Make sure you have the right fall arrest equipment
If you work or are planning to work from a height, you need to be aware of the safety issues and the equipment you might need. There are some very simple but safe pieces of equipment that can be used which could save your life. It is however, vital that you have the correct training so that you know how to use the equipment properly and safely. Fall arrest harnesses are very popular items of kit for anyone who works at heights. They are usually very easy to use, lightweight, very strong and fit all shapes and sizes. Here is some useful advice on fall arrest equipment.
There are several types of personal fall protection systems and equipment. Users of these systems require high levels of training and appropriate close supervision: ■ work restraint systems and equipment will include a lanyard which must be adjusted, or set, to a fixed length to prevent the user physically getting to a place where they could fall, eg a roof edge or fragile surface; ■ work positioning systems and equipment enable the user to work in tension or suspension to prevent or limit a fall, eg a boatswain’s chair or linesman. A back-up system is needed in case the main support fails; ■ ro pe access systems use two ropes, a working rope and a safety rope, each secured to a reliable anchor. The user’s harness is attached to both ropes in such a way they can get to and from the work area and the risk of falling is prevented or limited. This type of system could be used to access the side of a tall building where a cradle cannot be used; ■ fall arrest systems and equipment limit the impact force of a fall on the user and prevent them hitting the ground. The anchor point should be as high as possible above the feet of the user to limit the distance of the fall. Equipment should be regularly inspected for wear and damage. You should only consider the use of personal fall protection equipment to prevent or minimise the consequences of a fall when collective preventive measures Click here to continue
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