What is the maximum allowable free fall distance when using a personal fall arrest system?

In the context of personal fall arrest systems, the maximum allowable free fall distance is set at six feet. This limit is based on the need to provide adequate safety measures for workers at height. Falling even a short distance can lead to serious injuries, but the six-foot limit is designed to ensure that the fall arrest system can effectively absorb the force generated by the fall and limit the impact on the worker.

The six-foot threshold is based on the principle that as a fall occurs, the system must account for not only the distance of the fall but also the deceleration distance and the potential for the worker to contact the ground or any structures beneath them. This regulation helps ensure that the fall arrest system will activate properly, allowing for a safer and more controlled stop.

Options that suggest distances shorter than six feet would not appropriately account for the dynamics involved in a fall arrest scenario, meaning a worker could still be at risk of injury should a fall happen. Alternatively, allowing for a greater distance, such as eight feet, would exceed safety limits and increase the potential for injury, as it could result in higher forces being experienced during the fall. Thus, the six-foot maximum is established as a standard for safety practices in fall protection.