The cash awards program is seeking research ideas that will lead to potential countermeasures where further research will prove the efficacy of these measures to prevent or ameliorate occupational injuries and fatalities. Substantiation or proof of such research ideas may lead to their application in the workplace. This could not only enhance specific functions, but also lead to the totality of occupational safety and health program improvements. Falls have been a leading cause of accidental deaths in the U.S. since the early 19th century. Workplace falls are very significant because they can and do, inflict serious injuries and fatalities, and they cause other secondary accidents.
Safeguards are essential for protecting workers.
Statistics show that exposure to electricity is a major cause of deaths among construction, utility, and DOD workers. It has been theorized that among non-electricians, failure to avoid live overhead power lines and lack of basic electrical safety knowledge are the major concerns. OSHA has summarized that handling and storing materials involves diverse operations such as hoisting tons of steel with a crane, driving a truck loaded with concrete blocks, manually carrying bags and material, and stacking drums, barrels, kegs, lumber, or loose bricks. The efficient handling and storing of materials is vital to industry. These operations provide a continuous flow of raw materials, parts, and assemblies through the workplace, and ensure that materials are available when needed.