Working-at-height PPE

Harnesses

Man secured in working at height by a harness attached to his back

Absolutely essential when either working at elevated positions or gaining access to subterranean installations. Several versions are available, catering for low-risk general purpose use to high risk multi-purpose applications. All harnesses provide for easy adjustment, are designed to be tight and comfortable to wear, and offer minimal interference to mobility. They are usually manufactured from nylon webbing which is well known for its elasticity and shock absorbant properties. Only non corroding metal fittings are used.

Multi-purpose Harnesses

These are full harnesses identified by thigh straps which are attached to, or an integral part of, the shoulder straps. A facility for leaning is provide by static “D” rings which are attached to each side of the harness. Provision is made for full suspension, in some cases by a single static “D” ring in the centre of the back or adjustable chest and dorsal “D” rings. This type of harness is ideal when there is a high risk of failing. In such cases we recommend the use of a tall arrest device as opposed to a static safety line.

Lanyards

A lanyard is a safety device used to secure a worker’s harness to an anchor point, typically in fall protection systems. It is a critical component for preventing falls when working at heights, ensuring that workers remain attached to a stable structure or surface.

Types of Lanyards:

  1. Single Lanyard: This is a basic lanyard with two ends, one for the worker’s harness and the other for the anchor point. It’s commonly used when there’s a fixed and secure anchor point.
  2. Double Lanyard (or Y-Lanyard): This lanyard has two attachment points, allowing the worker to remain attached to the anchor at all times while moving between anchor points. It’s often used for continuous fall protection when workers need to move or reposition frequently.
  3. Self-Retracting Lanyard (SRL): This type of lanyard features a spring-loaded reel that automatically retracts when not in use. When the worker moves, the lanyard extends, and if a fall occurs, it locks, preventing the worker from falling any further. These are particularly useful in environments with limited space or where the worker’s mobility is essential.
  4. Energy-Absorbing Lanyard: These lanyards are designed to reduce the forces on the body during a fall by using a shock-absorbing mechanism, often in the form of a tear-away component or a webbing that elongates under tension.

Fall Arrest Blocks & Rescue Devices

Fall arrest blocks and rescue devices are key components in fall protection systems, designed to ensure worker safety during high-risk tasks at height. These devices are used to stop a fall, minimize injury, and, in some cases, provide a means of rescue if a worker becomes incapacitated or stranded.

  1. Fall Arrest Blocks (Self-Retracting Lifelines – SRLs)
    A fall arrest block (also known as a self-retracting lifeline or SRL) is a safety device that automatically adjusts to the worker’s movements and provides immediate fall arrest in the event of a fall
  2. Rescue Devices
    Rescue devices are essential for safely retrieving workers who have fallen and are suspended in their harnesses or are unable to get down by themselves. These devices are crucial for minimizing the risks associated with suspension trauma (which can occur when a person is left hanging in a harness for too long).

For more information

Many other products, from rescue kits to carabiners, are available. If you would like further information contact our office and we can discuss your requirements.

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