What is a tool lanyard?

• A. A protective cover for scaffolding.
• B. A device that stops a tool from falling if it is dropped.
• C. A cord used for lifting.
• D. A component that secures tools to prevent loss.

Answer: (B)

A tool lanyard is a safety device that keeps a tool from falling when you’re working at height by attaching the tool to you or to a secure anchor on the structure. The main idea is to catch the tool if your grip slips or you reach out, so it doesn’t drop to people below or cause damage. This is why the best description is a device that stops a tool from falling if it is dropped—it directly addresses preventing injuries and hazards from falling tools.

A protective cover for scaffolding isn’t about holding tools in place, so it doesn’t describe the function. A cord used for lifting serves a different purpose—hoisting tools up and down rather than arresting a fall. A component that secures tools to prevent loss is related but can be broader and doesn’t emphasize stopping a fall, which is the key safety benefit of a tool lanyard.