Join the National Safety Stand-Down May 6−10

Fatalities caused by falls from elevation continue to be a leading cause of death for construction employees, accounting for 366 of the 971 construction fatalities recorded in the U.S. in 2017 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data). The National Safety Stand-Down raises fall hazard awareness across the country to stop fall fatalities and injuries.

What is a safety stand-down?

A safety stand-down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Any workplace can hold a stand-down by taking a break to focus on fall hazards and reinforcing the importance of fall prevention. It can also be an opportunity for employees to talk to management about fall and other job hazards they see.

Who can participate?

Anyone who wants to prevent hazards in the workplace can participate in the stand-down. In past years, participants included commercial construction companies of all sizes, residential construction contractors, sub- and independent contractors, highway construction companies, general industry employers, the U.S. military, other government participants, unions, trade associations, institutes, employee interest organizations and safety equipment manufacturers.

How to conduct a safety stand-down and FAQs

Companies can conduct a safety stand-down by taking a break to have a toolbox talk or another safety activity such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans or discussing job specific hazards. Managers are encouraged to plan a stand-down that works best for their workplace anytime. See Suggestions to Prepare for a Successful “Stand-Down” and Highlights from the Past Stand-Downs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also hosts an Events page with events that are free and open to the public to help employers and employees find events in their area.

If you plan to host a free event that is open to the public, see OSHA’s Events page to submit the event details and to contact your Regional Stand-Down Coordinator.

Certificate of participation

Employers will be able to provide feedback about their stand-down and download a certificate of participation following the stand-down.

Share your story with OSHA

Share your stand-down story on social media with the hashtag #StandDown4Safety.