What is the purpose of a body belt (safety belt) in fall protection?

The purpose of a body belt, or safety belt, in fall protection is primarily to secure it around the waist and attach it to a safety line. This function is crucial during construction activities where workers might be exposed to heights. The safety belt helps prevent a worker from falling in the first place by providing a means to connect to a secure anchor point or safety line, which will limit movement and allow for safe, controlled positioning.

While comfort, the ability to carry tools, and maintaining balance on scaffolds may be considered in the overall context of work and safety, these aspects do not reflect the primary safety function of a body belt in fall protection scenarios. The essential role of the body belt is to safeguard workers against fall hazards by creating an anchorage system that ensures they are connected and secure when working at elevated heights.