{"id":3531,"date":"2025-02-10T22:15:23","date_gmt":"2025-02-10T22:15:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hazardco.com\/au\/?p=3531"},"modified":"2025-02-28T00:35:04","modified_gmt":"2025-02-28T00:35:04","slug":"fall-arrest-equipment-drop-it-like-it-locks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hazardco.com\/au\/blog\/fall-arrest-equipment-drop-it-like-it-locks\/","title":{"rendered":"Fall Arrest Equipment: Drop it like it locks"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to working at height, understanding the difference between fall <\/span>prevention<\/b> and fall <\/span>arrest<\/b> is critical. Fall prevention, also called <\/span>fall restraint<\/b>, stops you from being able to fall in the first place. Think of it as keeping you safely away from the edge. <\/span>Fall arrest<\/b>, on the other hand, is a backup plan, it doesn\u2019t prevent the fall from happening, but catches you if one happens, reducing the risk of death to injuries that are survivable, depending on what you hit.<\/span><\/p>\n

This blog explores fall arrest systems, covering the gear, techniques, and best practices to prevent falls or reduce injuries if a fall happens. Remember, no matter which type of equipment you use it has to be added into your SWMS. To make it even easier to follow, we\u2019ve included short videos demonstrating each step. Let\u2019s break it all down.<\/span><\/p>\n

Is Your Gear Rated and Reliable?<\/b><\/h3>\n

Not all gear is created equal! In fall arrest situations, quality isn\u2019t optional – it\u2019s life-saving. In Australia and New Zealand, fall arrest equipment must meet at least <\/span>AS\/NZS Standards<\/b>. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before anything else, confirm that your equipment complies with these standards, and if it\u2019s something else like <\/span>EN<\/b> or <\/span>ISO<\/b> standards stop and ask questions, if you\u2019re not sure who to ask then call us on 1800 954 702. Look for labels or certifications and ensure you\u2019re using gear designed for fall arrest and not just general-purpose climbing equipment, because yes, there is a big difference! <\/span><\/p>\n

Start at the Foundations: Anchors<\/b><\/h3>\n

A fall arrest system is only as strong as its weakest point. Just like building a house, the foundation must be solid. Your anchor point must be able to withstand the forces generated during a fall – this typically means being rated for at least <\/span>15kN (1,500kg) for 1 person 21kN (2,100kg) for 2 people<\/b>.<\/span>
\nAsk yourself:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  • Is the anchor secure and in good condition?<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Can it handle the load of the system and any potential forces from a fall?<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Is it in the best place for your tasks, will it cause me to pendulum\/swing?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Connectors: Small but Critical<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Connectors are often overlooked, but they\u2019re a vital part of your system. Use <\/span>auto-locking karabiners<\/b> over traditional screw gates – they\u2019re faster to secure and less prone to accidental opening. As can be seen in the video showing the differences between manual and autolocking gates.<\/span><\/p>\n

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