From May 4-15, 2015, OSHA will be hosting its second annual National Safety Stand-Down to prevent falls in construction. According to OSHA, jobsite fatalities caused by falls from elevation accounted for 279 of the 806 construction fatalities recorded in 2012. Additionally, fall prevention safety standard violations were among the top 10 citations issued by OSHA in fiscal year 2014.

As part of this years’ initiative, OSHA is inviting companies, contractors, and employers of all sizes to conduct voluntary safety “Stand-Downs” focusing on fall hazards and fall prevention. A Stand-Down can be anything that enables employers to talk directly with their employees about fall safety. This includes toolbox talks, equipment inspections, or even direct discussions about specific jobsite fall hazards. Employers who participate in the Stand-Down will receive a Certificate of Participation signed by Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez.

Last years’ inaugural Stand-Down reached over one million workers nationally. OSHA’s goal this year is to reach 3 million workers through over 20,000 Stand-Downs between May 4-15. This amounts to reaching approximately 4 out of 10 construction workers throughout the nation.

For resources and more information about how to participate in this years’ initiative, visit here. You may also contact your Regional Stand-Down Coordinator for information about public Stand-Down events in your area.