Fall Protection and Rescue Flashcards

According to OSHA and ANSI Z359 standards, a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) anchorage point must be capable of supporting a minimum of how many pounds per attached worker?

Answer: 5,000 lbs

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.268(g) and ANSI/ASSP Z359.1-2016 require that anchorages used for personal fall arrest systems must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) per employee attached, or be designed, installed, and used as part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor of at least two, under the supervision of a qualified person.

A tower technician is preparing for a rescue operation. According to ANSI Z359.2, which role is defined as a person assigned by the employer to perform fall protection rescue, who has been trained to do so?

Answer: Authorized Rescuer

ANSI Z359.2 defines an 'Authorized Rescuer' as a person assigned by the employer to perform fall protection rescue. This person must be trained and proficient in the specific rescue procedures for their work environment. A 'Competent Rescuer' has a broader role involving the implementation and supervision of the entire rescue program.

During a pre-use inspection of a full-body harness, which of the following findings would require the harness to be immediately removed from service?

Answer: Frayed or broken stitches on a load-bearing strap

Frayed, broken, or pulled stitches indicate a critical failure of a load-bearing component. According to inspection guidelines, any damage to the structural integrity of the webbing or stitching requires the harness to be immediately removed from service. Minor fading or a pivoting D-ring are generally acceptable if all other components are sound.

A technician is using a personal fall arrest system while working on a tower. What is the maximum allowable free-fall distance permitted by OSHA and ANSI standards?

Answer: 6 feet

Both OSHA (e.g., 29 CFR 1926.502) and ANSI Z359 standards specify that a personal fall arrest system must be rigged such that an employee cannot free fall more than 6 feet. Positioning device systems are limited to a 2-foot free fall.

A rescue plan has been activated for a suspended worker. Which of the following is the MOST critical and immediate concern for the rescue team?

Answer: The onset of suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance)

Suspension trauma, or orthostatic intolerance, is a life-threatening condition that can occur when a person is suspended motionless in a harness. Blood can pool in the legs, reducing circulation to the heart and brain. Prompt rescue is critical to prevent serious injury or death.

Which of the following best describes a 'fall restraint' system?

Answer: A system that prevents a worker from reaching a fall hazard

A fall restraint system is designed to prevent the worker from reaching an edge or other area where a fall could occur. It typically consists of a body harness, a lanyard of a specific length, and an anchorage, which physically prevents the worker from stepping off the edge. This is different from a fall arrest system, which stops a fall in progress.