What does the term 'fall arrest' refer to in safety practices?

The term 'fall arrest' refers to a specific safety system designed to stop a worker from falling after a potential slip or misstep has occurred. This system typically involves equipment like harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points that are engineered to catch a person who is in free fall, thereby preventing them from hitting the ground and sustaining injury. The primary focus of a fall arrest system is to minimize the distance and impact of a fall, ensuring that the worker remains safely suspended until they can be recovered.

Understanding 'fall arrest' as a proactive measure is essential for safety in environments where falls are a risk, and it emphasizes the importance of using appropriate equipment and training in its use. In contrast, other options refer to various aspects of fall safety practices, such as preparation or instruction, but they do not specifically capture the essence of stopping a fall, which is the core function of fall arrest systems.