Tool Tethering & Dropped Objects

A small tool dropped from height hits with enormous force. A dropped wrench can seriously injure or kill someone below, even through a hard hat.

• Construction
• General Industry

Preventing drops

• Tether tools to your wrist, belt or the structure with rated tool lanyards and attachment points. Don’t tether heavy tools to your body unless the system is designed for that weight.
• Use closed tool bags, buckets with lids, and holsters.
• Raise and lower tools and material with a hand line and bucket, not by hand while climbing.
• Use toeboards, screens and debris netting on scaffolds and platforms.
• Keep platforms clear; don’t set loose items near edges.

Protecting people below

• Set up barricades and an exclusion zone under overhead work. Post signs.
• Wear your hard hat (Type II helmets give more side protection).
• Never walk under a suspended load or under people working overhead.

Last updated: October 1, 2026