What is the definition of fall arrest in rope access work?

The definition of fall arrest in rope access work refers to any method designed to stop a person from falling after a slip or loss of balance has occurred. It involves systems that are intended to prevent injuries or fatalities that could arise from falls from height. Such systems can include harnesses, lanyards, and various types of anchor points, and they are crucial for ensuring safety while working at elevated positions.

In the context of rope access, fall arrest systems must be properly designed, maintained, and used in conjunction with personal protective equipment to effectively minimize risks. This definition emphasizes the proactive nature of fall arrest techniques, which focus on stopping a fall rather than just preventing the conditions that might lead to a fall.

The other choices don't capture the full essence of what fall arrest means in a rope access context. A complete suspension system may imply a more comprehensive arrangement beyond what is needed solely for fall arrest, while a single point of attachment refers specifically to a solitary anchor, which can be part of a fall arrest system but doesn't encompass its entire definition. A backup safety measure indicates something secondary and does not reflect the primary objective of fall arrest systems. Thus, the selected answer aligns best with the fundamental concept of preventing falls through active arrest methods.