Which personal protective equipment is essential for fall protection in construction?

Harnesses are essential for fall protection in construction because they are specifically designed to prevent workers from falling. A harness is part of a fall arrest system, which also includes lanyards and anchors, helping to secure the worker to a safe point. This equipment is critical when working at heights, as it provides the necessary support and restraint to avoid injury during a fall.

While hard hats and steel-toed boots are important personal protective equipment (PPE) for ensuring safety on construction sites, they do not specifically address fall protection. Hard hats protect against impacts to the head, and steel-toed boots safeguard the feet from heavy objects. However, they do not prevent falls from heights.

The inclusion of harnesses in the correct answer underscores the importance of specialized equipment designed for fall protection, emphasizing that while all types of PPE play a role in worker safety, only harnesses directly protect against fall hazards. Thus, understanding the primary purpose of different types of protective gear is vital for ensuring a safe working environment in construction.