Abstract: An energy absorptive impalement protection system is utilized in preventing impalement and minimizing injuries due to impact with the end of a concrete reinforcing bar or other similar type of bar. The energy absorptive impalement protection system is comprised of a protective cover apparatus that has a simplified construction comprised of a base that is removably attached to an end of a reinforcing rod, a metal band on the base that surrounds the rod end and reinforces the base against side-to-side movement relative to the rod in response to an impact force, a metal impact plate on the base that absorbs and distributes the force of impact, and a resilient, compressible and stretchable cover on the base that together with the base encloses the band and cover in the apparatus and also absorbs some of the force of impact.