IPAF Fall Protection and PPE 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the maximum free-fall distance generally permitted when using a fall arrest system in an MEWP?
- No free fall is permitted; restraint must be used
- Up to 600 mm (0.6 m) (Correct answer)
- Up to 2 m
- Up to 4 m
Correct answer: Up to 600 mm (0.6 m)
In MEWP operations the recommended practice limits free fall to 600 mm or less, which is why short lanyards and restraint systems are preferred over long fall arrest lanyards.
Question 2: Which EN standard covers full body harnesses used for fall arrest in the UK?
- EN 354 (Lanyards)
- EN 361 (Full body harnesses) (Correct answer)
- EN 795 (Anchor devices)
- EN 363 (Fall arrest systems)
Correct answer: EN 361 (Full body harnesses)
EN 361 is the European standard specifically for full body harnesses, setting design and performance requirements for fall arrest harnesses.
Question 3: What is the main advantage of using a twin-leg (Y-shaped) lanyard when moving around inside an MEWP?
- It allows the operator to attach to two different machines simultaneously
- It ensures 100% continuous connection so one leg is always attached when unclipping the other (Correct answer)
- It doubles the load capacity of the fall arrest system
- It is lighter than a single lanyard, reducing fatigue
Correct answer: It ensures 100% continuous connection so one leg is always attached when unclipping the other
A twin-leg lanyard ensures continuous attachment — while unclipping one leg to pass an obstruction, the second leg keeps the operator connected at all times.
Question 4: A safety helmet worn during MEWP operations should comply with which standard?
- EN 397 (Industrial safety helmets) (Correct answer)
- EN 12492 (Mountaineering helmets)
- EN 966 (Airborne sports helmets)
- BS 7971 (Riot protection helmets)
Correct answer: EN 397 (Industrial safety helmets)
EN 397 is the standard for industrial safety helmets, which are appropriate for MEWP operations and provide protection against falling objects and impacts.
Question 5: Who is legally responsible for ensuring MEWP operators are provided with and use the correct PPE?
- The IPAF training centre that issued the PAL Card
- The employer or person in control of the work activity (Correct answer)
- The MEWP hire company
- The site security team
Correct answer: The employer or person in control of the work activity
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the PPE at Work Regulations 1992, the employer or person in control of the work is legally responsible for ensuring suitable PPE is provided and used.
Question 6: What does an energy-absorbing lanyard do during a fall arrest event?
- Converts the fall energy into heat, extending the arrest distance and reducing peak force on the body (Correct answer)
- Shortens automatically to keep the operator closer to the anchor point
- Locks off to prevent any movement of the operator
- Signals a rescue team by releasing a coloured dye
Correct answer: Converts the fall energy into heat, extending the arrest distance and reducing peak force on the body
An energy-absorbing lanyard contains a rip-stitch or folded webbing pack that unfolds during arrest, extending the stopping distance and reducing the peak force applied to the harness and body.
Question 7: How often must a formal thorough examination of a fall arrest harness be carried out by a competent person?
- Every 10 years
- At intervals not exceeding 12 months, or more frequently if the manufacturer specifies (Correct answer)
- Only when purchased new
- Every 5 years under LOLER
Correct answer: At intervals not exceeding 12 months, or more frequently if the manufacturer specifies
LOLER and PUWER require that fall protection equipment used at height is thoroughly examined by a competent person at least every 12 months, or more frequently per manufacturer guidance.
IPAF Fall Protection and PPE 2
What is the maximum free-fall distance generally permitted when using a fall arrest system in an MEWP?