Falls are one of the most common—and most preventable—causes of serious injuries and fatalities in the workplace. In 2022 alone, 700 workers tragically lost their lives, and over 129,000 suffered injuries due to falls from heights. To encourage fall prevention at work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), in collaboration with the National Safety Council (NSC) and other partners, is hosting the 2025 National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls from May 5–9, 2025.
What Is the National Safety Stand-Down?
The National Safety Stand-Down is a voluntary nationwide event where employers are encouraged to pause work and engage with their teams about:
- Fall hazards
- Fall prevention strategies
- Proper use of protective equipment
- Workplace safety culture
It’s an opportunity to refocus on what matters most—keeping every worker safe.
Understanding Fall Prevention in the Workplace
According to OSHA’s standards, falls are a major concern, and employers must take necessary measures to prevent them and protect workers. The annual National Safety Stand-Down aims to raise fall protection and prevention awareness, highlighting the importance of safety equipment, safety requirements, and training for workers.
Adopting fall protection systems, including warning lines, guardrail systems, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems, can help reduce the risk of serious injury or death of employees at work. Furthermore, employers must ensure that workers are properly trained to use protective equipment and follow safety requirements to prevent workplace falls.
Why Participate in the National Safety Stand-Down?
Taking part in the National Safety Stand-Down can have a powerful impact on your team. Here’s why it matters:
- Raise Awareness
Highlight the dangers of working at heights and remind your team why fall prevention is critical.
- Educate Employees
Review safety procedures and train your team on the proper use of fall protection gear.
- Prevent Incidents
Reduce the risk of falls at work through proactive safety practices and ongoing conversations.
How to Get Involved in the National Safety Stand-Down
- Plan Your Stand-Down Event
Schedule a dedicated time between May 5-9, 2025, to hold a fall safety talk or training session with your team.
- Use Free Resources
Access materials from OSHA and the NSC—including posters, checklists, and training guides—to support your event. Need help? Your Bizhaven Safety Business Partner is here to assist with event planning and execution.
- Engage Your Workforce
Encourage open discussions about falls at work. In addition, invite feedback and listen to your team’s safety concerns and ideas for improvements in fall prevention.
- Get Recognized
After your event, share your feedback with OSHA to receive an official certificate of participation.
Let’s Make Workplace Safety a Priority—Together
The National Safety Stand-Down is more than a campaign—it’s a movement. One that reminds us that every life is worth protecting.
Join thousands of organizations across the country and make a stand against falls in the workplace.
Need Support?
Reach out to your Bizhaven Safety Business Partner for assistance in planning your 2025 National Safety Stand-Down event or accessing safety materials.
Together, we can prevent workplace falls and save lives.
