Here we delve a little more into what the fall protection ABC is and what to think about.
The ABC of fall protection purpose is to explain what makes a complete fall protection system. When working at height you need a complete system to work safely. The equipment varies depending on the methods used and the type of work environment.
A - ANCHORAGE POINT
The anchorage point for the connecting line has to be a safe attachment able to take a load of at least 12 kN. Existing points can, for example, be found in I-beams, scaffolding or other fixed or structural points. These existing points may need to be supplemented with a mobile anchorage point/anchorage sling.
- Permanent anchorage: Fixed anchorage points, horizontal wire systems or horizontal rail systems
- Mobile anchorage: Anchorage slings made from webbing or wire
B - FULL BODY HARNESS
Used to hold and, in the event of a fall, safely catch the user before, during and after a fall.
- Full body harness must be used for all fall protection situations
C - CONNECTING LINE
Used between the full harness and the anchorage point.
- Fall arrest lanyard: Maximal length of 2 meters with shock absorber
- Self retractable lanyard (SRL): With self-retractable line and integrated shock absorber
- Fall arrest line: Fall protection with manual or automatic rope grab with shock absorbing function
- Support lanyard: Only to be used as a restraint system.
(In environments where there is a fall risk, the support lanyard must be used together with one of the above connecting devices.)
For more information and practical training, we recommend our Fall Protection Basic Course.