Two-week campaign draws attention to avoidable mishaps Published April 23, 2015 By Col. Michael A. Vogel 66th Air Base Group Commander HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Air Force Ground Safety will sponsor Fall Protection Focus weeks from May 4-15 to draw attention to avoidable mishaps due to falls. This initiative is a partnership with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's campaign, "National Safety Stand-Down." During fiscal years 2010-2014, the Air Force had 7,671 injuries from falls resulting in 44,000 lost work days at a cost of more than $30 million. Three of those falls resulted in fatalities, including one right here at Hanscom. In all, Hanscom AFB experienced 54 injuries from falls resulting in 310 lost work days at a cost of more than $616,000. According to OSHA, during the last 10 years, more than 3,500 workers have died from falls, which remains the leading cause of death in construction, accounting for more than a third of deaths in the industry. Throughout the two-week focus, my Safety staff will be reminding all active duty, Guard, Reserve, Defense Department civilians and family members of the dangers of preventable falls. I also ask leaders to discuss fall prevention at every opportunity by including information at staff meetings, commander/director calls or any other appropriate venue. Fall protection awareness is not limited to activities performed at heights. In fact, 83 percent of Hanscom fall injuries occurred while the person was on the same level. All members of Team Hanscom have the responsibilities to identify and correct hazards. I ask everyone to ensure you are vigilant in identifying and correcting fall hazards. For those unable to correct the problem with the resources available, or for further information on Fall Protection Focus weeks, contact the Safety Office at 781-225-5584.