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OSHA Personal Fall Arrest System Components and Use

Updated Apr 3, 2026
Fall arrest systems must be properly selected, used, and maintained

A personal fall arrest system (PFAS) consists of a body harness, lanyard or self-retracting lifeline, and secure anchor point. The body harness must distribute fall forces across the shoulders, back, and hips to prevent internal injury. Harnesses must fit snugly without excess straps that could entangle. All harnesses must have D-rings for lanyard attachment and must be leg-strapped to prevent inversion during a fall. Lanyards must be no more than 6 feet long to limit fall distance and must be secured to an anchor point rated for at least 5,000 pounds. Self-retracting lanyards allow worker movement while providing automatic arrest of falls. Shock absorbers or fall arrest systems with built-in absorption capacity limit impact forces. Double-lanyard systems allow worker movement between anchor points. Anchor points must be permanent structures or temporary systems rated and tested for each specific installation. Horizontal lifelines can serve multiple workers when installed properly. All PFAS components must be ANSI certified and properly inspected before each use. Damaged components must be removed from service immediately. Workers must be trained on proper donning, adjustment, and use of PFAS components. Rescue procedures must be in place for workers suspended in harnesses after a fall. Self-rescue techniques should be taught when possible.

TAGS
oshafall-arrestfall-protectionharnesses
DETAILS
applicability
All sites with fall hazards
citation frequency
Very Common
SOURCES
🔗https://www.osha.gov/
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