What component is not a requirement for an effective fall arrest system?

An effective fall arrest system is designed to safely stop a person from falling, and specific components are essential for ensuring this functionality. A safety helmet, while important for head protection and injury prevention in the event of a fall, is not a component required for the fall arrest system itself. Its role is more about personal safety than about arresting a fall.

On the other hand, components such as a body harness, deceleration device, and lifeline all work directly in conjunction to secure an individual and minimize the risk of injury during a fall. The body harness is crucial as it secures the user and distributes the forces experienced during a fall, while the deceleration device allows for a controlled stop and helps absorb the impact. The lifeline connects the harness to an anchor point, vital for maintaining safety during potential falls. Understanding these specific roles clarifies why a safety helmet, though critical for overall site safety, is not a requirement for the functionality of a fall arrest system.