Which of the following describes a body harness in fall protection systems?

A body harness in fall protection systems is designed specifically with multiple straps that work together to distribute the forces experienced during a fall across a larger area of the body. This distribution is crucial because it helps to minimize the risk of injury to the worker by preventing concentrated pressure on any one part of the body during a fall arrest.

In fall protection scenarios, a harness effectively supports the user by ensuring that if a fall occurs, the forces acting on the harness are transmitted around the torso and thighs, helping to stabilize the individual and maintain a safer position post-fall. This is essential for both safety and comfort while working at heights.

In contrast, other options do not accurately describe the function or purpose of a body harness. A body harness is not designed to hold a worker upright, nor is it limited to just climbing ladders, nor is it interchangeable with a safety belt, which does not provide the same level of safety and force distribution as a harness does.