Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers, straight from our safety team.

Find answers about our fall protection systems, harnesses and equipment, training and certification, and how to work with Onsite Safety.



Looking for answers about a specific solution or course? See the links near the bottom of this page. This page gives general information, so always follow OSHA, state and manufacturer requirements for your job.

Fall Protection Basics

  • What is fall protection, and why does it matter?

    Fall protection is the set of systems, equipment and practices that keep workers from falling from height, or stop a fall safely if one happens. Falls are consistently a leading cause of death in construction, which is why OSHA treats fall protection as one of its top priorities.

  • What are the main types of fall protection?

    Safety professionals usually work in order of preference: eliminate the hazard, use passive protection such as guardrails and covers, use fall restraint or personal fall arrest systems, and finally use administrative controls such as warning lines and safety monitors. The best choice depends on the work being done.

  • What is the difference between fall restraint and fall arrest?

    Fall restraint keeps a worker from reaching a fall hazard in the first place, for example with a short, adjusted lanyard. Fall arrest stops a worker after a fall has started. Restraint prevents the fall, so it is generally preferred where it is practical.

  • What is fall clearance?

    Fall clearance is the distance needed below a worker’s feet to stop a fall before they hit a lower level or object. It includes the length of the lanyard or lifeline, the distance the system stretches or decelerates, harness stretch and a safety margin. When clearance is short, a different system may be needed.

  • Do small residential jobs need fall protection?

    Yes. OSHA’s construction rule generally requires fall protection at 6 feet, and it applies to residential builders and roofers the same as commercial contractors. OSHA withdrew its old residential interim policy in 2011. Limited exceptions require a written, site-specific plan.

OSHA & Responsibility

  • Which OSHA standards cover fall protection?

    In construction, fall protection is mainly covered by 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M. In general industry, see 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D (Walking-Working Surfaces) and the personal fall protection rules in Subpart I. Scaffolds and ladders have their own construction subparts, L and X.

  • Who is responsible for fall protection on a multi-contractor site?

    Often more than one party. Under OSHA’s multi-employer citation policy, the employer that created a hazard, employers whose workers are exposed to it, the employer responsible for correcting it and the controlling employer can each be cited. Clear roles and communication between contractors help.

  • What is a qualified person?

    OSHA describes a qualified person as someone who has a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing, or extensive knowledge, training and experience, and who has shown they can solve problems related to the subject. Qualified persons often design or approve systems such as horizontal lifelines and custom anchorages.

Choosing the Right Solution

  • How do I know which fall protection system is right for my project?

    The answer depends on the type of work, structure and edge conditions, how many workers are exposed, how long the work will last, and available fall clearance. A site assessment reviews these factors and compares options before anything is installed.

  • Should I choose a temporary or a permanent system?

    Temporary systems suit short-term projects such as construction and re-roofing, because they can be installed and removed or reused. Permanent systems suit places workers visit again and again, such as rooftop equipment or maintenance access. Many sites use both.

  • Can I order just equipment, training or consulting?

    Yes. Safety gear, training and consulting are each available on their own, and many customers combine them with system installation. Tell us what you need and we will recommend the right mix.

Working With Us

  • What happens after I request a quote?

    A safety specialist reviews your project details and may ask follow-up questions. From there we recommend next steps, which can include a site assessment, a system design and a quote. The more detail you share up front, the faster we can scope the work.

  • Do you provide documentation after a project?

    We can provide documentation to support your records, such as installation and inspection records and training documentation. See our Documentation & Forms page for templates you can use on your own jobsites.

  • Can you review our existing safety program?

    Yes. Our safety consulting service reviews your fall protection plans, equipment and jobsite practices, identifies gaps and recommends improvements. Final responsibility for jobsite safety remains with the employer.

Still Have Questions?

Talk with a safety specialist to call or email our team and a safety specialist will answer them.