ISC Fall Protection & Working at Heights

Question 1

At what height above a lower level must employers generally provide fall protection for workers in general industry under OSHA standards?

Accepted Answer

4 feet (1.2 m)

Answer

OSHA general industry rules (29 CFR 1910.28) require fall protection at 4 feet. Construction uses 6 feet.

Question 2

What is the minimum breaking strength OSHA requires for an anchorage used for personal fall arrest if it is not designed under the supervision of a qualified person?

Accepted Answer

5,000 lb per worker attached

Answer

Anchorages must support 5,000 pounds per attached worker, or be designed, installed and used under a qualified person as part of a complete system with a safety factor of at least two.

Question 3

Which component of a personal fall arrest system limits the force on the worker's body during a fall?

Accepted Answer

Shock-absorbing lanyard

Answer

A shock-absorbing lanyard (or energy absorber) slows the worker down and limits the arresting force to a maximum of 1,800 lb with a harness.

Question 4

Which approach sits highest in the hierarchy of fall protection measures?

Accepted Answer

Eliminating the hazard, such as doing the work at ground level

Answer

Elimination removes the exposure entirely and ranks above passive systems, such as guardrails, and active ones, such as arrest or restraint.

Question 5

After a worker's fall has been arrested by a harness, what hazard must the rescue plan address promptly?

Accepted Answer

Suspension trauma

Answer

Hanging motionless in a harness can cause suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance), which can become life-threatening in minutes. Prompt rescue is required.

ISC - Industrial Safety Certification Practice Test

ISC - Industrial Safety Certification Practice Test

ISC Fall Protection & Working at Heights