3 Facts You Need to Know About Fall Restraint vs. Fall Arrest System

Falling from heights is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. It is also the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the United States. Thankfully, we have fall arrest and fall restraint systems that can keep employers safe while working high up.

At first glance, fall arrest and fall restraint systems might seem like the same thing. However, there are several important differences when it comes to fall restraint vs fall arrest systems. 

So if you would like to learn more then keep on reading and we will walk you through everything that you are going to want to know. 

1. Fall Restraint Systems Are Meant to Be Limiting

The point of a fall restraint system is that it stops you from being able to reach dangerous places. These systems usually come with a fixed-length lanyard that is connected to an anchor. The length of the lanyard is chosen to prevent the worker from being able to reach a fall hazard.

2. Fall Restraints Come Before Fall Arrest Systems

You should always consider a fall restraint system before a fall arrest system. A fall restraint system can be used when there is limited ground clearance available.

Usually, a fall restraint system means that there is less intervention from the worker because they can work continuously at a certain distance from the anchor.

There is also a very little chance that the worker will fall or be suspended from the harness. 

3. Fall Arrest Systems Provide More Freedom

A fall arrest system will provide a worker with maximum freedom of movement. However, this also means that the worker might reach a position where an accidental fall might take place. If a fall were to happen then the arrest system will make sure that the worker will be caught.

This kind of safety system should only be used when it is not possible to limit the worker from reaching a fall hazard. These kinds of systems would usually be used when work needs to be done on fragile surfaces. They can also be utilized when a worker needs to work over the leading edge of a fall hazard.

If a worker is able to reach a fall hazard then this kind of system will need to be used.

There are several tips that you can follow to make sure that you get the most out of your fall arrest systems. 

The Importance of Knowing Facts About Fall Restraint vs. Fall Arrest System

Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now have a better idea of what the differences are when it comes to fall restraint vs. fall arrest systems. As we can see, both systems are useful but which one you use will depend on what the project calls for.

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