Identification of Causes and Individuals at Risk of Falls during Vertical Formwork Operation in Construction

Abstract

The construction sector contributes to the occurrence of fatal falls and injuries. Experts believe that identifying the causes and individuals at risk of falls has the potential to prevent/minimize falls on-site. While some studies have focused on identifying the overall causes of falls in construction activities, the causes and individuals involved in vertical formwork activities remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to identify the causes and individuals at risk of falls during vertical formwork activities on an activity-based level. Initially, activities involving vertical formwork that pose the risk of falls were identified through observations, and industry professionals validated the descriptions of these activities. Subsequently, the Delphi method was used, involving a panel of 13 construction experts. The identified activities were presented to experts tasked with identifying the causes and individuals at risk of falls. Results indicated that factors such as management (e.g., inappropriate fall arrest system or PPE), unsafe individual behavior (e.g., inattention/inexperience of users), and unsafe site conditions (e.g., improper/unguarded edges/platforms) contribute to causes of falls at each level of activity. In addition, carpenters and fitters face a high risk of falls associated with vertical formwork operations. Surprisingly, it was also apparent that supervisors face a high risk of falls, especially during concrete pouring and stripping operations. The authors believe that the findings of this study could allow for precise targeting of activities in safety programs, thus enhancing the effectiveness of mitigation efforts.