Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is the minimum breaking strength allowed for lifelines and lanyards?

1. 3,000 lbs

2. 4,000 lbs

3. 5,000 lbs

4. 6,000 lbs

The correct answer is: 5,000 lbs

The correct minimum breaking strength for lifelines and lanyards is 5,000 lbs. This specification is established to ensure a margin of safety in fall protection systems. The requirement for a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 lbs is designed to protect workers who may be in situations where a fall could occur. This strength rating helps ensure that the equipment can withstand the forces exerted on it during a potential fall, which can be significantly greater than the weight of the worker due to the sudden stop and dynamics of the fall. By requiring a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 lbs, safety standards aim to minimize the risk of equipment failure, thereby ensuring the safety and effectiveness of fall protection systems used in various occupational settings. In contrast, other options reflect either lower standards or specific requirements related to different types of equipment or uses, which may not provide the necessary safety margins for all fall protection scenarios.