Red Seal Ironworker (Generalist) Practice Exam

What safety measure helps protect ironworkers from falls?

1. Heavy-duty gloves

2. High visibility clothing

3. Fall protection harnesses

4. Steel-toed boots

The correct answer is: Fall protection harnesses

Fall protection harnesses are a critical safety measure designed to protect ironworkers from falls, which are among the leading causes of workplace injuries in construction. These harnesses are worn by workers and are connected to a safety tether anchored to a secure point, preventing them from falling to the ground if they slip or lose their footing. This equipment is often used when working at heights, where the risk of falling is significant. The effectiveness of fall protection harnesses lies in their capacity to absorb and distribute the forces generated when a worker falls, thereby reducing the likelihood of injury. They are an essential part of a comprehensive fall protection plan that also includes guardrails, safety nets, and training in safe work practices. Other safety measures, such as heavy-duty gloves, high visibility clothing, and steel-toed boots, while important for protecting workers in various ways, do not specifically address the fall hazard that ironworkers face when working at heights. Heavy-duty gloves protect hands from injuries from sharp or rough materials, high visibility clothing ensures workers are visible to others, and steel-toed boots provide protection for the feet against heavy objects and punctures. However, none of these items directly prevent falls.