What does the term "free fall" refer to in fall protection?

The term "free fall" in fall protection specifically refers to the distance a person falls before their fall protection system activates and begins to arrest their fall. This concept is crucial in understanding how fall protection equipment works and the potential risks involved. When an individual falls, there may be a brief period during which they are in free fall, meaning they are descending freely without any stopping or slowing action from the safety mechanism.

Recognizing the distance of free fall is essential for safety calculations and planning, as it helps determine whether the fall protection system can effectively prevent injury and what measures must be taken to ensure that the distance fallen is kept within acceptable limits to avoid hazards. Understanding this term helps professionals in the field make informed decisions about the use of fall protection systems and proper rigging techniques, ensuring enhanced safety in high-risk environments like telecommunications towers.