Key Terms

Competent person: An OSHA-defined competent person is capable of identifying and correcting hazards based on experience and/or training. Competency can only be determined by an employer. A competent person is different from an OSHA-defined qualified person. A qualified person possesses a degree, certificate, or professional title and has demonstrated through knowledge, training, and experience that they can solve or resolve problems relating to the subject, work type, or project.

Leading edge: The edge of a floor, roof, or formwork for a floor or other walking or working surface, which changes location as additional sections are placed. A leading edge is an "unprotected side and edge" during periods when it is actively under construction.

Personal fall arrest system (PFAS): A system used to arrest a worker in a fall from a working level. Personal fall arrest systems contain an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness but may also include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or any combination of these necessary for the worker’s safety.

Safety factor: The ratio of the ultimate breaking strength of a member or piece of material or equipment to the actual working stress or safe load when in use.

To learn more about Fall Protection visit our Construction Fall Protection Online Training web page.