What equipment is required to protect workers from falling off scaffolds?

Personal fall arrest systems are essential for protecting workers from falls while on scaffolds. These systems are designed to safely arrest a fall before the worker hits the ground or another lower level. They typically consist of an anchorage, body wear (such as a harness), and connectors that allow for controlled movement while ensuring that if a fall occurs, it will be stopped.

The use of personal fall arrest systems is mandated in situations where guardrails or safety nets cannot provide adequate protection or when the height of the scaffold exceeds certain thresholds. This system is especially important in construction, where workers often perform tasks at significant heights and may be exposed to the risk of falling without proper protective measures in place.

While guardrails and safety nets are also effective fall protection methods, they serve different purposes and may not always be applicable based on the specific conditions of the worksite. Personal fall arrest systems provide a more versatile safety option that can be adapted to various scenarios in construction environments. Thus, they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of workers on scaffolds.