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According to the Bureau of Workplace Safety, falls are consistently among the leading causes of workplace injuries that lead to days away from work. The latest available report (2020) showed that over 49,000 workers were injured due to falls to a lower level.
Fall arrest systems are pivotal in safeguarding workers to mitigate these risks. Among the array of fall arrest systems available, two prominent categories stand out: horizontal and vertical fall arrest systems.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the crucial differences between these two systems, their significance, and the circumstances under which each is optimally employed.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reinforces the responsibility of employers to provide their employees with safety equipment appropriate to their work environment. One such equipment is the fall arrest system.
Fall arrest systems are engineered to absorb the energy generated during a fall and gradually bring the falling person to a stop, preventing them from hitting the ground or other surfaces with lethal force. By providing adequate protection, fall arrest systems ensure workers can carry out their tasks at elevated positions without compromising safety.
Horizontal fall arrest systems are designed to protect workers moving along a horizontal plane, such as on rooftops, bridges, or suspended platforms. These systems consist of components, including anchor points, lifelines, connectors, and harnesses.
The lifeline, usually made of high-strength materials like steel cable or synthetic fibers, spans the work area, allowing workers to attach their harnesses and move freely. If a fall occurs, the system's energy-absorbing mechanisms kick into action, dissipating the force of the fall and preventing a sudden jolt to the body.
In scenarios where work tasks involve ascending or descending vertical surfaces like ladders, towers, or confined spaces, vertical fall arrest systems come into play. These systems incorporate ladder safety systems, vertical lifelines, and self-retracting lifelines.
A vertical lifeline typically consists of a cable running alongside the climbing structure, while a self-retracting lifeline allows users to move vertically while keeping the lifeline taut. These systems activate in the event of a fall, arresting the fall and preventing a disastrous impact.
Determining whether to use a horizontal or vertical fall arrest system hinges on the specific task at hand and the environment in which it is performed. Here's a simplified breakdown of when each type is most suitable:
Use a horizontal fall arrest system when:
A horizontal fall arrest system requires the proper installation of anchor points. Consider that your workers need adequate training to properly attach and detach from the lifeline.
Use vertical fall arrest equipment when:
Consider the user's ability to connect to the system properly. The system may restrict lateral movement, unlike horizontal systems.
While horizontal and vertical fall arrest systems aim to protect workers from falls, their distinct designs cater to different tasks and environments. By equipping workers with the appropriate fall arrest system, employers can adhere to safety regulations and foster an environment where employees feel secure while performing their duties at elevated heights.
Do you need quality horizontal and vertical fall arrest systems to make your workplace safer, more effective, and more compliant?
Southeast Rigging is a trusted supplier of quality work safety solutions for many industries. We offer industrial-grade fall protection in various types of work environments. We also provide recommendations to ensure you get the ideal safety solution tailored to your workplace.
Contact us today to learn more about our fall arrest systems.
