Beginning April 1, 2015, qualified workers must use fall protection while climbing or changing locations on poles, towers, or similar structures. This statement is:

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not specified
• D. Not sure

Answer: (B)

Fall protection is required whenever workers climb poles, towers, or similar tall structures to prevent serious injuries from falls. Qualified workers—those trained and authorized to perform this work—must use a fall protection system during ascent or when moving between locations on the structure. Beginning April 1, 2015, OSHA established the enforcement of this requirement, so by that date employers needed to ensure climbers use appropriate fall protection, such as a full-body harness with a lanyard attached to a proper anchor or another approved fall restraint or arrest method. This need exists because working at height on slender, tall structures carries a high risk of fatal falls, and the protection is there to mitigate that risk. So, the statement is true.