how high does a person have to be to use a fall protection

Fall protection is required at different heights depending on the industry and specific work being performed. Here are some examples:

• General Industry: Fall protection is generally required for walking-working surfaces 4 feet or more above a lower level.
• Construction: In construction, fall protection is required at 6 feet or more above a lower level. However, there are some exceptions.
• Steel Erection: For those engaged in steel erection activities, fall protection is required on walking or working surfaces with an unprotected side or edge more than 15 feet above a lower level. [4] [3] [5]

Specific trigger heights for fall protection include:

• 2 stories or 30 feet (whichever is less) for connecting structural steel (iron workers)
• 20 feet for most roofing work
• 15 feet for panelized roof systems, residential framing and roofing activities, and work on 4-inch nominal or wider structural members other than connecting steel (iron workers)
• 7 1/2 feet for work on unprotected platforms, scaffolds, or edges of structures (within 6 feet)
• 6 feet for work with rebar or similar projections (rod busters)
• 4 feet in hoist areas

[1] [2] These heights can vary based on specific regulations and the type of work being performed.