North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the minimum breaking strength requirement for lanyard and vertical lifelines?

1. 3000 lbs

2. 4000 lbs

3. 5000 lbs

4. 6000 lbs

The correct answer is: 5000 lbs

The minimum breaking strength requirement for lanyard and vertical lifelines is specified to ensure the safety of workers who use these fall protection systems. A breaking strength of 5000 lbs provides a considerable margin of safety by accounting for dynamic forces that may arise during a fall. This means that the equipment must withstand not only the weight of a worker but also additional forces generated at the moment of a fall, which can significantly exceed a person’s static weight. In the context of safety regulations and standards in the construction industry, this requirement is crucial to protect workers from injuries associated with falls, which are a leading cause of fatalities on job sites. By specifying a breaking strength of 5000 lbs, it ensures that the equipment is robust enough to maintain integrity even under extreme conditions, thereby reducing the risk of failure when it is most needed. This standard reflects the industry's commitment to worker safety and aligns with guidelines set by organizations such as OSHA. Therefore, a breaking strength of 5000 lbs is essential for ensuring that lanyard and vertical lifelines perform their life-saving function effectively.