Fall hazard A fall hazard is anything that can cause a worker or pedestrian to slip, trip, or fall.
Common sidewalk hazards include open excavations, uneven slabs, wet surfaces, tools, cords, and lifted sections of concrete. Managing fall hazards is a basic safety step on NYC sidewalk jobs, especially where foot traffic passes close to the work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall hazard
What counts as a fall hazard on a sidewalk job?
Open excavations, uneven or removed slabs, wet surfaces, loose tools, hoses and cords, and abrupt level changes at the work edge.
Who is at risk?
Both workers and passing pedestrians, since sidewalk work happens in public space with foot traffic close by.
How are fall hazards managed?
Physical barriers around openings, clear routing of pedestrians, housekeeping of the work area, and covering or backfilling excavations when work pauses.
What about the gap after form removal?
It should be backfilled promptly, since an unfilled edge along the new slab is a common and easily avoided hazard.