Skip to main content

Form library · Health and safety

Fall protection plan template

A fall protection plan for one US construction site, filled in on a phone as you walk the job. Each work area at height gets its height, the edge, the protection chosen and the checks that go with it: guardrail height, net distance, fall clearance, cover marking, warning line distance. Anchorage points go in under each area with the rating from the manufacturer or engineer. Then the rescue plan, the training certification record and an equipment log. For the anchors themselves, there is also a roof anchor inspection form.

For superintendents, foremen, roofing and framing contractors and safety managers who need a written plan for the work at height on a US job, and a record that the protection is in place.

Written for US OSHA rules. In Great Britain, use the working at height risk assessment and the rescue plan instead.

  • Each work area: height, edge, the protection chosen and a result, with photos
  • Checks that follow the method: top rail height, net distance, fall clearance, cover marking, warning line distance
  • Anchorage points with the rating as written by the manufacturer or engineer
  • Rescue plan, training certification record and equipment inspection log
  • The 1926.502(k) written plan pages for leading edge, precast and residential work, only when you need them
Try it blank ↓See it completed ↓Use it in SiteSurveyDownload the completed form (PDF)

Ready to use from the form library, and every question is yours to edit. Try it for a small trial fee, cancel any time.

Try it on your phone

Try it on this phone

Fill in the fall protection plan on your phone now

See how the fall protection plan looks on your phone

Scan the code with your phone camera. It opens the real form, no sign-up needed.

Open the live example and fill it in, just as your team would on site. No sign-up needed.

See it on this phone

Every question is editable. Add this form to your account, then change the wording, add or remove questions and options, and make it fit your own jobs.

Or start your trial with this form ready →

One email, and we won't add you to a mailing list.

What is a fall protection plan under OSHA?

A fall protection plan is useful when it is about this job: each roof, deck and opening with its height, the protection actually in place, who checked it and when. Put the guardrail height, the cover marking and the anchor rating in the record, not just the method name, and plan how someone hanging in a harness gets down.

Last updated . Facts checked by the SiteSurvey team on 27 October 2026 against OSHA 29 CFR 1926.501, duty to have fall protection (eCFR), OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502, fall protection systems criteria and practices (eCFR) and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.503, training requirements (eCFR).

How to write a fall protection plan for a site

Walk the job before work at height starts, and update the plan when the work moves to a new area.

  1. Set up the plan

    Enter the site, the employer and the work at height on the job. Choose the type of plan: a site plan using guardrails, nets, personal fall arrest and the other subpart M systems, or a written plan under 1926.502(k). Name the competent person.

  2. Add each work area

    Add the roof, deck, opening or shaft as an area. Record the height to the level below and the type of edge. Pick the protection, and the form asks the checks for that method.

  3. Record the anchors

    Where people tie off, add each anchorage point with its location, type and the rating or design reference from the manufacturer or engineer. Scan the label if there is one.

  4. Plan the rescue

    Say how someone hanging in a harness is reached and brought down, who does it, and where the equipment is. Calling 911 is not the whole plan.

  5. Train and inspect

    Record each person trained, the date and who trained them, with a signature. Log each harness, lanyard and lifeline checked, and anything taken out of service.

  6. Act and sign

    The form counts the problems found. Add actions with owners and dates, decide whether work at height can go ahead, and sign.

What makes a fall protection plan useful

Each work area: height, edge, protection chosen and the checks for that method

Gym re-roof in Omaha, 6 October: roof openings area, 24 ft to the gym floor, five plywood covers. Covers secured: No. Marked: No. The cover over the old fan opening at C4 had been slid aside for a cart and left loose with no marking. Screwed down at four corners and painted COVER by 7:40 am, and an action added to check every cover at the start of each shift.

Fictional example. Record the actual evidence and approved arrangements for your job.

A common recording mistake

Calling a generic company safety manual the fall protection plan, so nobody on site has written down where the edges and holes are, what protects each one, or how a suspended worker would be rescued.

What happens next

Walk the areas again whenever the work moves or the protection changes, inspect harnesses before each use, and add new crew to the training record before they go up.

Try the fall protection plan form live

Answer a few questions and watch it adapt. Your answers are not saved, and any photos you add are deleted within the hour.

