What is meant by "fall protection" in scaffolding?

"Fall protection" in scaffolding refers specifically to measures taken to prevent workers from falling while they are working on or near the scaffold structure. This includes strategies such as the installation of guardrails, the use of safety harnesses and lanyards, and ensuring that the surface of the scaffold is stable and secure. The primary goal is to create a safe working environment to minimize the risk of injury from falls, which are one of the leading causes of workplace accidents.

Other options, while relevant to scaffolding safety and operation, do not accurately define "fall protection." For instance, procedures for ensuring proper scaffolding assembly are critical for structural integrity, and equipment used to catch falling loads is important for protecting items rather than people. Furthermore, rules and regulations governing scaffold construction pertain to legal and compliance aspects rather than specific fall protection measures. Thus, the focus on preventing falls directly aligns with the definition of fall protection in this context.