What is required when working over water using a man basket?

When working over water using a man basket, it is crucial to wear a Coast Guard-approved vest. This requirement is rooted in the need for adequate flotation devices to enhance safety for personnel in the event of an accidental fall into the water. A Coast Guard-approved vest is designed to provide buoyancy and is tested to ensure it meets specific safety standards, making it an essential piece of equipment in this scenario.

While a standard safety harness, a life raft, and a hard hat contribute to safety in various contexts, they do not replace the necessity of a flotation device when working above water. A safety harness is important for preventing falls vertically, but it does not assist in water flotation. Similarly, while having a life raft available may be a good safety practice, it does not directly protect personnel if they fall into the water. A hard hat is vital for head protection but does not address the life-threatening risk associated with falling into water. Therefore, the Coast Guard-approved vest stands out as the critical safety measure when operating in such environments.