What is the difference between fall restraint and fall arrest systems?

Fall restraint systems are designed to prevent a worker from reaching a fall hazard, while fall arrest systems are designed to stop a worker who is already falling. Fall restraint systems typically involve a harness or lanyard that limits a worker's movement to prevent them from reaching a hazardous area. Fall arrest systems, on the other hand, involve a harness and lanyard that will deploy and arrest a fall if a worker does reach a hazardous area. In essence, fall restraint systems prevent falls from occurring, while fall arrest systems mitigate the impact of a fall that has already happened.

Fall Restraint Systems

- Purpose: To prevent workers from reaching a position where they could fall.
- Components:
- Anchorage point
- Restraint device (e.g., lanyard, lifeline)
- Harness or vest
- How it works: Restraint devices are attached to an anchorage point and restrict the worker's movement, keeping them from getting close to potential fall hazards.

Fall Arrest Systems

- Purpose: To stop a fall in progress and minimize the risk of injury.
- Components:
- Anchorage point
- Fall arrest device (e.g., rope grab, self-retracting lifeline)
- Harness or vest
- How it works: Fall arrest devices are attached to an anchorage point and connect to the worker's harness. If a fall occurs, the device activates and prevents the worker from falling more than a short distance.

Key Differences

| Feature | Fall Restraint | Fall Arrest |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Prevention | Stopping |
| Positioning | Restricts movement | Free movement before fall |
| Risk of fall | Low | High |
| Activation | Continuous | Only on fall |
| Distance of fall | Minimal | Can be significant |
| Use | Suitable for working at low heights | Essential for working at dangerous heights |