Struck-By Hazard Definition
A struck-by hazard occurs when a worker or occupant is struck by a flying, falling, swinging, or rolling object. OSHA classifies struck-by incidents as one of the "Fatal Four" construction hazards, accounting for roughly 10 percent of all construction fatalities annually. These incidents happen across industries, from warehouse operations to residential ladder work to manufacturing floors.
OSHA Standards and Requirements
OSHA addresses struck-by hazards under general duty clauses and specific standards depending on the work environment. In construction, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart R covers falling objects and requires employers to implement protective measures. For general industry, struck-by hazards fall under 29 CFR 1910 standards for machine guarding and housekeeping. Employers must conduct hazard assessments to identify where struck-by incidents are possible, then eliminate or control those hazards through engineering controls, administrative procedures, and personal protective equipment.
Common Struck-By Scenarios
- Falling objects from scaffolds, roofs, or elevated work platforms onto workers below
- Swinging loads from cranes or hoists striking workers in the swing radius
- Powered equipment backing up without adequate spotters or cameras
- Objects ejected from power tools or machinery during operation
- Falling tools, materials, or equipment during residential repairs or home maintenance
- Rolling equipment or vehicles on jobsites or in warehouse operations
Prevention and Control Measures
Effective struck-by prevention requires multiple layers of protection. Use barricades and warning signs to keep workers out of hazard zones around crane operations or equipment swing areas. Install overhead protective structures (canopies or netting) where workers spend time below elevated work. Require hard hats and other appropriate PPE for all personnel in areas where struck-by hazards exist. Establish and enforce spotters or communication systems for equipment operation. Secure tools and materials on elevated surfaces to prevent dropping. Maintain clear walkways and work areas free of trip hazards that could cause loss of balance near equipment. For homeowners, simple precautions include securing ladders properly, wearing a hard hat during overhead work, and keeping the work area organized.
Safety Audits and Inspection
Include struck-by hazard assessment in your safety audit checklist. Walk the site systematically to identify potential strike points from equipment operation, material handling, and elevated work. Document barricading adequacy, spotters at work sites, and proper use of protective equipment. Review incident reports for near-misses. In home settings, inspect work areas before starting projects involving overhead work, machinery, or power tools. Check that ladders are stable and tools are properly secured.
Common Questions
- Do I need a hard hat if I'm doing small home repairs? Yes, if you're working on a ladder, roof, or anywhere objects could fall on your head. Head injuries from struck-by incidents are often fatal or cause permanent disability. A hard hat costs under $30.
- What's the difference between struck-by hazards and caught-in/between hazards? Struck-by involves objects moving toward a person (falling, flying, rolling). Caught-in/between involves a person caught between stationary and moving objects or between two objects. Both require different control strategies.
- How far must I barricade a drop zone under OSHA rules? There's no fixed distance. OSHA requires you to keep the hazard zone clear based on a competent person's assessment of the specific work. For most crane operations, this means at least the perimeter of the load's swing radius plus a buffer zone.
Related Concepts
Hard Hat and Barricade are essential tools for managing struck-by hazards in most work environments.