Fall Arrest limiting the distance and effects of a fall
Where a worker requires freedom of movement to climb between platforms, or move around on a structure, then it may not be possible to remove the risk of a fall completely. In these situations it is important to mitigate the consequences of the fall as far as possible. This is a common situation in areas where workers build, maintain or dismantle structures such as scaffolding, steel frame buildings, tower cranes or racking systems.
SpanSet fall arrest systems work by keeping the fall distance and impact forces to within known limits. Different items of equipment achieve this in different ways and understanding this enables users to select the most appropriate method for their application. The fact that this type of fall protection allows the worker to fall also means that consideration must be given to rescue or recovery of a suspended worker to minimise suspension trauma.
The height safety training required for the use of fall arrest systems should include both theoretical and practical sessions so that users can match their understanding to real life applications. The theory side must look at all aspects from planning through to implementation and rescue.
All SpanSet fall arrest systems will limit the impact forces applied to the user to below 6kN. Some systems achieve this by limiting the potential fall thus preventing the user gathering momentum. Alternatively equipment can allow the fall to occur and slow the falling user down over a known distance by dissipating the energy generated.
When considering clearance heights users should take into account obstacles such as plant, machinery, structural elements as well as platforms or floor levels. Items that limit the fall distance generally require anchorages above the user to be effective, but are better suited where clearance height is a problem. Where the only anchorages are at or below the users foot level then fall arrest systems that can dissipate energy are generally more appropriate, but they will require increased clearance height.
Rescue planning may seem daunting, but SpanSet pioneered the provision of rescue solutions designed for one worker to rescue another. Rescue solutions range from improvised methods utilising available access equipment, to the complex and bespoke techniques of the emergency services and through to simple pre assembled kits. The key is selecting the right one for the user and their application.
Anchor
The anchor point for a Fall Arrest System must be able to withstand the shock load generated as the fall is arrested. Therefor e in every situation SpanSet recommends that the worker selects an anchor point that is unquestionably sound, or an anchor device which is tested to EN795.
Connector
The connector in a fall arrest system performs the critical function of arresting the workers fall. The aim is to have as little “slack” as possible, so that the connector will begin to arrest the fall as soon as possible. However some connectors also include energy absorbing elements that are able to reduce the impact force of the fall when there is signifi cant “slack” in the system. The choice of connector may be infl uenced by the clearance height available below the user
Harness
The harness must be able to support the workers body in the correct position as the fall is arrested. The European standard ensures the harness will always be strong enough to do its job, however it is essential that the worker has the correct size of harness for it to function properly. It must also be practical and comfortable in use while the worker is moving and carrying out their normal tasks.
Training
Training is the essential fi nal element in a Fall Arrest System, because of the inherent risks of incorrect use. The worker must be certain that each of the components already described has been chosen correctly and that they are fully competent in there use. If the worker is not able to understand the correct use, or the potential consequences of misuse, then the employer has a legal responsibility to address this through training. There are no second chances when a worker falls. SpanSet has a range of modular training courses that are designed to be added together to achieve the appropriate level of training for your work force.
