When does OSHA allow for an exception to fall protection requirements?

OSHA allows for an exception to fall protection requirements when a greater hazard would be created by implementing fall protection measures. This recognition of the "greater hazard" exception means that in certain scenarios, protecting a worker with traditional fall protection systems could inadvertently expose them to other, potentially more dangerous situations. For example, if installing a roof requires workers to operate in a manner where harnesses could become tangled or snagged, leading to greater risk of injury, the enforcement of fall protection might be set aside in favor of ensuring worker safety through alternative means.

The situation highlights the principle that safety protocols should be flexible and adaptable to unique circumstances on the job site, acknowledging that what is typically safe might not always apply in every situation. This approach ensures that workers’ safety is prioritized and that practical considerations are taken into account when assessing risks.