How should the faller's arms be positioned to protect the zipper?

How should the faller's arms be positioned to protect the zipper?

• A. Arms loosened
• B. Arms tight and fingers interdigitated
• C. Arms straight out
• D. Hands on hips

Answer: (B)

When a fall is possible or occurring, the goal is to create a compact shield over the torso to protect a vulnerable area like the zipper. Keeping the arms tight against the chest with fingers interlaced forms a solid barrier that is less likely to snag on rope, gear, or the harness during a fall. This posture also reduces the chance of the arms being whipped outward, helping you stay stable and protecting that zipper area from abrasion or impact. Looser arms leave the zipper exposed and more prone to snagging; arms straight out increase exposure and risk of contact with gear; hands on hips don’t provide protection for the torso or zipper area.

When a fall is possible or occurring, the goal is to create a compact shield over the torso to protect a vulnerable area like the zipper. Keeping the arms tight against the chest with fingers interlaced forms a solid barrier that is less likely to snag on rope, gear, or the harness during a fall. This posture also reduces the chance of the arms being whipped outward, helping you stay stable and protecting that zipper area from abrasion or impact. Looser arms leave the zipper exposed and more prone to snagging; arms straight out increase exposure and risk of contact with gear; hands on hips don’t provide protection for the torso or zipper area.