Work Restraint and Fall Arrest are two types of safety systems used for working at height, but they serve different purposes and are used in different situations.

Work Restraint

Work restraint is a system that prevents a person from reaching a fall hazard. When used with the correct training and equipment, the restraint system stops the worker from entering areas where a fall could occur.

This is the safest option for working at height, as it completely removes the risk of falling by limiting the worker's movement. Whenever possible, work restraint should always be the first choice for preventing falls.

Key components of a work restraint system include:

Limit of user’s movement: Prevents the worker from reaching hazardous areas.

Harness attachment point: Ensures the worker is securely attached to the restraint system.

Anchor: The fixed point where the worker is tethered.

Lanyard: Connects the worker to the anchor and limits movement.

Fall risk area: The area that is prevented from being accessed by the restraint system.

Fall Arrest

Fall arrest systems are used when working at or near a fall hazard, and are designed to limit the extent and consequences of a fall, should one occur. Fall arrest equipment will arrest the fall and decelerate the worker within a specified distance, reducing the impact of the fall.

Key points of a fall arrest system:

It links the user to a structure or anchor point.

The system uses interconnected components to protect the worker in the event of a fall.

The system’s purpose is to arrest the fall, decelerate the user, and limit the consequences.

Energy absorption: The system reduces the impact force on the worker, ensuring the force does not exceed 6 kN (according to the EN 363 standard).

Deceleration distance: The distance the worker moves during deceleration, which varies depending on the system used.

In simple terms:

Work restraint: Prevents the worker from reaching a fall hazard.

Fall arrest: In the event of a fall, it limits the consequences of the fall.

Summary

Work Restraint: No fall hazard, as the system prevents the worker from entering hazardous areas.

Fall Arrest: A fall is possible, but the equipment limits the consequences by arresting the fall and decelerating the worker.

When carrying out work at height, work restraint systems are generally the safest option, as they eliminate the fall hazard entirely. However, when restraint is not possible, fall arrest systems provide an alternative to limit the impact and consequences of a fall.

Key points:

Work restraint stops the worker from reaching fall hazards and is the safest option.

Fall arrest systems limit the consequences of a fall by decelerating the worker.

Always use the appropriate system for the task and ensure the proper training and equipment are used.

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