Live form: Fall Protection PlanOpen full screen ↗
Fill it in right here

This is the real form as your team would use it: questions appear as you answer, scores work themselves out and you can add photos and signatures. No sign-up needed. Or open a completed example to see every answer, photo and score filled in.

Want to see one filled in? See a completed fall protection plan report (PDF), made by SiteSurvey from a fictional site visit.

Every question in the fall protection plan template

A US construction fall protection plan under OSHA subpart M: each work area at height with its height, edge and the protection chosen (guardrails, nets, personal fall arrest, covers, warning lines, safety monitoring, controlled access zones) with checks, anchorage points with their rated strength, the rescue plan, the training certification record and equipment inspections. Adds the 1926.502(k) written plan for leading edge, precast and residential work where conventional protection is infeasible. 7 sections and 141 questions. Follow-up questions and guidance appear only when an answer calls for them, so the person on site never sees the ones that do not apply.

Make it your own: every question is editable

This is a starting point, not a fixed form. Once it is in your SiteSurvey account you can reword any question, add or remove questions, sections and answer options, and add your own logo, so it fits the way your team works and the jobs you do.

Details you only enter once

Add this form to a project in SiteSurvey and it fills in what the project already knows, so nobody on site retypes it and every form on the job uses the same names. Anything filled in can still be changed.

  • Project: the project name
  • Site address: the site address, from the space or the project
  • Owner or client: the project's customer

Site and plan details

  • ProjectShort answer

    Filled in from the project in SiteSurvey.

    Fills in from the project name
  • Site addressShort answer
    Fills in from the site address, from the space or the project
  • Owner or clientShort answer
    Fills in from the project's customer
  • Location (GPS)Short answer
  • Plan date*Date
  • Plan prepared by*Short answer
  • Employer*Short answer
  • General contractorShort answer
  • Work at height on this job*Tick all that apply
    • Roofing, low-slope
    • Roofing, steep
    • Framing or residential construction
    • Leading edge work (decking, floors)
    • Precast concrete erection
    • Steel erection
    • Overhand bricklaying
    • Formwork or reinforcing steel
    • Floor and roof holes, openings
    • Other
  • Type of plan*Choose one
    • Site fall protection plan (guardrails, nets, personal fall arrest and other subpart M systems)
    • Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)
  • Competent person for fall protection on site*Short answer

    Able to spot existing and predictable fall hazards, with authority to fix them at once (1926.32(f)).

  • How to reach themShort answer
  • Qualified person who prepared the plan*Short answer

    Degree, certificate or professional standing, or extensive knowledge and experience (1926.32(m)).

    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Plan covers fromDate
  • UntilDate
  • Where the plan is kept on siteShort answer
  • GuidanceOSHA construction rule. Anyone on a walking or working surface with an unprotected side or edge 6 feet or more above a lower level is protected by a guardrail system, a safety net system or a personal fall arrest system (29 CFR 1926.501(b)(1)). Roofs, holes, leading edges and other cases have their own rules in 1926.501(b). Scaffolds and ladders are covered by other subparts.
  • CheckTwo meanings of "fall protection plan". Most people use it for any site plan like this one. In OSHA subpart M, the written fall protection plan in 1926.502(k) is narrower: an option only for leading edge, precast concrete and residential work where the employer can show that guardrails, nets and personal fall arrest are infeasible or create a greater hazard. It is prepared by a qualified person for this site, and feasibility of at least one conventional system is presumed (1926.501(b)(2), (12), (13)).
  • CheckThe 1926.502(k) page appears after training and equipment. Fill it in fully: the reasons conventional protection cannot be used, the other measures, each controlled access zone and the people allowed in it.
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • GuidanceWorking in Great Britain? Use the work at height risk assessment instead: this plan follows US OSHA rules.

Work areas at height

  • GuidanceAdd each area where people work at height: a roof, a deck, a stair shaft, a floor with holes. Record the height, the edge, the protection chosen, then each anchorage point if personal fall arrest is used.
  • Work areas
    Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
    • Work area*Short answer

      For example: Roof, north half; Level 2 deck; Stair shaft.

    • Location on siteShort answer
    • Location (GPS)Short answer
    • Height to the lower level (ft)*Number

      From the walking or working surface to the level below. A photo measure is an estimate.

