Fall arrest systems protect workers from serious injuries by absorbing the kinetic energy of a fall and preventing the person from falling any further or colliding with objects. The systems involve a harness, lanyard and self-retracting lifelines which when worn correctly works to minimise the severity of the fall.
As with any safety equipment, fall arrest systems need to be continually inspected and maintained.
Here is an overview of the importance of properly installed and maintained fall arrest systems, along with the key aspects to look out for.
Fall Arrest System Components
When installing a fall arrest system, the main components include harnesses, lanyards, lifelines and connectors.
It is essential that each of these components are installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions, including ensuring that all hardware is properly tightened so that the correct amount of slack will be provided should a fall occur. The clearance distance should be considered when installing the equipment and making any necessary adjustments.
Safety When Working At A Height Training
Even when a fall arrest system is correctly installed, efforts to protect workers may be futile without the correct knowledge and training. All workers must know how to work safely at a height, and must receive training in any equipment used to prevent falls including fall arrest systems. Crucially, workers must be able to safely determine which fall protection equipment is most suitable, as other systems also exist beyond fall arrest systems, such as fall restraint systems.
Employers should also devise a fall protection plan, and review this regularly including if the conditions or environment of the job are subject to change. A fall protection plan should cover all installation procedures, equipment inspection requirements, rescue procedures and necessary training.
Inspection & Equipment Deployment Protocols
Before any fall arrest systems are used, they must be fully inspected for defaults or damage. If the equipment is not in full working order, it must not be used. Employers must also be mindful of the manufacturer’s guidance on equipment maintenance, along with the product lifespan.
An important point to note about fall arrest systems is that if a lanyard is deployed, the equipment must not be reused.
Metreel – Fall Arrest Systems UK
The above information is not intended to be a complete guide on the safe use of fall arrest systems. However, these points do cover the importance of why the correct installation and maintenance of fall protection equipment is essential to protect workers against the risk of falls.
Metreel supplies fall arrest systems to various industries across the UK. This makes us best placed to offer an individual consultation to ensure your team is best protected.
Alongside viewing our product brochure you can also find out more about our products by calling us on 0115 932 7010 or emailing us at [email protected].