Fall arrest
Fall arrest systems are designed to safely stop a person falling and reduce the impact of a fall. It should only be used in instances where is not possible or practical to use a fall prevention system.
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Fall arrest – protecting lives after a fall
Fall arrest systems stop the fall of a worker once it has already occurred. In the hierarchy of control, fall arrest is the least favourable method of protection as it does not prevent the worker from falling and can still result in an injury.
However, fall arrest systems should still be used if other means are not practicable.
With fall arrest and fall restraint systems your Duty of Care is not complete with simply the provision of systems.
If fall arrest systems are installed on your buildings, or you are considering installing them on your buildings, you must also ensure that the personnel who will be using them are fully trained in their operation.
Choosing a fall arrest system
When choosing a fall arrest system for your building, there are three main factors to consider:
What tasks will need to be carried out?
How frequently will the tasks need to be carried out?
How competent are the personnel performing the tasks?
What are the risks associated with the tasks?
Once these factors have been determined, use the table below to help evaluate your requirements.
| Maintenance Category | Item | Maintenance Frequency | Example System |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Priority | Mechanical Plant and Equipment Hot water units, A/C units, refrigeration units, mechanical exhausts, ect. | Frequent | Fall Protection Passive Fall Protection (Permanent) ie. Permanent Guardrail, Skylight Protectors |
| B Priority | Gutters, Windows and Garden Planters Eave gutters, box gutters, clerestory windows, roof lights, garden planters ect. | Periodic | Fall Protection Active Fall Protection (Permanent) ie. Fall Arrest Anchor Point, Static Line, Rigid Rail |
| C Priority | General Roof Access Parapets, flashings, roof sheeting, concrete membrane etc. | Infrequent | Fall Protection Temporary Fall Protection ie. Temporary Guardrail, Temporary Anchor Point, Elevated Work Platform |
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Anchor pointsAllow maintenance personnel to safely access and work on roofs and facades by providing a secure anchor to attach to while at heights.
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Static linesMaintain continuous attachment for multiple workers navigating roof structures at heights.
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Rigid railsOffer continuous attachment to help personnel navigate structures below safely.
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Take the risk out of height safety designs
Our height safety system design specialists have a deep understanding of industry requirements and help you meet your obligations for fully compliant systems right from the start.
Exceed compliance
Minimise ongoing costs
Reduce rework
Protect lives
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