When working at height, understanding the difference between fall arrest and fall restraint systems is crucial for selecting the right equipment. These terms may sound similar but it's important to understand the difference between them so you can best decide on the right equipment for the job.
Fall Arrest vs Fall Restraint
What is the difference between a fall restraint and a fall arrest? The key difference between a fall arrest system and a fall restraint system lies in their operation:
- A fall arrest system will stop you mid-fall, preventing you from hitting the ground and suffering injury or worse - it arrests your fall. Fall arrest equipment includes blocks, lanyards, harnesses, and anchor points, allowing for a wide range of motion while providing fall protection.
- A fall restraint system will stop you from falling by restraining you before you move into a space where a fall could occur.
It's as simple as that. So, how do they work?
What is a fall arrest system?
A fall arrest system allows the wearer a full range of motion, to move freely about areas where there is a high risk of falling. They consist of fall arrest blocks, safety lanyards, harnesses, and anchor points. Should they fall, the lanyard catches them before they hit a lower surface like the ground, minimising the risk of injury upon impact. Since fall arrest systems need to allow a wide range of movement whilst also being able to suddenly halt a fall, fall arrest anchor systems are usually fixed to an anchor point that allows for movement, such as a rail or zip line. In comparison, fall restraint anchors are fixed in place.
When to use a fall arrest system
Fall arrest systems are typically used when a person needs to work on fragile surfaces where there is a fall hazard.
What is a fall restraint system?
A fall restraint lanyard is used in conjunction with a harness and anchor point. The restraint lanyard is adjustable to a length that limits movement when working in areas where there is a risk of falling. Fall restraints greatly reduce the risk of injury by stopping wearer from passing into dangerous areas where there’s a potential to fall, preventing an accident before it occurs.
When to use a fall restraint system
Fall restraint systems are more commonly used and should always be the first consideration before using a fall arrest system because they are designed to stop a fall altogether. Fall restraint systems can also be used when there is limited ground clearance below the work area.
Harness Safety
Fall arrest and fall restraint systems are vitally important, but you need to make sure you have the right one set up for your work. Fall restrain systems are well-suited to work done in a MEWP, for example, to stop the worker leaning too far out and falling.
Fall arrest systems are better suited to those tasks where the risk of falling can't be avoided, such as on fragile roofs. They tend to be a last resort when other safety systems can't be utilised.
There is nothing more valuable than a worker’s wellbeing and safety. If you’re going to be working at height, or if you have any queries about our products, don't hesitate to get in touch.
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