What safety feature is provided by FOPS on mobile plant?

FOPS, or Falling Object Protective Structures, are designed specifically to protect operators of mobile plant equipment from the risks associated with falling objects. This protective feature is crucial in environments such as construction sites or forestry operations, where overhead hazards are prevalent. FOPS create a protective barrier above the operator's head, ensuring that if an object falls, it will be deflected away from the operator, thereby reducing the risk of serious injury or fatality.

The focus of FOPS is on safeguarding the operator rather than improving visibility, reducing vibration, or enhancing communication. While improved visibility and communication can be significant factors in mobile plant operations, these are not the primary functions of FOPS; they are designed primarily for safety against falling debris, which makes the option regarding protection from falling objects the correct one.