    • Height checkWorked out by the form
    • CheckUnder 6 ft the general duty in 1926.501(b) does not start, but holes still need covers against tripping and falling objects, and people above dangerous equipment need guardrails or equipment guards at any height (1926.501(b)(4), (b)(8)).
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Edge or hazard*Choose one
      • Unprotected side or edge
      • Leading edge
      • Hole or skylight
      • Wall opening
      • Low-slope roof edge (4 in 12 or less)
      • Steep roof edge (over 4 in 12)
      • Hoist area
      • Ramp, runway or walkway
      • Excavation, well, pit or shaft edge
      • Formwork or reinforcing steel
      • Above dangerous equipment
      • Other
    • Work done hereShort answer
    • Fall protection chosen*Tick all that apply
      • Guardrail system
      • Safety net system
      • Personal fall arrest system
      • Hole covers
      • Warning line system
      • Safety monitoring system
      • Controlled access zone
      • Positioning device system
      • Scaffold, ladder or aerial lift (other subparts)
      • Other
    • Why this method, and any other measuresNotes
    • GuidanceTop rail at 42 inches plus or minus 3 above the working level, with a midrail, screen or mesh where there is no wall or parapet at least 21 inches high; it holds 200 lb pushed out or down on the top edge. At holes, guardrails go on every unprotected side (1926.502(b)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Guardrail system”
    • Guardrail: top rail height measured (in)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Guardrail system”
    • Top rail checkWorked out by the form
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Guardrail system”
    • Midrail, screen or mesh in place (or a wall or parapet at least 21 in)?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Guardrail system”
    • Toeboards where objects could fall on people below?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Guardrail system”
    • GuidanceNets go as close as practicable under the work, never more than 30 feet below. Drop-test at the jobsite after installation and before use, when relocated, after major repair and every 6 months in one place, or keep a certification record. Inspect at least once a week and after anything that could affect the net (1926.502(c)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety net system”
    • Net: distance below the working level (ft)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety net system”
    • Net distanceWorked out by the form
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety net system”
    • Net proofChoose one
      • Drop test done at this installation
      • Certification record prepared
      • Not yet
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety net system”
    • Last weekly net inspectionDate
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety net system”
    • GuidanceRig so nobody can free fall more than 6 feet or hit a lower level. Inspect before each use and remove defective parts. Never tie off to a guardrail. Anything that has arrested a fall is removed from service until a competent person finds it fit for reuse (1926.502(d)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Personal fall arrest system”
    • Fall clearance needed, from the equipment instructions (ft)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Personal fall arrest system”
    • Clearance available below the anchor or working level (ft)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Personal fall arrest system”
    • Clearance checkWorked out by the form
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Personal fall arrest system”
    • Rigged for no more than 6 ft free fall?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Personal fall arrest system”
    • Anchorage points in this area
      Repeat for each anchor. Each one asks:
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Personal fall arrest system”
      • Anchor ID*Short answer
      • Where it isShort answer
      • Type*Choose one
        • Permanent roof anchor
        • Temporary roof anchor
        • Beam clamp or beam anchor
        • Anchor strap or sling on structure
        • Horizontal lifeline end anchor
        • Embedded or cast-in anchor
        • Other
      • Most people attached at onceNumber
      • Strength basis*Choose one

        From the manufacturer or engineer, never assumed (1926.502(d)(15)).

        • Rated by the manufacturer for at least 5,000 lb per person attached
        • Designed by a qualified person as part of a complete system with a safety factor of at least two
        • Not known
      • Rating or design reference as written by the manufacturer or engineer*Short answer
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Anchor labelScan a label: manufacturer, model, rating, install date, next inspection

        Optional. Scan the data plate or label to capture the numbers.

