Fall Protection: Do You Need an Engineer With That? -- Occupational Health & Safety

Fall Protection: Do You Need an Engineer With That?

Date: Thursday, December 3, 2026 at 2:00pm ET - 1:00pm CT - 11:00am PT

Fall protection is often thought of as just equipment, but most solutions require a combination of structural engineering and safety disciplines. Structural engineering addresses the strength and performance of the system, while safety addresses the human and operational aspects. Designs that consider only one point of view tend to be uneconomical, unworkable, and often unsafe.

“Engineering controls” and “engineered systems” are often used interchangeably, so what does each actually require? And when does the work call for a professional engineer? Participants will learn when engineered fall protection systems are warranted and what to require from an external service provider or internal resource. The session also covers how engineered systems fit within Prevention through Design, the role of the Qualified Person, new design best practices from ANSI Z359.6, and the inspection, certification and maintenance that keep systems performing over time.

About the Speaker:

Thom Kramer, PE, CSP: Senior Safety Consultant – LJB Engineering

Thom is a safety consultant and structural engineer with 30 years of experience. He is an internationally recognized expert in applying engineering and safety practices to reduce risk for workers at heights. As a dually registered professional engineer and certified safety professional, he specializes in the assessment and design of fall protection systems, as well as fall protection program development and training. Thom is the former Chair of the ANSI/ASSP Z359 Full Committee and previously chaired three subcommittees (ANSI Z359.1, .6 and .17). He also serves as the Senior Vice President of ASSP, the current Chair of the ANSI Z359 National Work at Height Task Force, and as the President of the International Society for Fall Protection. He is widely considered as a thought leader in the fall protection and work at height industry, having given more than 300 technical sessions and workshops on the topic.

Duration: 1 Hour

Kee Safety delivers innovative fall protection and safety solutions designed to protect workers at height and reduce workplace risks. Explore its comprehensive range of products today and discover smarter ways to improve compliance, strengthen safety and protect your workforce. Learn more at https://www.keesafety.com/

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