Final answer:
In residential construction, OSHA mandates that workers must wear a safety harness if they can fall more than six feet to ensure their protection from potential accidents.
Step-by-step explanation:
In residential construction, safety regulations mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require that workers are protected by a harness if they have the potential to fall more than six feet. OSHA has established a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure the well-being of workers on construction sites, including the provision of fall protection systems. These safety protocols are implemented to avoid accidents such as falls from heights, which could lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
The importance of safety harnesses in preventing workplace injuries is underscored by historical tragedies such as the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire. The fire highlighted the dire consequences of insufficient safety measures in workplaces. Today, OSHA's regulations help to avoid such incidents by requiring fall protection and other safety equipment, thereby protecting workers from recognized hazards.