      • Independent of any anchorage used to support or suspend a platform?*Yes or No
      • Installed to the manufacturer or engineer instructions?Yes or No
      • Inspected onDate
      • Inspected byShort answer
      • Result*Choose one
        • Pass
        • Fail
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What is wrong and what was doneNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • an_flagWorked out by the form
      • Photos of the anchorPhotos
    • a_anchorsWorked out by the form
    • a_anchor_flagsWorked out by the form
    • GuidanceCovers hold at least twice the weight of people, equipment and materials that may be on them at one time (twice the largest axle load in roadways), are secured so wind, equipment or people cannot shift them, and are color coded or marked HOLE or COVER (1926.502(i)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Hole covers”
    • Covers in this areaNumber
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Hole covers”
    • Cover material and who sized itShort answer
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Hole covers”
    • All covers secured against displacement?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Hole covers”
    • All covers marked HOLE or COVER, or color coded?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Hole covers”
    • Which cover, what is wrong and what was doneNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • GuidanceWarning lines are only for roofing work on low-slope roofs, combined with guardrails, nets, personal fall arrest or a safety monitor. Set them at least 6 feet from the edge; with mechanical equipment, 6 feet from edges parallel to its direction of travel and 10 feet from edges perpendicular to it. Lines are flagged at 6 foot intervals or less, with the lowest point at least 34 inches and the highest no more than 39 inches above the roof (1926.501(b)(10), 1926.502(f)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Warning line system”
    • Warning line: smallest distance from the roof edge (ft)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Warning line system”
    • Mechanical equipment in use?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Warning line system”
    • Distance from edges perpendicular to the equipment travel (ft)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Warning line system” and “Mechanical equipment in use?” is Yes
    • Warning line distanceWorked out by the form
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Warning line system”
    • Flagged and at 34 to 39 in high?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Warning line system”
    • GuidanceA safety monitor is a competent person on the same surface, within sight, close enough to talk, with no other duties. No mechanical equipment where a monitor is used on low-slope roofing (1926.502(h)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety monitoring system”
    • Safety monitorShort answer
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety monitoring system”
    • Monitor has no other duties?Yes or No
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Safety monitoring system”
    • GuidanceA controlled access zone is allowed for overhand bricklaying, alongside leading edge work, or where a 1926.502(k) plan names it. Control lines for leading edge work go 6 to 25 feet from the edge (precast: 6 feet to 60 feet or half the member length, whichever is less; overhand bricklaying: 10 to 15 feet), flagged at 6 foot intervals or less (1926.502(g)).
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Controlled access zone”
    • Control line distance from the edge (ft)Number
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Controlled access zone”
    • Who may enter the zoneShort answer
      Shown when “Fall protection chosen” includes “Controlled access zone”
    • Competent person for this area*Short answer
    • Inspected on*Date
    • Protection in place before anyone starts work in this areaChoose one

      Systems are provided and installed before the work that needs them begins (1926.502(a)(2)).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Access to and from the area is protectedChoose one
      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Falling objects controlled where people work belowChoose one

      Hard hats plus toeboards, screens or guardrails, a canopy, or a barricaded area below (1926.501(c)).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Crew briefed on the protection for this areaChoose one
      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • a_failsWorked out by the form
    • a_ncWorked out by the form
    • Area resultWorked out by the form
    • Photos of the area and its protectionPhotos
  • Work areasWorked out by the form
  • At 6 ft or moreWorked out by the form
  • Anchorage pointsWorked out by the form
  • Problems found in areasWorked out by the form
  • Walk-round of the edges and openingsWalk Cam video with voice-to-text

    Optional. Film a guided walk-round on the SiteSurvey app.

Rescue plan

  • GuidanceThe employer provides for prompt rescue of anyone who falls, or makes sure workers can rescue themselves (1926.502(d)(20)). Plan how someone hanging in a harness is reached and brought down, with the equipment and people on site.
  • How a suspended worker is reached*Tick all that apply
    • Self-rescue device or self-rescue
    • Ladder
    • Aerial lift or scissor lift on site
    • Pre-rigged rescue system or rescue kit
    • Crane or man basket
    • Emergency services (911) as well as the site plan
    • Other
  • Rescue steps*Notes

    Who raises the alarm, who goes, what they use, how the worker is brought down.

  • Trained rescuers on each shift*Short answer
  • Where the rescue equipment is keptShort answer
  • Lift or ladder for rescue available whenever people are on PFAS?Yes or No
  • Rescue walked through or practiced on site?Yes or No
  • WhenDate
    Shown when “Rescue walked through or practiced on site?” is Yes
  • Directions for emergency servicesNotes

    Gate, cross streets, where to meet.

