Lanyards and vertical lifelines must have a minimum breaking strength of _____________

The correct answer is determined based on the safety standards set by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Lanyards and vertical lifelines are critical components of personal fall protection systems in construction and other industries where workers are exposed to heights.

Lanyards and vertical lifelines designed for personal fall arrest systems must have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds. This high breaking strength ensures that the equipment can withstand the forces experienced during a fall and adequately protect the worker. The rationale behind the specific requirement of 5,000 lbs is to account for dynamic forces that occur when a person falls, providing a substantial safety margin.

Adherence to this strength standard is crucial for ensuring safety and preventing injuries in situations where falls from heights could occur. Therefore, selecting a breaking strength of 5,000 lbs aligns with established safety protocols designed to protect workers in potentially hazardous environments.