Electric Power Standards- Aerial Lift Fall Protection

Can a 6 foot shock absorbing lanyard be used while working from an aerial lift?  The answer requires an assessment to determine if the system will provide worker protection in the event of a fall. A 6 foot shock absorbing lanyard is a fall arrest system with clearance limitations that must be assessed. The system will tipically require between 16 to 20 feet of clearance before it fully engages which could allow a worker to sustain a serious injury from hitting a surface below. An employer has to determine if work is performed when an employee could be at distances to hit a structure or lower level, such as working on secondary, decorative street lights and many other work tasks. OSHA recommends that workers use the shortest lanyard practicable during ascent and descent and when working over structures to maximize worker protection.