When working at a height of 10 feet, fall protection measures are required to prevent or reduce injuries from falls. While my knowledge base does not specify the exact height at which fall protection is required, I can provide general guidance on personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). A PFAS typically includes an anchorage, connectors, and a full-body harness. It may also include a shock-absorbing lanyard, a retractable lifeline, and/or a deceleration device. [2] [2]
Key considerations for using personal fall arrest systems include:
- Anchorage: The anchorage point must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per person attached.
- Harness: A full-body harness should be used, not a body belt, with a D-ring for attaching lifelines or lanyards.
- Lanyard: The lanyard must have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds. Avoid combining lanyards to increase length or knotting them.
- Free Fall Distance: Ensure the system is rigged so that a worker cannot free fall more than 6 feet.
- Total Fall Clearance Distance: Calculate the total fall clearance distance, considering the length of the lanyard, the deceleration device, and the worker's height, to prevent 'bottoming out'.
- Swing Falls: Locate the anchorage point directly above the worker to minimize swing fall hazards.
[6] [5] [5] [5] [1] [4] [1] Before using a PFAS, inspect all components for wear, damage, and defects. Ensure you have a rescue plan in place to quickly rescue a suspended worker. [4] [3]
Important Safety Note:
Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.
References
Page links are approximateOccupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 29 CFR 1910) - 1910 Subpart I App C - Personal Fall Protection Systems Non-Mandatory Guidelines
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Oregon OSHA Technical Manual, Section V: Construction Operations, Chapter 4: Fall Protection in Construction
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