What safety measure should be taken when working at heights of 10 feet or more?

When working at heights of 10 feet or more, the most effective safety measure to prevent falls and ensure worker safety is the use of a safety harness. A safety harness is designed to secure the individual to a stable anchor point, significantly reducing the risk of injury in the event of a fall.

Using a safety harness provides a direct line of protection and is a fundamental component of fall protection systems mandated by regulations. It allows the worker to maintain mobility while also being secured, which is crucial when working at such heights.

While having another individual hold the ladder, securing the ladder with ropes, and working in teams of three or more can provide support and additional safety aspects, they are not substitutes for securing oneself with a harness. Each of those practices has its merits, but they lack the direct protective capability of a safety harness.