Preventing Tool Drop Incidents

• Tools falling from ladders, lifts, platforms, or scaffolds
• Materials kicked or bumped from elevated surfaces
• Workers struck by objects from above
• Unsecured tool bags, buckets, or hardware
• Poor housekeeping on elevated work areas
• People walking beneath active overhead work

Dropped tools can cause serious injuries even when the tool is small. A wrench, drill bit, bolt, tape measure, or hand tool dropped from height can strike with enough force to injure a worker below.

Tool drop prevention should be planned before work begins. Workers should identify what tools, parts, and materials will be used at height and how they will be carried, stored, and secured.

Tools should not be balanced on ladders, rails, beams, ductwork, shelves, equipment, or lift platforms. If a surface is not designed to hold tools safely, it should not be used as a temporary storage area.

Tool lanyards, buckets, pouches, magnetic trays, covered containers, and secured bags can help prevent tools and small parts from falling. The method used should match the task and the weight of the item.

Exclusion zones may be needed below elevated work. Workers should avoid walking under active work areas, and barriers or warning signs should be used when overhead hazards are present.

Housekeeping matters at height. Loose fasteners, scrap material, packaging, extension cords, and unused tools can be kicked, blown, or knocked off elevated surfaces.

Communication is important when tools or materials must be raised, lowered, or passed between workers. Tossing tools or rushing handoffs increases the chance of drops.

Preventing dropped objects protects everyone on the job, not just the person using the tool. Good tool control keeps the work organized and reduces the chance of a serious struck-by injury.

• Secure tools and small parts when working at height.
• Do not balance tools on rails, ladders, or equipment.
• Use tool bags, pouches, buckets, or lanyards when needed.
• Keep elevated work areas clean and organized.
• Set up exclusion zones below overhead work.
• Communicate before raising or lowering tools.
• Keep people out from under active work areas.

• What tools or materials could fall during this task?
• Are tools being stored or secured properly at height?
• Is an exclusion zone needed below the work area?
• Are workers below aware of overhead work?
• Is housekeeping good enough to prevent loose items from falling?