Fall Arrest and Fall Restraint Systems
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Fall Arrest and Fall Restraint Systems
Fall arrest and fall restraint are two different types of personal fall protection used when collective measures such as guardrails are not practicable. Fall restraint prevents the user from reaching a fall edge. Fall arrest stops a fall after it has started using a harness and energy absorber. Understanding the difference and selecting the correct system for the task is critical because using the wrong system can result in serious injury or death.
- Select the correct system: fall restraint to prevent reaching the edge, fall arrest to stop a fall.
- Ensure all users have received formal training in the system they are required to use.
- Inspect harnesses, lanyards, and connectors before every use following the manufacturer's checklist.
- Calculate the required fall clearance distance before using any fall arrest system.
- Use only anchor points rated to the required load and approved by a competent person.
- Ensure a rescue plan is in place before any work using fall arrest equipment begins.
- Store equipment in a clean, dry location away from chemicals, heat, and UV light.
- Remove from service any equipment that has been subject to a fall arrest or shows any damage.
- Record all inspections and thorough examinations in the equipment register.
If a worker is suspended in a harness after a fall arrest, activate the rescue plan immediately. Suspension trauma can become life-threatening within minutes. Lower the casualty to the ground and call 999.
- Fall restraint prevents you from reaching the edge — fall arrest stops you after a fall.
- You must be trained before using any personal fall protection system on a construction site.
- Inspect your harness, lanyard, and all connectors before every single use without exception.
- Suspension trauma can kill within 15 minutes — a rescue plan must always be ready.
- After any fall arrest event, remove all equipment from service for inspection by a competent person.
- Never use fall arrest without calculating the clearance distance needed below the anchor point.
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