Historically, falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction, accounting for about one-third of all fatalities in the industry. OSHA recognizes that incidents involving falls are generally complex events, frequently involving a variety of factors. The standard for fall protection relates to the human and equipment-related issues to protect workers. The 6-foot rule means that for workers working at heights of 6 feet or greater above a lower level. This applies at heights of less than 6 feet when working near dangerous equipment, for example, working on machinery with open drive belts, pulleys or gears or open vats of degreasing agents or acid.
