WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Construction workers across the nation will pause work and participate in the 13th National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, during the week of May 4-8.

Falls on construction sites are preventable, and workers and their employers have spent over a decade standing down to prove it.

"Falls remain the leading cause of death in construction; one construction worker dies every day from a fall to a lower level," said NIOSH Director John Howard, M.D. "The National Safety Stand-Down is a chance to collectively take a break during the workday to focus on fall prevention through safety demonstrations, talks, trainings, and other activities that contribute to a safer workplace."

Employers of all sizes can participate in the Stand-Down and contribute to a positive work culture and a safer working environment: Multiple, free tools and resources are available, in both English and Spanish:

Drills and practices

Toolbox talks

Lunchtime presentations

Webinars and video presentations

Equipment inspections

Trainings and demonstrations

Infographics and signage for job site

Resources: One-Stop Stand-Down Shop

Starting on May 4th, request a Certificate of Participation

The Stand-Down is a combined effort by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and CPWR—The Center for Construction Research and Training, through the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Construction Sector Council, working in collaboration with many partners.
Stand-downs have occurred in every state in the U.S. and internationally. Thousands of companies have participated in the Stand-Down over the years reaching millions of workers. Many have shared their success stories.

NIOSH is the federal institute that conducts research and makes recommendations for preventing work-related injuries, illnesses and deaths. See Construction Falls: Progress and Prevention | NIOSH Science Bulletin | CDC for more information about construction falls, and for information about NIOSH visit www.cdc.gov/niosh.