Hole Covers and Skylight Protection
Construction and general industry · Ver en español
Talking points
- All floor holes and skylights through which a worker could fall must be guarded with a cover or guardrail system.
- Covers must support at least twice the maximum intended load — including the heaviest worker plus any tools or materials they carry.
- Covers must be secured against displacement by nails, screws, bolts, or other fasteners. A loose cover is nearly as dangerous as no cover.
- Mark covers clearly in a contrasting color with 'HOLE' or 'COVER.' An unmarked cover may be moved by someone who doesn't know what's underneath.
- Skylights are particularly dangerous because they look solid but cannot support a person's weight. Use skylight screens or guardrails rated for the load.
Ask the crew
Are all floor openings and skylights in our work area covered and secured — or do we need to address any before starting work?
Standards this talk is built on
A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.
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Sign-in sheet
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| Name | Signature | Date |
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