To minimize the chance of injury in the event of a fall, lanyards should be kept:

• A. As long as possible
• B. As short as possible
• C. Until reaching anchor
• D. Adjustable

Answer: (B)

Shortening the lanyard minimizes how far you could fall before the system engages and energy is absorbed. A shorter length cuts the free-fall distance, lowers peak forces on your body, and reduces the chance you’ll swing into objects below or beneath obstacles. While you still need enough length to move safely and reach your working area, using the shortest practical length gives the strongest safety benefit in a fall. Longer lanyards increase fall distance and energy to dissipate, raising injury risk, and while an adjustable lanyard offers flexibility, it should be set to the minimum length necessary for the task.