What is the 'three-point rule' in basic fall protection on the roof?

• A. Always have three crew members on the roof
• B. Maintain three points of contact at all times (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) while moving, with fall protection as available
• C. Keep three tools in use at all times
• D. Use three points of foot contact only

Answer: (B)

The main idea is stability through contact. The three-point rule means you always have three points of contact with the surface as you move on the roof—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. This creates a stable base so a slip or loss of one limb doesn’t cause a fall, because two other contact points are still securing you. If you need to reposition or reach out, pause, reestablish three points of contact, then proceed. Fall protection should be used whenever available, but maintaining three points of contact stays as a fundamental habit to stay balanced while moving on the roof.