The dorsal D-ring, pigtail D-ring, or web loop are the primary means for which type of attachment?

• A. Fall arrest
• B. Work positioning
• C. Lifting
• D. Rescue

Answer: (A)

When you’re using a harness for protection against a fall, the back attachment points are designed to bear the dynamic load of a fall and keep you oriented during arrest. The dorsal D-ring sits on the back between the shoulder blades and is the primary anchor for a fall-arrest lanyard or decelerator. The pigtail D-ring is a secondary rear attachment that provides another option for connecting a short or redundant lanyard, still focused on arresting a fall. The web loop is a reinforced back loop that serves a similar purpose when a metal D-ring isn’t accessible or preferred, also meant for fall arrest. These points are chosen specifically to handle the forces of a fall, rather than for work positioning, lifting, or rescue tasks.