Dropped object prevention: Safety solutions for hazardous environments

A dropped object is any object that falls from its previous position. Either under its own weight or because of an applied force like a collision.

When working at heights or on grated flooring, dropped objects can cause significant safety hazards.

We will explore the safety solutions for hazardous environments regarding dropped objects.

Understanding the risks of dropped objects in hazardous environments

Experts estimate that falling objects cause around 7000 reported non-fatal injuries. Dropped objects rank among the top 3 causes of workplace fatalities in the UK.

Hazardous environments are particularly susceptible to injuries from dropped objects. Whether this is dropping tools or machinery, this can cause a huge negative impact on productivity. It can harm the workers, as well as damaging the equipment.

This emphasises the danger of dropped objects and the importance of safety solutions.

Key causes of dropped objects

Understanding the key causes of dropped objects can help figure out how to prevent them.

• Inadequate risk assessment: Failure to identify dropped object hazards. A risk assessment can identify the equipment needed for each task. As well as increasing the workers awareness about the potential dangers of falling objects.
• Human factors: Operator error, poor behaviour and complacency can lead to dropped objects. Ensuring workers receive adequate training in how to operate machinery and awareness of hazards can improve safety.
• Improperly stored tools: Incorrectly stored or unsecured tools can lead to dropped object incidents. Securing all tools with tool lanyards will help prevent this.
• Poor housekeeping: Employees should keep workplaces and toolkits organised and tidy. Loose tools and equipment can post as an unexpected risk to other workers.
• Failed fixtures and fittings: Improperly fitted or failed bolted connections can lead to a fatal dropped object incident.
• Collusions: Moving equipment, lifting and tag lines can cause a collusion. Breakages or dropped objects can occur from the impact of a collusion.
• Environmental factors: The effects of extreme weather conditions are more pronounced in exposed areas. For example, working at height on oil rigs. This can compromise the stability of equipment and tools.

How to prevent causes of dropped objects

Training and awareness

Inadequate training or awareness of hazards can result in compromised safety. Workshops and training can give workers an outline of falling object hazards. As well as helping create a more competent, safety-conscious workforce.

Providing training will reduce the likelihood of dropped objects and ensure workers know what to do if it does occur.

Regular risks assessments

Carry out regular risk assessments to identify and control risk. These assessments should identify any potential hazards in the workplace. Especially where dropped objects are more likely to occur. This could include:

• Identifying corrosion damage
• Ensuring workers are wearing personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Confirming the working environments are up to standard
• Evaluate the likelihood of falling objects and the consequences
• Checking the equipment is in a suitable condition

Conduct risk assessments regularly or whenever there are changes in the environment or equipment.

This will help reduce dropped object incidents and show a commitment to maintaining a safe environment.

Tool tethering system

Utilise tool lanyards, tool tethers, tool pouches or other drop containment devices to secure tools while working at height.

Working platforms

When possible, lower the working platform to the ground. Perform all work at ground level and then lift it to position once complete rather than taking the tools and equipment to height.

Safety mats or ties

Use safety mats or ties to secure tools or to catch falling objects. Safety mats absorb the impact of any tools or items that might accidentally fall. They prevent damage to both the objects and the surface underneath.

XDROP drop prevention

At REGALTAG, our XDROP range includes durable drop-prevention Work Mats with a range of accessories.

The range handles a wide variety of drop risks.

• XDROP Pro: This dropped object prevention work mat is used in workspaces with grated flooring and open handrails. It stops small tools, bolts and other items falling through the decking grid.
• XDROP Mat Connect: This mat prevents accidents by stopping equipment from falling through grating and causing injuries. Designed so you can endlessly connect mats together to cover a larger area.
• XDROP Mat Lite: This mat offers a simple and effective solution to prevent small tools, bolts and other items from falling through decking grids. Ideal for contractors working on specific projects.

Dropped objects are among the leading causes of workplace fatalities. By implementing the XDROP range you can enhance safety at height and reduce incidents.

The cost of dropped object incidents: Why prevention pays off

Dropping and losing tools incurs costs for damage and replacement.

The cost of the tools isn't the only aspect that affects the situation. Dropped objects cause a serious threat to workers safety. If an incident results in worker injuries or fatalities, the business may face medical expenses and workers’ compensation claims. Additionally, the business could incur potential legal liability.

You can reduce these risks by installing adequate safety systems. Additionally, make sure that workers receive proper training.

Dropped object solutions from REGALTAG

You can take control of your company's safety processes and prevent drop-related accidents in the workplace. You can easily and efficiently prevent drops using our XDROP drop prevention products.

At REGALTAG®, we help brands working in the harshest environments. By offering the most durable, custom safety tagging and dropped object prevention solutions.

If you’re looking for a solution that helps control your procedures and maximise safety, get in touch with our team of experts today.