  • Nearest emergency roomShort answer
  • CheckThe plan relies on 911. Check that responders can reach someone hanging at this height with their own equipment, and how long that takes: the duty is prompt rescue (1926.502(d)(20)).
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant

Training certification

  • GuidanceEveryone who might be exposed to fall hazards is trained by a competent person. The written certification record holds the employee name, the training date and the signature of the trainer or the employer. Keep the latest one. Retrain when the site or equipment changes or someone shows they have not understood (1926.503).
  • Training record
    Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
    • Name or other identity*Short answer
    • EmployerShort answer
    • Training date*Date
    • Trained by (competent person)*Short answer
    • Relying on earlier training?Yes or No

      Then enter the date it was judged adequate as the training date.

    • Topics coveredTick all that apply
      • Fall hazards in the work area
      • Erecting, maintaining, taking down and inspecting the systems used
      • Use of guardrails, PFAS, nets, warning lines, safety monitoring, CAZs
      • Role in safety monitoring
      • Mechanical equipment limits on low-slope roofs
      • Handling and storing materials, overhead protection
      • Role in the fall protection plan
      • The subpart M standards
    • Signature of the trainer or employerSignature
  • People trainedWorked out by the form

Equipment inspection

  • GuidancePersonal fall arrest systems are inspected before each use for wear, damage and deterioration, and defective parts are taken out of service. Equipment that has arrested a fall stays out of service until a competent person finds it undamaged and fit for reuse (1926.502(d)(19), (21)). Follow the manufacturer for the detail of each check.
  • Equipment checked
    Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
    • Equipment ID*Short answer
    • Type*Choose one
      • Full body harness
      • Shock-absorbing lanyard
      • Self-retracting lifeline
      • Connector or locking snaphook
      • Horizontal lifeline system
      • Vertical lifeline and rope grab
      • Rescue kit
      • Safety net
      • Other
    • Equipment labelScan a label: manufacturer, model, serial number, date of manufacture, standard marked

      Optional. Scan the data plate or label to capture the numbers.

    • Issued to or used atShort answer
    • Inspected on*Date
    • Has it arrested a fall or taken an impact load?*Yes or No
    • Result*Choose one
      • In service
      • Removed from service
    • Defect found and what was doneNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • PhotosPhotos
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • Items inspectedWorked out by the form
  • Removed from serviceWorked out by the form
  • WarningAn item has taken an impact load but is marked in service. Record the competent person who found it fit for reuse, or take it out of service.
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant

Written plan under 1926.502(k)

  • GuidancePrepared by a qualified person for this site and kept up to date; changes approved by a qualified person; a copy with all approved changes kept at the job site; carried out under a competent person (1926.502(k)(1) to (4)).
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Why guardrails, nets and personal fall arrest are infeasible or create a greater hazard, at each location*Notes
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Other measures to reduce or remove the fall hazard*Notes

    For example how far scaffolds, ladders or vehicle mounted work platforms can give a safer working surface.

    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Each location where conventional protection cannot be used (each becomes a controlled access zone)*Notes
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Safety monitoring system used where no other measure is in place?*Yes or No
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Safety monitorShort answer
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)” and “Safety monitoring system used where no other measure is in place?” is Yes
  • Employees designated to work in the controlled access zones*Notes

    Names or other identification. Nobody else may enter.

    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Plan and latest changes approved by (qualified person)*Short answer
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Approved onDate
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Copy with all approved changes kept at the job site?*Yes or No
    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”
  • Falls or near misses investigated and changes made to the planNotes

    After a fall or other serious incident, investigate and change the plan if needed (1926.502(k)(10)).

    Shown when “Type of plan” is “Written plan under 1926.502(k) (leading edge, precast or residential work where conventional protection is infeasible)”

Actions and sign-off

  • Items needing actionWorked out by the form
  • ResultWorked out by the form
  • Actions
    Repeat for each action. Each one asks:
    • Action*Notes
    • PriorityChoose one
      • Now: stop work in the area
      • Today
      • Before the next shift
      • This week
    • Who will do it*Short answer
    • Due byDate
    • Status*Choose one
      • Open
      • In progress
      • Done, checked
    • Photo when donePhotos
      Shown when “Status” is “Done, checked”
  • Actions still openWorked out by the form
  • Decision*Choose one
    • Protection in place: work can go ahead
    • Go ahead once the listed actions are done
    • Stop work at height until fixed
  • Next check or re-inspection dateDate
  • Summary for the clientNotes
  • Competent person nameShort answer
  • Competent person signature*Signature
  • Site superintendent nameShort answer
  • Site superintendent signatureSignature

See it filled in

A completed fall protection plan report, made by SiteSurvey from a fictional site visit: every answer, the photos, the guidance that applied and the sign-off, ready to send as a PDF.

