WorkSafeBC urges construction employers to prevent falls from heights
More than 1,000 construction workers were injured in falls from elevation in 2024.
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With the arrival of spring and the increase in outdoor construction, WorkSafeBC is reminding employers and workers that falls from heights continue to be a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities.
From 2020 to 2024, there were over 5,400 injury claims in the construction sector from falls from elevation, including almost 1,900 serious injuries and 35 fatalities. Over 1,000 construction workers were injured due to falls from elevation last year.
Beyond the human cost, employers have faced financial consequences — WorkSafeBC issued 152 administrative penalties for inadequate fall protection in 2024 alone, totalling $1,069,720.
“Falls from elevation can happen from a roof or scaffold to a ladder or truck bed — often due to inadequate protection, not following safe-work procedures, or hazardous conditions,” says Barry Nakahara, Director of Prevention Field Services at WorkSafeBC. “But these incidents are largely preventable with proper planning, supervision, training, and consistent use of fall protection.”
WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation requires fall-protection systems when workers are at risk of falling three metres or more — or at any height where a fall could cause injury.
Construction Industry Focus
Preventing falls from elevation in construction remains a key focus area for WorkSafeBC. To reduce these risks, WorkSafeBC is conducting proactive, unannounced inspections in construction worksites across the province. These inspections will focus on ensuring fall protection measures are in place and that employers are effectively managing the most significant risks to workers.
Fall Protection Resources for Employers
Proper planning, supervision, and training, along with the correct use of fall protection equipment, can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Employers are responsible for identifying and assessing workplace hazards and implementing necessary controls to protect workers.
WorkSafeBC offers a range of resources to help construction employers develop fall protection plans tailored to their worksites.
For more information, visit:
- Falls from elevation
- Resources to help construction employers create fall protection plans specific to their worksites
April marks Construction Month in B.C., a time to recognize the vital role the industry plays in our province.
About WorkSafeBC WorkSafeBC engages workers and employers to prevent injury, disease, and disability in B.C. When work-related injuries or diseases occur, WorkSafeBC provides compensation and support to people in their recovery, rehabilitation, and safe return to work. We serve 2.7 million workers and 285,000 employers across B.C.
For more information, contact:
Media Relations, WorkSafeBC
Email: media@worksafebc.com
Tel: 604.276.5157