Which type of lanyard is designed to slow descent and absorb forces during a fall?

The shock-absorbing lanyard is designed specifically to slow descent and absorb forces during a fall. This type of lanyard incorporates a mechanism that allows it to extend during a fall, effectively reducing the sudden impact force on the body and the anchorage point. By elongating, these lanyards help to dissipate the energy generated by the fall, thereby minimizing the risk of injuries to the worker who is using it.

In contrast, the other options serve different functions. Self-retracting lanyards are designed to automatically extend and retract as the user moves, providing mobility but may not effectively absorb fall energy like a shock-absorbing lanyard. Synthetic rope lanyards and synthetic webbing lanyards are primarily configured for strength and durability, but they do not have the built-in shock absorption mechanism that is critical for reducing fall impact forces. Thus, the specific design and function of the shock-absorbing lanyard make it the appropriate choice for fall protection in construction environments.