Introduction

When it comes to safety procedures, there are two terms which people often get confused about. One is the fall restraint system and the other is the fall arrest system. While a fall restraint system would prevent the possibility of the user reaching the edge, a fall arrest system will stop the user’s body while it is falling towards the ground.

While the two are quite different from each other, they come under the category of ‘active fall protection’. To benefit from these in real life, one must know how to use them well.

Fall Restraint System

A fall restraint system ensures you do not come in close proximity with a fall hazard and refrain from falling. It is almost like a leash that ensures there is a safe distance between you and the edge. Since you are far away from the ‘drop’, you can engage in different type of activities or work comfortably without feeling worried about falling and getting injured.

You can also expect to find an anchor point in a fall restraint system. There will also be a PPE or personal protective equipment in the form of a safety harness. A fall restraint system is mostly used when you are working on or around a rooftop that is wide open. It protects you from a variety of things like an unprotected rooftop hatch, skylight and a building or platform’s edge.

Fall Arrest System

A fall arrest system features a fall protection anchor point or a bunch of anchor points along with a harness, a self-retracting lifeline and a safety lanyard. This particular system is designed to protect the user from hitting the surface when a fall happens. When a worker needs complete access to their working surface, having a fall arrest system around is advisable.

When an individual is doing something with a railcar or unloading a truck, their working surface would be very narrow and they could attract some risk while trying to move through it. In such a situation, taking the help of a fall arrest system and securing themselves is important.

Conclusion

As stated earlier, fall arrest system and fall restraint system are two different types of active fall protection procedure. Regardless of which system you opt for, you have to engage with the system properly using your mind to keep yourself safe.