Falls through floor holes and skylights are preventable. Here is how to cover and manage openings.
In this article
Why openings are dangerous
Floor holes, shafts, stairwell openings and skylights are everywhere during construction. Workers carrying material often can't see where they step. Falls through openings are serious and often fatal.
OSHA cover requirements
OSHA requires covers strong enough to support at least twice the weight that may be placed on them, secured against moving, and marked with the word "HOLE" or "COVER." Know the details in the standard.
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Secure the cover
Screw or cleat covers so they can't slide or be kicked aside. A loose sheet of plywood is not a cover.
Mark clearly
Bright paint and the word HOLE or COVER warn everyone. Markings must stay visible.
Guardrails for larger openings
Large openings and floor edges need guardrails. Plan them before work begins.
Skylights
Skylights are not designed to hold a person. Cover or guard them.
Communication between trades
When one trade removes a cover to work, they must replace it. Make it a site rule.
Daily inspection
The superintendent checks covers on the morning walk.
Training
Teach crews never to remove or step on unknown covers.
Toolbox talk
"If you lift a cover, you put it back and secure it. If you see one missing, stop and report it."
Common mistakes
Unsecured plywood, faded markings and covers removed and not replaced.
Where to start
Walk the site today, list every opening and assign responsibility for each cover.
Who owns each opening
Assign every opening to a trade or to the GC's labor crew. When ownership is clear, covers get replaced. When everyone is responsible, nobody is.
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Frequently asked questions
What does OSHA require for hole covers in construction?
OSHA requires covers to support at least twice the weight of employees, equipment and materials that may be imposed, be secured against displacement and be marked with the word HOLE or COVER.