NWSA - National Wireless Safety Alliance Fall Protection and Rescue Questions and Answers

Question 1

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?

Accepted Answer

5,000 lbs

Answer

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.

Question 2

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?

Accepted Answer

Authorized Rescuer

Answer

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.

Question 3

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?

Accepted Answer

Frayed or broken stitches on a load-bearing strap

Answer

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.

Question 4

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?

Accepted Answer

6 feet

Answer

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.

Question 5

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?

Accepted Answer

The onset of suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance)

Answer

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.

NWSA - National Wireless Safety Alliance Practice Test

NWSA - National Wireless Safety Alliance Practice Test

NWSA - National Wireless Safety Alliance Fall Protection and Rescue Questions and Answers