Fall Arrest and Harness Systems are essential PPE components in industries where workers are at risk of falling from heights. These systems are designed to stop or slow a fall and prevent workers from hitting a lower level or surface, significantly reducing the risk of severe injury or death. Proper use, inspection, and maintenance of fall arrest equipment, combined with comprehensive training, are essential to ensure maximum protection.

Key Components of a Fall Arrest System

A fall arrest system is typically composed of three main elements, known as the ABC of Fall Protection:

  1. Anchor Point (A):
    • Purpose: An anchor point is a secure point that provides a stable attachment for the fall arrest system. It must be capable of supporting the load exerted during a fall.
    • Types of Anchors: Temporary anchors (e.g., beam clamps) and permanent anchors (e.g., roof-mounted anchors) are commonly used.
    • Requirements: The anchor point must meet safety standards, usually able to withstand a minimum of 5,000 pounds per worker attached.
  2. Body Harness (B):
    • Purpose: The body harness distributes the forces of a fall across the strongest parts of the body, reducing the risk of injury.
    • Full-Body Harnesses: A full-body harness is required for fall arrest systems and features shoulder, chest, waist, and leg straps to secure the worker.
    • D-Ring Attachment: The harness has a dorsal D-ring on the back for connecting to the lanyard or lifeline, which acts as the attachment point during a fall.
  3. Connecting Device (C):
    • Purpose: Connecting devices link the harness to the anchor point and slow or stop the fall.
    • Types of Connecting Devices:
      • Lanyards: Shock-absorbing lanyards reduce the fall arrest force by elongating upon impact. They are typically designed to limit free fall distance and are used in relatively low fall clearance areas.
      • Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs): SRLs automatically retract and extend with the worker’s movement, providing a shorter fall distance and rapid arrest.
    • Double Lanyards: Also known as “Y-lanyards,” these allow continuous attachment while transitioning between anchor points, providing constant protection.

Types of Fall Protection Systems

  1. Fall Restraint Systems:
    • Purpose: A fall restraint system prevents workers from reaching fall hazards by physically restricting their movement.
    • Components: Typically includes a harness and a fixed-length lanyard attached to an anchor that keeps the worker away from the fall hazard.
  2. Fall Arrest Systems:
    • Purpose: A fall arrest system is designed to stop a fall in progress safely.
    • Components: Includes an anchor, harness, and connecting device, such as a shock-absorbing lanyard or SRL. This system requires adequate fall clearance to stop the fall before hitting a lower level.

Proper Use of Fall Arrest and Harness Equipment

  1. Fit and Adjustment:
    • Proper Fit: The harness should be snug without restricting movement or circulation. Leg, shoulder, and chest straps should be adjusted to ensure a comfortable yet secure fit.
    • D-Ring Position: The dorsal D-ring should be positioned between the shoulder blades, as this location provides the safest and most effective attachment point in the event of a fall.
  2. Donning the Harness:
    • Step into the leg straps, adjust shoulder straps, and fasten chest straps to ensure a snug fit.
    • Secure all buckles and double-check adjustments to ensure the harness stays in place if subjected to fall forces.
  3. Connection to Anchor Points:
    • Always attach to an anchor point rated for fall arrest.
    • Use only compatible connecting devices (e.g., locking carabiners, snap hooks) that prevent accidental disengagement.
  4. Fall Clearance:
    • Calculate Fall Clearance: Ensure that the total fall distance, including lanyard length, deceleration distance, and worker height, does not exceed the available clearance between the worker and the lower level.
    • Swing Fall Hazard: Position anchor points to minimize the risk of a swing fall, which can occur if the worker is not directly below the anchor point.

Inspection and Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance are critical for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of fall arrest systems. Workers should conduct pre-use inspections, while thorough periodic inspections are typically required by safety regulations.

  1. Pre-Use Inspection:
    • Harness: Check for wear, fraying, cuts, burns, chemical damage, and functionality of buckles and D-rings.
    • Lanyard/SRL: Inspect shock absorbers for deployment, check stitching, connectors, and any signs of corrosion, fraying, or mechanical damage.
    • Anchor Points: Verify that anchor points are secure and meet strength requirements.
  2. Periodic Inspections:
    • Follow manufacturer guidelines for periodic inspections, typically performed by a qualified person.
    • Record inspections in a log to ensure that equipment is routinely inspected and compliant.
  3. Storage:
    • Store fall protection equipment in a clean, dry place away from sunlight, chemicals, or sharp objects that may damage the materials.
  4. Replacement:
    • Immediately remove any equipment that shows signs of wear, damage, or previous fall arrest from service.
    • Follow manufacturer-recommended replacement intervals for harnesses, lanyards, and SRLs, as these materials degrade over time.

Training and Compliance

Proper training and compliance with OH&S regulations and industry standards are essential for effective fall protection.

  1. Training Requirements:
    • Workers must receive thorough training on selecting, wearing, and using fall protection equipment.
    • Training should cover hazard assessments, fall clearance calculations, and emergency rescue procedures.
  2. OH&S Standards Compliance:
    • Adhere to OSHA, ANSI, CSA, or other relevant standards to ensure that fall protection equipment meets or exceeds safety requirements.
    • Follow all regulatory requirements for training frequency, inspections, and certifications.
  3. Emergency Preparedness:
    • Develop and implement an emergency rescue plan to ensure quick retrieval in the event of a fall.
    • Train workers on self-rescue techniques, if applicable, and ensure that rescue equipment is readily available on-site.

Summary

Fall arrest and harness systems are essential for protecting workers from the severe risks associated with working at heights. A complete fall arrest system includes anchor points, body harnesses, and connecting devices, such as lanyards or self-retracting lifelines, to minimize the force of a fall. Proper fit, inspection, and regular training are critical components to maximize the effectiveness of fall protection equipment, ensuring worker safety and compliance with safety regulations.