OSHA 30 Hour Construction Program Practice Test

A personal fall arrest system (PFAS) anchorage point must support what minimum weight?

1. 4,000 lbs

2. 5,000 lbs

3. 6,000 lbs

4. 7,000 lbs

The correct answer is: 5,000 lbs

A personal fall arrest system (PFAS) anchorage point must be capable of supporting a minimum load of 5,000 pounds. This requirement is established to ensure that the system can effectively withstand the forces that may be generated during a fall. When a worker falls, the dynamics involved can create significant forces on the anchorage point, potentially exceeding the weight of the person falling. The requirement for a 5,000-pound capacity is crucial because it not only accounts for the weight of the worker but also provides a safety margin to address the kinetic energy and other variables involved during a fall, such as the fall distance and the potential for multiple users. This minimum standard helps prevent failure of the anchorage, which could lead to severe injuries or fatalities in the event of a fall. Understanding this requirement is essential for professionals working in construction and safety to ensure that their fall protection systems are properly equipped to handle the foreseeable hazards associated with height-related work.