See completed form (PDF) ↗

Fall protection plan FAQs

At what height is fall protection required in construction?

Under OSHA's construction rule, anyone on a walking or working surface with an unprotected side or edge 6 feet or more above a lower level is protected by a guardrail system, a safety net system or a personal fall arrest system (1926.501(b)(1)). Roofs, holes, hoist areas, leading edges and other cases have their own rules in 1926.501(b). Scaffolds and ladders are covered by other subparts.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.501, duty to have fall protection (eCFR).

When can I use a 1926.502(k) fall protection plan?

Only for leading edge work, precast concrete erection or residential construction, and only where you can show that guardrails, nets and personal fall arrest are infeasible or create a greater hazard. OSHA presumes at least one of them is feasible. The plan is prepared by a qualified person for that site, says why conventional protection cannot be used, describes other measures, marks each location as a controlled access zone and names the people allowed in it. Choose this plan type on page 1 and the form adds those pages.

Sources: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.501, duty to have fall protection (eCFR) and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502, fall protection systems criteria and practices (eCFR).

How high should a guardrail be?

The top edge of the top rail is 42 inches plus or minus 3 inches above the walking or working level. It can be higher when conditions warrant if the system meets all the other criteria. A midrail, screen or mesh is needed where there is no wall or parapet at least 21 inches high, and the top edge must hold 200 pounds pushed outward or downward (1926.502(b)). Enter the height you measure and the form checks it.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502, fall protection systems criteria and practices (eCFR).

How strong does an anchorage point need to be?

An anchorage for personal fall arrest is independent of any anchorage used to support or suspend platforms, and either supports at least 5,000 pounds per person attached, or is designed, installed and used as part of a complete system with a safety factor of at least two under the supervision of a qualified person (1926.502(d)(15)). The form does not decide this: you enter the rating or design reference from the manufacturer or engineer.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502, fall protection systems criteria and practices (eCFR).

Do I need a rescue plan as part of fall protection?

Yes, in effect. Where personal fall arrest is used, the employer provides for prompt rescue of anyone who falls, or makes sure workers can rescue themselves (1926.502(d)(20)). The form asks how a suspended worker is reached, who does it and where the equipment is. For a fuller rescue plan, use the working at height rescue plan.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502, fall protection systems criteria and practices (eCFR).

What training records does OSHA expect for fall protection?

A written certification record for each employee who might be exposed to fall hazards, with the name or other identity, the date of training and the signature of the trainer or the employer. Keep the latest one, and retrain when the site or equipment changes or someone shows they have not understood (1926.503). The training page holds one record per person with a signature.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.503, training requirements (eCFR).

Related

Safety inspections softwareHarness inspection checklistRoof anchor inspectionWorking at height rescue planSite specific safety planWorking at height risk assessment (UK)Roofing installation checklistAll forms in the library

Related templates

Templates that go with the fall protection plan form

Harness inspection checklist

Inspection record for a scaffold, ladder, harness and lanyard or pallet racking. The checks change with the equipment, with defects, photos and a result.

6 sections · 78 questions · See every question →
Roof anchor and eyebolt inspection

A roof anchor, eyebolt and safety line inspection: each anchor device with its type and location, visual and fixing checks, test where required, label, pass or withdrawn, and the next examination date.

3 sections · 58 questions · See every question →
Working at height rescue plan template

A work-at-height rescue planning record linking credible scenarios, competent responders, approved methods, equipment readiness and briefing evidence.

6 sections · 36 questions · See every question →
Site-specific safety plan template

A written site-specific safety plan for one US construction job: project and contacts, competent persons by topic, each site hazard (falls, excavations, electrical, struck-by, caught-in, cranes, scaffolds, silica, heat, hazardous materials) with its controls, the programs it relies on, orientation and training, PPE, inspections with the frequencies you set, incident reporting and OSHA recordkeeping, subcontractor requirements, emergency information with the nearest hospital, actions and sign-off, and a worker acknowledgement.

12 sections · 153 questions · See every question →

Browse all 409 forms in the library

Use this fall protection plan form with your team

Add it from the form library in one click, change any question, and every completed form becomes a branded PDF report.

Start your trial →