FAQ
FAQs
Independent guidance for Working at Height
Submit any questions you have here.
Can a Fall Protection anchor system be designed to resist only Restraint loads and not Arrest loads?
No, standards and guidance only allow this in very limited circumstances.
The main issue is 'foreseeable misuse'. The manager / designer / inspector would need to ensure there was a negligible possibility of the anchor being used when there is a fall risk. This would require complete control over user competency, PFPE and any changes to the processes or environment. The liability for any potential harm would lie with the controlling mind and so this scenario should be avoided.
What Fall Clearance is required when using a Personal Fall Arrest System?
6.5 metres minimum is a good guide figure to work to, or more than two storeys.
The clearance required is dependent on:
- horizontal distance of the anchor from the edge
- vertical distance of the anchor from the edge
- length of lanyard (or other connecting PFPE)
It is not usually possible to have enough clearance with one storey. If there is two storeys clearance, the detail of the design needs to be checked carefully. For three storeys or more, there should be no issues with clearance.