Aerial lifts and body belts: Are they compatible?
The answer depends upon whether the body belt is used in a restraint system or in a positioning device. An employee can continue to use a body belt when the body belt is used in a restraint system—a system that prevents the worker from being exposed to any fall. A body belt is permitted to be used in a positioning device. However, since positioning devices are defined as systems used to protect workers on vertical surfaces, positioning devices are not permitted in bucket-type aerial lifts, where the work surface is horizontal working from an aerial lift. An employee must be protected by a personal fall arrest system. Under §1926.502(d), body belts are not permitted to be used in a personal fall arrest system, and the requirement is not negated by the use of a positioning device that limits any fall to 2 feet. The difference between a restraint system and a positioning device A restraint system is one that prevents a worker from falling any distance. In contrast, for construction work c
