fall protection

Fall protection systems are essential for safeguarding workers operating at heights. These systems are made up of multiple components that work together to prevent falls or reduce the severity of injury if a fall occurs. The key components of a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) include:

1. Anchor Point (Anchorage)

A secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards, or deceleration devices. Anchor points must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per worker attached or must be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of a qualified person.

2. Body Harness

A full-body harness distributes fall forces across the shoulders, thighs, and pelvis. It includes D-rings for connecting to lanyards or lifelines, typically located on the upper back (dorsal D-ring).

3. Connecting Device

This links the harness to the anchor point. It can include:

  • Shock-absorbing lanyards: Reduce impact force during a fall.

  • Self-retracting lifelines (SRLs): Automatically retract and extend with worker movement and lock during a fall.

  • Rope grabs and vertical lifelines: Used for vertical mobility along ladders or structures.

4. Lifelines

Flexible lines that connect to an anchor point and provide a path for movement while connected to the harness. They may be:

  • Vertical Lifelines: Hang down from an anchorage above.

  • Horizontal Lifelines: Span horizontally to provide continuous protection along a work surface.

5. Connectors

Snap hooks, carabiners, and other devices used to connect various system components. These must be locking-type and capable of sustaining significant loads without failure.

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