Did you know there is a difference between a fall restraint and a fall arrest system?
Key Differences
The main difference between a fall restraint and a fall arrest system is when they are activated. A fall restraint prevents a fall from occurring while a fall arrest stops a fall that has already started.
Fall Restraint
A fall restraint prevents a fall by keeping workers from reaching a hazardous area. This works by keeping the worker within a set work area on a raised platform. Fall restraint systems are often made up of a horizontal safety line and a lanyard attached to the workers harness.
In a simpler way, with a fall restraint, the worker does not fall.
Fall Arrest
A fall arrest system stops a worker from falling and hitting the ground below after they’ve already started to fall. This system allows workers to move freely while preventing them from falling. The fall arrest systems take into account the free fall distance, deceleration distance, D-ring shift, and more which helps calculate where the system should be placed to prevent the worker from contacting the ground if they fall.
In a simpler way, with a fall arrest, the worker falls but is arrested or stopped mid-air before they reach the ground.
Importance of Fall Protection Systems
Fall restraint and fall arrest systems are both apart of fall protection systems that is required by law when working at heights. Fall arrest systems should be used as a last resort and should include a rescue plan.
They are a last resort because they allow the workers to move freely which increases the risk of falls and because this system does result in the worker falling. When a worker falls, a rescue is required as suspension trauma is a main hazard after a fall occurs.
Which System Do I Choose?
There are 2 main things to consider when choosing between a fall restraint and a fall arrest system. First, the work area and second, the work area slope.
If the work area is contained in the center of the space, a fall restraint system is best. If the work area is near edges, a fall arrest system is better.
A fall restraint system can keep workers in a contained area on a sloped surface. A fall arrest system can give workers more mobility on sloped roofs.
OSHA Fall Protection Requirements
OSHA requires fall protection at:
- 4 feet for general industry
- 5 feet for shipyards
- 6 feet for construction
- And 8 feet for longshoring
Conclusion
Picking the correct type of fall protection is crucial to protecting workers against falls. Remember that a fall restraint system does not allow a fall to occur and a fall arrest allows a fall to occur but arrests the worker before they contact the ground.
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