Falls are one of the biggest dangers in construction, maintenance, and industrial work. Many tasks require workers to operate at height, making fall protection a key safety concern. To reduce risks and prevent injuries, selecting the right fall protection system is essential. As one of the leading engineering companies in Kenya, we share some of the useful insights on different types of fall protection systems:
Fall arrest systems:
A fall arrest system is designed to protect workers after a fall has already happened. Instead of preventing the fall, this system stops it mid-air, reducing the force of impact and preventing serious injury.
Fall arrest systems are used in situations where eliminating the risk of falling is not possible. These systems are common in industries where workers perform tasks at great heights without physical barriers. For example, construction workers on rooftops, maintenance crews working on high structures, and engineers repairing tall machinery often rely on fall arrest systems.
Key components of a fall arrest system
- Anchor point – A strong, fixed structure that can support the worker’s weight during a fall. The anchor must be properly secured to withstand impact forces.
- Body harness – A full-body harness distributes the force of a fall across the worker’s body, reducing injury risks. The harness should fit properly and be regularly inspected for wear and tear.
- Connecting device – A lanyard or self-retracting lifeline links the harness to the anchor point. Many of these devices include shock absorbers to reduce the force of impact.
Work positioning systems:
A work positioning system keeps workers secure at height while allowing them to work hands-free. Unlike fall arrest systems, work positioning systems prevent falls by keeping the worker stable in a fixed position.
This system is useful when workers need to stay in one place for an extended period. It allows them to use both hands freely while remaining securely attached to an anchor point. Work positioning systems are commonly used by:
- Utility workers climbing poles or working on towers.
- Window washers cleaning high-rise buildings.
- Maintenance workers performing repairs on tall structures.
Key components of a work positioning system
- Positioning belt or harness – This special belt or harness holds the worker securely in place. Unlike a standard safety harness, it provides additional support to reduce strain.
- Connecting device – A lanyard or rope secures the worker to an anchor point, keeping them stable while they work.
Fall restraint systems:
A fall restraint system prevents workers from reaching areas where they could fall. Unlike fall arrest systems, which stop falls mid-air, fall restraint systems keep workers within a safe zone.
Fall restraint systems are used in situations where workers operate near unprotected edges. These systems are common in:
- Roof maintenance and repair work.
- Working near skylights or open edges.
- Scaffolding and elevated platform tasks.
Key components of a fall restraint system
- Anchor point – A stable attachment point that secures the worker’s harness or belt.
- Body harness or belt – Ensures the worker stays connected to the system.
- Connecting device – A lanyard or rope limits movement, preventing the worker from stepping into a hazardous area.
Choosing the right fall protection system
Selecting the right system depends on the nature of the work and the risks involved. Fall arrest systems are necessary when falls cannot be avoided, while work positioning systems help workers stay stable while performing tasks. Fall restraint systems are best when workers need to be kept away from hazardous areas. When choosing a system, consider factors such as:
- Work environment – Open areas with no barriers require fall arrest or restraint systems.
- Worker mobility – Some tasks require full movement, while others need stable positioning.
- Risk level – High-risk tasks may require additional safety measures.
At Burhani Engineer Ltd, we train our staff to prioritise safety and use the most effective fall protection systems. We offer comprehensive training on the correct usage of fall arrest, work positioning, and fall restraint systems to ensure that every worker is prepared for their tasks. Our training sessions cover proper harness fitting, secure anchoring techniques, and emergency response procedures. We also educate workers on regular equipment inspections to identify wear and tear before an accident happens. We believe that worker safety is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a responsibility. Our engineers in Kenya monitor work sites to ensure proper fall protection measures are in place. They assess risks, inspect equipment, and provide guidance on the safest solutions for each project. To know more about our team and the services we offer, contact us.