Anchorage points for fall arrest for a single person MUST be able to hold:

Anchorage points for fall arrest systems are critical for ensuring the safety of personnel working at heights. The requirement for these points is based on the need to withstand significant forces that occur during a fall.

The correct answer, which is 5000 lbs, aligns with established safety standards and guidelines that dictate the minimum strength an anchorage point must possess. According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations, any anchorage point used for personal fall arrest must be able to withstand a minimum load of 5000 lbs. This requirement ensures that the anchor can handle the dynamic forces that might be exerted during a fall, thereby preventing system failure.

By ensuring that anchorage points are capable of supporting a force of 5000 lbs, the safety of workers is vastly increased, as it provides a strong, reliable attachment point for fall protection devices. Relying on lower capacities may create a risk of catastrophic failure in the event of a fall, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Therefore, the design and selection of anchorage points are guided by rigorous standards to prioritize worker safety in fall protection scenarios.