The statement that the impact force of a fall shall not exceed 1,800 pounds of force is achieved by using a harness with a deceleration unit.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Specified
• D. Not Applicable

Answer: (A)

In fall protection, there is a maximum allowable peak arresting force, set to limit the load on the body during a fall. A deceleration unit, typically an energy absorber built into the lanyard or attached to the harness system, increases the stopping distance and time after a fall. This longer stopping path reduces how quickly the body is decelerated, which lowers the peak force exerted on the body—keeping it within the specified limit, commonly 1,800 pounds of force. Therefore, using a harness with a deceleration unit is the way this limit is achieved. Without such a device, the peak force could exceed that threshold, increasing injury risk.