Alabama's ABC establishes the Fall Protection Institute, aimed at reducing workplace accidents
New Fall Protection Institute in Alabama Aims to Reduce Construction Fatalities
The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Alabama recently unveiled the Fall Protection Institute of Alabama, a new facility designed to improve worker safety in the construction industry. The institute, located in Alabama, is the first of its kind in the entire Southeast and is part of ABC's commitment to prioritising safety in the workplace.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries report, the construction industry reported 1,075 fatalities in 2023, with slips, trips, and falls accounting for more than 39 percent of these deaths, making them the leading cause of death on job sites. Recognising the need for improved safety measures, ABC of Alabama made a conscious decision to put safety in their strategic plan.
The Fall Protection Institute of Alabama aims to take fall safety beyond the classroom and into a simulated workplace setting. The Institute features a state-of-the-art training tower replicating real job site conditions, allowing students and professionals to earn industry-recognized fall protection certifications. ABC of Alabama partnered with 3M Fall Protection and BL Harbert International to develop this hands-on, real-world training environment.
ABC of Alabama also received the Strategic Plan Chapter Performance Award for 2024-2029 at ABC National's Annual Convention in Las Vegas, primarily due to their comprehensive approach to worker safety. The organization's dedication to safety is further demonstrated by their decision to bring fall protection training and certification in-state, eliminating the need for Alabama construction companies to send their employees to Austin, TX for training.
Harrison, a representative from ABC of Alabama, stated that the facility is proof of the organization's commitment to safety. He emphasised that until employees are safe, nothing else matters. ABC of Alabama believes that a facility like the Fall Protection Institute of Alabama will ensure that employees go home safely to their families daily.
The grand opening ceremony for the Fall Protection Institute of Alabama was held by the Associated Builders and Contractors of Alabama. ABC of Alabama represents the state's merit-shop construction industry, which creates 200,000 jobs and accounts for 5 percent of the state's economic output. The institute is a significant step towards reducing fatalities in the construction industry and ensuring a safer working environment for all.
