What is the maximum fall distance allowed for personal fall arrest systems?

The maximum fall distance for personal fall arrest systems is established to ensure that in the event of a fall, the worker is protected and can be safely arrested without sustaining serious injuries. A fall arrest system is designed to stop a worker's fall and allow for safe retrieval.

The correct answer indicates that the maximum allowable free fall distance is 6 feet. This limitation is significant as it minimizes the deceleration distance and reduces the potential impact forces that the worker would experience upon arrest. Additionally, the 6-foot distance helps ensure that the harness and lanyard systems are effective in catching the worker before they can hit a lower level or the ground. The adoption of this standard reflects safety practices aimed at protecting workers during high-risk operations.

Other options, while suggesting varying fall distances, do not align with industry safety standards and best practices related to personal fall arrest systems. Such standards are critical in workplaces where employees may be exposed to heights and potential fall hazards.