Dropped Object Prevention Solutions Group

ISEA is the trade association for manufacturers of dropped object prevention solutions.

ISEA members have a seat at the table when standards are being written that affect their products; they get a first look at changes in standards, they influence the development of new standards, and they are kept informed of developments on standards around the world.

ISEA, in conjunction with the ISEA Dropped Object Prevention Solutions Product Group and industry stakeholders, developed the ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 standard to establish design, testing and performance criteria for active systems used to prevent dropped objects in the workplace. This standard is the first of its kind to address equipment used to tether and/or contain hand tools, components, structure and other objects from falling from at-heights applications.

Struck-by falling objects kill hundreds of individuals each year and injure tens of thousands more. Increasing numbers of employees are finding themselves ascending to heights to complete their work often directly over or adjacent to their colleagues, by-standers and other individuals at lower levels. Protective equipment, such as hard hats, have long been available to minimize the effects of struck-by incidents only after an object has fallen. Preventative measures such as netting and toe boards are also a mitigating practice for this this risk, however there are challenges to these solutions and they do not entirely prevent incidents. Active controls utilized to prevent falling objects by tying them off or containing them while at heights are a rapidly growing practice.

Recognizing the benefit of these active prevention practices, it is the mission of this Product Group to create guidance for this equipment. ANSI/ISEA 121 refers to these active dropped object prevention controls and outlines four categories of equipment; Anchor Attachments, Tool Attachments, Tool Tethers, and Containers. The standard is limited to the identified scope as and offers further guidance in the appendices that follow. Utilization and use of the equipment outlined in this standard may differ between manufacturers offering it and employers using it.

ISEA gives members a full-time Washington office. They are kept up to date on important developments affecting their companies, and are identified with a respected and responsible organization that is an advocate for safety at heights standards and regulations.

For more than 75 years, ISEA has set the standard for personal safety equipment manufacturers, supporting and promoting the business interests of its member companies, united in the goal of protecting the health and safety of people worldwide.