Why are fall arrest systems and equipment important for working at heights?
In work carried out at considerable heights where there are mortal risks, it is compulsory to use fall arrest systems and equipment for work protection. Their main function is to protect the worker from a possible fall, achieving a safe stop and arresting the fall.
One of the most common mistakes is not knowing how to differentiate between systems that prevent a fall and systems that arrest it. Fall arrest equipment is a protection system that limits the force of the impact and stops the fall in the event of an accident, i.e. it does not prevent the fall but stops it.
Objectives of fall arrest equipment and systems
As we have said, the function of fall arrest systems is not to prevent a fall but to stop it. Among their objectives, we can highlight the following:
- To ensure that the body travels the shortest possible vertical distance.
- To guarantee safe braking for the worker.
- To guarantee that the worker remains suspended in the air without suffering any damage.
Essential elements of fall arrest systems
Fall arrest harness
The fall arrest harness is the device that holds the body when falling and ensures the correct position of the worker when the fall is arrested. It is essential that it is correctly adjusted to the body and that extreme care is taken when putting it on.
Carabiner
The carabiner is a metal opening system used to attach the different elements of fall arrest equipment. For greater safety it is recommended that it has a screw lock.
Fall arrest devices
Sliding fall arrest devices are a key element in this type of equipment. It is an element that accompanies the worker during his changes of position upwards and downwards, and at the moment that a fall occurs, it locks automatically avoiding an accident.
Energy absorber
The energy absorber is part of the safety harness. It allows the kinetic energy caused by a fall to be dissipated by reducing the speed of the fall. Falls occur at high speed, so it is essential to have this element in place to prevent shock and injury during the accident.
If you need more information on how to identify risks, comply with regulations and how to choose the PPE that best suits your business, our team of experts will advise you at all times on your purchase. Contact us.