Fall Arrest Systems Safety

Date: 2025-09-05

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To understand and apply the safety regulations and guidelines for fall arrest systems and equipment to prevent falls from heights.

Introduction

Working at height requires the use of effective fall protection measures. This toolbox talk covers the correct use, inspection, and maintenance of fall arrest systems to ensure your safety.

Key Points

• Fall Protection Preference: When designing a workspace, the order of preference for fall protection is: 1. Fall restraint - Prevent the occurrence of a fall. 2. Fall arrest - Reduce injuries occurring during the fall. [2]
• Fall Restraint Systems: Restraint systems prevent a worker from being exposed to a fall. When a restraint system is used for fall protection in a boom supported aerial work platform, ensure that the lanyard and anchor are arranged so that the operator is not exposed to falling any distance outside the platform. Either a body belt or a harness may be used. [4]
• Fall Arrest Systems: A system that permits an arrested fall is considered a fall arrest system. A full body harness and lanyard that limits the fall distance and arresting force on the person is required. Fall arresting lanyards typically have a shock absorbing section or are a self-retracting lifeline/lanyard. A body belt is prohibited in a fall arrest system. [4]
• Self-Retracting Lifeline/Lanyard: A deceleration device containing a drum-wound line which can be slowly extracted from, or retracted onto, the drum under slight tension during normal employee movement, and which after onset of a fall, automatically locks the drum and arrests the fall. The use of the self-retracting lifeline/ lanyard as a fall arrest lanyard is allowed on boom-supported aerial work platforms. [4]
• External Fall Arrest System: The external fall arrest system is designed to provide a lanyard attach point while allowing the operator to access areas outside the platform. Exit/Enter the platform through the gate area only. The system is designed for use by one person. [3]
• Qualified Person: A "qualified person" is one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training and experience, has demonstrated his/her ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work, or the project. [4]

Hazard Identification

• Incorrect selection of fall protection equipment (e.g., using a body belt in a fall arrest system).: Serious injury or death due to failure of the fall protection system.
• Exceeding the maximum free fall distance.: Increased impact forces leading to injury.
• Using damaged or improperly inspected equipment.: Equipment failure during a fall, resulting in serious injury or death.
• Unstable or unsuitable anchorage points.: Anchorage failure, leading to a fall.
• Swinging fall hazard.: Striking objects during a fall, causing injury.

Control Measures

• Ensure the fall protection system complies with all applicable local, provincial, federal, job site, and manufacturer's requirements.: Consult relevant regulations and manufacturer guidelines to ensure compliance. [1]
• Use a full body harness in fall arrest systems.: Ensure the harness fits properly and is in good condition. [4]
• Limit the maximum arresting force to 1,349 lbs / 6 kN (or 1,798 lbs / 8 kN in some regions).: Use lanyards and self-retracting lifelines that meet this requirement. [2]
• Ensure the fall arrest system does not allow a potential free fall greater than 6ft /1.8m (or 6.6ft/2m in some regions).: Select appropriate lanyard lengths and anchor point positions. [2]
• Inspect fall arrest systems before each use.: Check for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. [5]
• Ensure annual inspection and certification of the external fall arrest system by a competent person.: Maintain records of all inspections and certifications. [3]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Full Body Harness: Must be worn correctly, with all straps properly adjusted to ensure a snug and secure fit. Inspect before each use for any signs of damage.
• Shock-Absorbing Lanyard: Limits the impact force during a fall. Ensure the lanyard is compatible with the harness and the anchorage point.
• Self-Retracting Lifeline (SRL): Provides greater mobility while maintaining fall protection. Ensure the SRL is appropriate for the work environment and is anchored correctly.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. What are the specific fall hazards present on our current job site?
2. How do we ensure our fall arrest equipment is properly inspected and maintained?
3. What is our site-specific rescue plan in the event of a fall?

Emergency Procedures

1. Immediately after a fall, ensure the fallen worker receives prompt medical attention.
2. Suspend work in the area until the cause of the fall is determined and corrected.
3. Inspect all fall protection equipment involved in the incident and remove any damaged equipment from service.

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always prioritize fall restraint over fall arrest whenever possible.
• Regularly inspect all components of your fall arrest system.
• Ensure you understand and follow the site-specific rescue plan.
• Never use damaged or improperly fitted fall protection equipment.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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