Shoulder D-rings can be used for fall arrest.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only when used with a deceleration device
• D. Only for rescue

Answer: (B)

Fall protection relies on a harness and components that are certified to arrest a fall. Shoulder D-rings are not part of that certified load path. They are not rated to safely distribute the forces of a fall, and using them for arrest would concentrate the force on the shoulder and neck, risking serious injury. The safe and tested load path for fall arrest typically relies on a full-body harness with a dorsal (back) D-ring or other approved anchor points, not on shoulder D-rings. Shoulder D-rings are generally used for positioning, restraint, or certain rescue-related tasks, not for arresting a fall. A deceleration device or rescue-only use does not justify treating a shoulder D-ring as suitable for fall arrest, since the equipment and configuration would not meet safety standards. Therefore, shoulder D-rings should not be used for fall arrest.