping. Trapping describes the installation of retrofit attachment points on tools and primary anchoring locations — the majority of tools don’t come with them built in. Anchor attachments should be installed onto locations that are secure and are never intended for heavier tools if applied to the individual. Tethering is the retention of the tools and equipment being used to the anchor points that hold them. Topping consists of the containers workers use to bring tools and equipment to and from heights. • Tool pouches and bags are typically carried on individuals to keep their contents at hand while working. These often remain stationary. • Hoist buckets and bags are transferred by a different means, typically lifting them in a portable fashion to and from heights. These containers, regardless of type or mode of transportation, should have a secure closure or “top” that can cover contents and prevent them from spilling if tipped. SAFETY
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