Annual initiative encourages lifesaving conversations, training and action to prevent workplace falls.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Safety Council urges employers and workers nationwide to participate in the 2026 National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction May 4-8. As a premier partner, NSC is working alongside the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) and other safety organizations to advance solutions that prevent fall-related injuries and deaths.
Falls remain one of the most serious and preventable workplace hazards. In 2024, over 600 workers died in falls to a lower level and nearly 120,000 cases involving missed work, job restriction or transfer were reported in 2023-2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In construction, falls from elevation remain a leading cause of death, with more than one construction worker tragically losing their life every day.
The National Safety Stand-Down is a weeklong voluntary event that encourages employers to pause normal work activities to speak directly with workers about fall hazards and prevention.
Recommended activities include:
● Toolbox talks on ladder, roof and scaffold safety
● Equipment inspections for harnesses and fall protection systems
● Rescue planning and emergency preparedness drills
● Worksite hazard assessments
● Employee-led discussions about safety concerns
● Training sessions and safety demonstrations
“As construction activity increases each spring, the National Safety Stand-Down is a powerful reminder that no job should cost someone their life or livelihood,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC CEO. “Taking time to discuss fall hazards, inspect equipment and reinforce safe work practices can prevent devastating injuries and save lives. At NSC, we are committed to providing employers with practical tools and resources, so every worker returns home safely at the end of every shift.”
While rooted in construction, the Stand-Down is valuable for any industry where employees work at heights or face fall risks, including manufacturing, warehousing, transportation, utilities and maintenance. NSC offers tools and resources to help employers prevent slips, trips and falls, including checklists, training materials, videos, webinars, data insights and prevention guides.
To join the 2026 National Safety Stand-Down, employers can register for events, download materials and receive participation certificates at osha.gov. Additional resources to help prevent falls and protect workers are available at nsc.org/standdown and stopconstructionfalls.com.
About the National Safety Council
The National Safety Council is America's leading nonprofit safety advocate – and has been for over 110 years. As a mission-based organization, we work to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing our efforts on the workplace and roadways. We create a culture of safety to not only keep people safer at work, but also beyond the workplace so they can live their fullest lives.
For media inquiries, please contact media@nsc.org.
With a century-long legacy, the National Safety Council is a global center for safety expertise. Let's work together to align resources. We look forward to learning about ways we can join efforts to expand safety everywhere!
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