C-5 stab shop leaps forward for fall protection Published July 12, 2011 By Faye Banks-Anderson 78 ABW/PA ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Eight months ago it was just an idea. Today, it's a leap forward for fall protection. The result is a new prototype C-5 horizontal stabilizer stand with wrap-around scaffolding which provides workers better and less cumbersome fall protection. The Air Force standard for fall protection was recently reduced from 10 feet to 4 feet. The new standard affects maintenance activities both on the flight line and in hangars, and requires fall protection to be used wherever there is a potential for a worker to fall 4 feet or more to the next lower level or, regardless of height, onto unguarded machinery or dangerous equipment. Jamerson Parrott and Kyle Moody, 402nd Aircraft Maintenance Support Squadron engineers, teamed with mechanics and safety specialists to develop the new prototype stand. "The guys love it," Parrott said. "It's easy to move, light weight, and better from an ergonomic standpoint." Parrott said with the new system workers don't have to bend as much or wear heavy lanyards and harnesses. He expects less back-, wrist- and arm-strain injuries in the future. "It's less climbing and less physically demanding," said Chuck Valasky, C-5 stab shop sheet metal mechanic. "It's easier access to the stab, and more sturdy and safe." Chris Kolmetz, also a sheet metal mechanic, said he likes the maneuverability and the fact it meets OSHA standards.