Введение
Working at height is inherently risky in the construction industry. Whether your team is erecting scaffolding, performing maintenance, or accessing elevated structures, the potential for a fall remains one of the most significant hazards. That’s where a well-designed fall protection strategy becomes indispensable. While guardrails, сети безопасности, and other passive means are often first-line options, there are many cases where these measures are not practical or feasible. In those situations, a properly implemented personal fall arrest system (PFAS) plays a critical role in protecting workers from serious injury or worse.
This article breaks down the three key components of a PFAS—from wearable gear to anchorage design—and explains why each element matters. For manufacturers, contractors, and scaffold erectors alike, understanding these components is essential not just for compliance, but for effective risk management and site safety culture.
What is a Personal Fall Arrest System?
A personal fall arrest system (PFAS) is a system of equipment designed to safely stop a worker’s fall before he or she contacts a lower level or obstruction. It is typically used when other forms of fall protection (such as guardrails or safety nets) are either impractical or cannot be used for the task at hand.
A PFAS comprises three major components that must work together: the full body harness, the connecting means, and the anchorage point. Neglecting one component can compromise the entire system’s performance. Workers using a PFAS must do so under the supervision of a Competent Person—someone who can identify, evaluate and control fall hazards, and ensure that the system is installed and used correctly.
Component 1 – Full Body Harness
What it is
The full body harness is the wearable part of the PFAS. It’s worn by the worker and serves as the link between the worker and the fall-protection system. Safety belts (body belts) are no longer considered acceptable for fall arrest because they concentrate forces onto a narrow part of the body, increasing the risk of slipping out and suffering greater injuries.
Why it’s critical
When a fall occurs, the forces acting on the worker and the system are significant: gravity, acceleration, deceleration, and impact. The full body harness distributes those forces across the shoulders, thighs and pelvis, reducing the likelihood of serious injury. It also ensures the worker ends up in an upright suspended position, which is safer for rescue and helps avoid suspension trauma.
Key requirements
A full body harness must:
- Distribute arresting forces throughout the body
- Keep the wearer upright after a fall
- Limit the maximum arresting force to 1,800 lbs (approx. 8 kN)
- Include keepers or features to control loose strap ends and prevent entanglement
Ensure any harnesses specified or supplied meet international standards (e.g., EN 361 in Europe, ANSI/ASSP Z359 in the U.S.) and are compatible with the connecting means and anchorage points used on site.
Component 2 – Connecting Means
Определение
The connecting means links the harness to the anchorage point and plays a key role in determining the fall distance and arresting the fall safely. There are two key types: the lanyard and the self-retracting lifeline (SRL).
How it limits fall distance and force
- Lanyard: A short flexible line of rope, wire rope, or webbing with connectors. Some include shock absorbers to reduce arresting forces. Lanyards must be no longer than 6 feet (approx. 1.8 m), include a deceleration device, and meet a minimum tensile load of 5,000 lbs.
- Самовтягивающийся страховочный трос (SRL): Retracts automatically into its housing, limiting the free-fall distance to 2 feet or less. SRLs must meet a minimum tensile load of 3,000 lbs.
Connectors (D-rings, snaphooks, carabiners) must match in size and design, and their gates must withstand at least 3,600 lbs. Carabiners and snaphooks must be self-locking or double-locking to prevent roll-out.
Application for scaffold & construction contractors
When designing access systems such as scaffolding or formwork, choosing the right connecting means is critical. If swing fall or obstructions are a concern, SRLs offer advantages due to shorter fall distances. Standard lanyards may suffice if they meet length, shock absorption, and connector requirements. Workers must be trained to use and inspect these devices correctly.
Component 3 – Anchorage Point
What counts as an anchorage
The anchorage point is the fixed or semi-fixed point to which the connecting means attaches. It must support the load generated by a fall arrest and must be installed independently of the temporary work structure. Structural steel members are commonly used.
Design / load requirements
Each anchorage point must:
- Withstand a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 lbs (approx. 22 kN) per person attached
- Be installed according to design requirements that support the intended load
- Be independent of the work being performed
- Be located to limit free-fall to no more than 6 feet unless specially engineered
- Be positioned to minimize swing-fall hazards
Practical considerations
In construction and scaffold work, anchorage design is often a challenge. Ensure a dedicated certified anchor point is present in the scaffold or structure. Avoid relying on pipes, handrails, or non-certified components. Rescue planning must also factor in anchor location to ensure timely retrieval of suspended workers.
Integrating a PFAS into Your Fall Protection Program
A PFAS should be part of a broader fall protection strategy, particularly when passive measures are not viable. Key considerations include:
- Competent Person: Authorised to implement fall-protection measures and take corrective action
- Training & Inspection: Workers must be trained; equipment must be inspected daily and periodically
- Rescue Planning: Prolonged suspension can lead to trauma—plan for timely rescue
- Assessment: Evaluate fall distance, swing fall, and obstructions before system use
- Documentation & Compliance: Ensure components meet standards such as ANSI Z359 or EN 795, and maintain records
For scaffold manufacturers, ensure systems offer certified anchorage points and are compatible with standard PFAS gear. Scaffold layout should account for both access and fall protection.
Заключение
- A PFAS comprises a full body harness, connecting means, and anchorage point
- Each component must meet design and load standards
- Anchorage must be strong, correctly positioned, and independent of temporary work structures
- A competent person must supervise use; workers need training and rescue planning
- Scaffold designs should integrate PFAS requirements for safety and regulatory compliance
Часто задаваемые вопросы
Can I still use a body belt instead of a full body harness for fall arrest?
No. Body belts are no longer accepted for fall arrest. A full body harness is required to distribute forces and keep the worker upright.
What is the maximum free-fall distance allowed under a PFAS?
Generally, the system must prevent free fall of more than 6 feet unless specially engineered. SRLs limit it to 2 feet or less.
What if the worker might swing into an object during the fall?
Use an SRL to reduce fall distance and minimize swing fall risks. Proper anchorage positioning is also crucial.
How strong must the anchorage point be?
Anchors must withstand at least 5,000 lbs (22 kN) per person attached.
How does this apply to scaffold systems?
Ensure your scaffolding includes certified anchorage points and is compatible with harnesses and lifelines. Scaffold layout should support PFAS integration.
Russian 
English 
Swedish 
Italian 
Arabic 
German 
French 
Spanish 
Finnish 
Estonian 