Introduction to Fall Restraint Systems
Learn more about fall restraint systems and how to better protect your workers at heights.
Published 13 Dec 2023
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3 min read
What is a Fall Restraint System?
A fall restraint system, also known as a travel restraint system, is a type or set of protective mechanisms and equipment designed to keep workers at heights from falling and ensure that they do not reach any hazardous part of the working area. It is typically used in industries such as construction, roofing, window and building cleaning, and maintenance.
What are the Components of a Fall Restraint System?
Fall restraint systems come in different forms and sizes for different industries and needs. Common examples of fall restraint systems and fall protection gear include single-point anchors, horizontal lifelines, roof tie off-systems, and the like. However, a typical one consists of these 3 main components:
Anchorage points
Connectors such as carabiners, snap hooks, and other specialized connective devices
Body support equipment such as harnesses and belts
Importance and Main Purpose
The main purpose of a fall restraint system is to ensure the safety of workers at heights. Performing any task high above ground level is always associated with different risks and hazards, so having fall protection systems such as fall restraints are essential.
As they are important to maintaining and promoting safety, using and wearing fall restraint systems is also mandated by law in multiple countries. Some countries with specific laws on fall restraint systems and other fall protection gears and practices include:
Difference Between Fall Restraint vs Fall Arrestor
Fall restraint systems and fall arrestor systems are similar and often used interchangeably. However, there are slight differences between each one.
A fall restraint system is often used for horizontal movement and work. Sometimes called a “travel restraint system,” it works by restricting or limiting the travel or movement of a worker so that they do not reach or fall over hazards and edges.
On the other hand, a fall arrestor or fall arrester is used vertically. Compared to fall restraint systems, a fall arrestor is designed to help workers stay stable in the air and stop or arrest them from falling.
How to Maintain It
Due to the environments they are often used in, fall restraint systems and equipment are prone to wear and tear. It is important to maintain them properly to ensure that they are in good working condition, thus also keeping their wearers and users safe at work.
Some ways you can maintain your fall restraint systems include:
Regularly scheduled maintenance and inspections
Properly storing and caring for your equipment
Regularly training employees on the proper use of equipment to ensure they are used correctly
Replacing or repairing equipment as necessary
Keep Workers Safe at Heights with a Digital Solution
Why use SafetyCulture?
Ensure the safety of your employees and the proper working condition of your fall restraint systems with a digital auditing and safety solution to help you out. With a solution such as SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor), you can easily record safety concerns and conduct risk assessments for workers at heights, making sure they are safe at all times.
SafetyCulture uses digital smart checklists to record and document safety concerns and fall restraint complications, then stores all data in the cloud for easy access anytime and anywhere. You can make your own checklists from scratch and template them for quick reference, or download premade ones from the Public Library and edit them as you see fit.
With SafetyCulture, you can also:
Report issues with fall restraint systems and other safety hazards
Create and assign corrective actions to address problems as they arise
Schedule equipment checks as well as manage and monitor the usage of your fall restraint systems with Assets
Communicate with your team or organization immediately by raising a Heads Up
Monitor lone workers with SHEQSY by SafetyCulture
Train employees on the proper use of fall restraint devices and other fall protection gear
Support your workers with high-quality fall protection gear with SafetyCulture Marketplace
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