Fall Arrest vs. Fall Restraint: Understanding the Difference

Working at heights presents significant risks, making the selection of appropriate roof fall protection systems critical for safety. Two primary methods – fall arrest and fall restraint, both offering distinct approaches to mitigating these risks.

What is a Fall Arrest System?

A fall arrest system is designed to stop a fall in progress, preventing a worker from hitting the ground. It typically includes a full-body harness, a lanyard, and an anchor point. This system is ideal when unrestricted movement is required, such as climbing ladders or working on narrow platforms where access to edges is unavoidable.

However, fall arrest systems require proper training before use and necessitate a rescue plan, which typically involves additional equipment and preparation. When designing your fall arrest system, it’s crucial to consider the correct height clearance, considering the lanyard length and the total distance between the working platform and the ground, ensuring sufficient room for the system to function effectively.

What is a Fall Restraint System?

In contrast, a fall restraint system prevents workers from reaching fall hazards. Acting as a tether, it ensures safe positioning by restricting access to dangerous edges. These systems are most effective in open spaces where tasks can be completed without approaching hazards like skylights or rooftop edges.

Fall restraint systems also require training for proper use of lanyards and harnesses. They are particularly suitable for small or tight spaces, such as flat roofs, where tasks like gutter cleaning are performed.

Comparing Fall Arrest and Fall Restraint

According to the hierarchy of control, avoidance is the best strategy to prevent falls, and tasks that can be completed on the ground should be done wherever possible. But where avoidance is not possible, then employers need to ensure that they provide other safe access solutions.

Both fall arrest and fall restraint systems are vital components of roof safety equipment. The choice between them depends on the specific work environment and the nature of the tasks:

• Fall Arrest: Allows for greater mobility but requires comprehensive safety planning and equipment. It’s suitable for situations where reaching the edge is necessary.
• Fall Restraint: Limits movement to prevent access to fall hazards, offering a proactive approach to safety. Ideal for tasks that can be completed without approaching the roof edge.

Integrating Roof Edge Protection Systems

In addition to personal fall protection systems, incorporating collective measures like roof edge protection systems enhances overall safety. These systems, such as rooftop guardrail and barriers provide passive protection by preventing falls without relying on user action.

Implementing a combination of fall protection equipment, including roof fall arrest systems and roof edge protection ensures a comprehensive approach to worker safety on rooftops.

Selecting the Right Roof Safety Equipment

When choosing roof safety equipment, consider the specific requirements of your worksite:

• Roof Fall Protection Systems: Comprehensive setups that may include anchors, lifelines, and harnesses
• Roof Fall Arrest Systems: Designed to stop falls in progress, suitable for tasks requiring movement near edges
• Roof Edge Protection Systems: Guardrails and barriers that provide passive fall prevention
• Fall Protection Equipment: Encompasses all tools and devices used to prevent or arrest falls, including PPE like harnesses and lanyards.

By assessing the specific hazards and work conditions, you can select the appropriate combination of systems to ensure maximum safety for workers operating at heights.

Not sure which system is right for your roof? Contact our safety experts for free advice and a customised fall protection solution.