Exploring causes of falls and preventive measures in vertical formwork operations in Indian construction

Purpose The nature of vertical formwork activities demands frequent work at height operations, significantly increasing workers’ exposure to the risk of falls. The purpose of this study was to identify the activity-specific causes of falls during vertical formwork operations and explore effective measures that can be implemented to prevent such incidents from occurring in the Indian construction industry. Design/methodology/approach Two primary efforts were undertaken. First, the researchers conducted field observations to identify the specific activities that are particularly prone to the risk of falls. Industry professionals then validated the identified activities to ensure their accuracy and relevance. Secondly, the researchers utilized the Delphi method with a panel of 13 subject matter experts to identify the causes of falls and preventive measures. The findings of the Delphi methods were validated through a survey with nine experts. Findings The results revealed that inappropriate fall arrest systems or PPE, user inattention or inexperience, improper or unguarded edges/platforms, uncovered openings, slippery or sloped surfaces, being hit by moving objects, unsuitable ladders and loss of balance were the significant causes of falls during vertical formwork operations. To address these identified causes, the panel of industry experts provided several recommended preventive measures, including ensuring secure anchorage points are available for fixing safety harnesses, confirming that ladders are set up strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions and positioned on level, stable ground and providing proper illumination for any vertical formwork activities conducted at night or in low-light conditions. Originality/value While previous research has examined the broader causes of falls in construction, this study represents a pioneering effort to specifically investigate the activity-based causes of falls during vertical formwork operations. The study findings can provide valuable insights for developing more effective fall prevention plans in India and other nations with similar characteristics.