Fall Arrest Systems: Ensuring Safety at Heights with Norsemen Safety

Working at heights presents significant risks, making fall protection systems essential across industries such as construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and telecommunications. A fall arrest system is a vital safety mechanism designed to stop a fall in progress and minimize the risk of severe injury or fatality.

As a MSA certified distributor, Norsemen Safety provides top-quality fall arrest equipment that meets international safety standards and ensures workplace compliance.

What is a Fall Arrest System?

A fall arrest system is a safety mechanism designed to catch a worker if they fall from a height. Unlike fall restraint systems, which prevent access to fall hazards, fall arrest systems allow movement within high-risk zones while ensuring protection in case of an accidental fall.

Key Components of a Fall Arrest System

A proper fall arrest system includes several critical components:

• Full-Body Harness – Distributes the force of impact across the strongest parts of the body, reducing injury risk.
• Lanyards and Lifelines – Connect the harness to an anchor point, ensuring workers remain tethered at all times.
• Anchorage Points – Secure attachment locations designed to hold the impact load during a fall.
• Deceleration Devices – Reduce the impact force to prevent injuries by slowing down the fall.
• Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs) – A retractable lanyard that allows movement while ensuring instant fall arrest if a fall occurs.

Types of Fall Protection Systems

1. Fall Restraint Systems

• Prevent workers from reaching the fall hazard area.
• Ideal for rooftops, scaffolding, and elevated work platforms.

2. Fall Arrest Systems

• Allow workers to move freely but stop a fall in progress.
• Common in high-risk industries like construction, oil and gas, and telecommunications.

3. Suspension Systems

• Used in activities such as window cleaning and bridge maintenance.
• Workers are suspended and supported while performing tasks at height.

4. Controlled Descent Systems

• Enable safe lowering of workers in case of emergencies.
• Common in rescue operations and confined space entry.

Regulatory Compliance for Fall Arrest Systems

Fall arrest systems must comply with strict safety regulations set by global and national organizations to ensure worker protection.

Some key regulations include:

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) – U.S. regulations for fall protection in general industry and construction.
• ANSI (American National Standards Institute) – Sets industry standards for fall arrest equipment quality and performance.
• CCOHS (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety) – Canadian workplace safety requirements.
• EN Standards (European Norms) – Governs fall protection in the European Union.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in heavy fines, legal liabilities, and increased workplace accidents.

Why Choose Norsemen Safety for Fall Arrest Equipment?

As a certified distributor of high-quality fall protection solutions, Norsemen Safety is committed to workplace safety by providing top-tier fall arrest systems that comply with international safety standards.

1. Certified and Tested Equipment

Norsemen Safety offers fall arrest harnesses, lanyards, lifelines, and anchor systems that meet OSHA, ANSI, and EN safety standards.

2. Expert Consultation and Support

The company provides specialized training, safety consultations, and risk assessments to help businesses implement effective fall protection strategies.

3. Wide Range of Products

From basic harnesses to advanced self-retracting lifelines (SRLs), Norsemen Safety supplies everything needed for complete fall protection.

4. Trusted by Industry Leaders

Construction companies, energy providers, and industrial manufacturers trust Norsemen Safety to deliver reliable fall arrest solutions.

5. Compliance Assistance

Norsemen Safety helps businesses navigate regulatory requirements and ensures they meet industry safety standards.

Industries That Rely on Fall Arrest Systems

Fall arrest systems are essential in various high-risk industries, including:

1. Construction

• Workers frequently operate at elevated locations such as scaffolding, steel beams, and rooftops.
• OSHA requires fall protection for workers operating at heights of 6 feet or more.

2. Oil & Gas Industry

• Rig workers and technicians climb tall structures and require fall arrest solutions for safety.
• Specialized harnesses and self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) are commonly used.

3. Telecommunications & Utility Services

• Tower climbers and electrical workers need full fall protection systems when working on poles and transmission towers.

4. Manufacturing & Warehousing

• Elevated walkways, conveyor systems, and storage racks pose fall risks for employees.

5. Wind Energy & Renewable Sector

• Wind turbine technicians work at extreme heights and require full fall arrest protection.

How to Choose the Right Fall Arrest Equipment

Selecting the right fall arrest system depends on several factors, including:

✅ Work Environment – Indoors or outdoors, confined spaces, extreme temperatures.
✅ Fall Distance – Calculating required clearance to prevent ground impact.
✅ Weight Capacity – Ensuring equipment supports worker weight plus tools.
✅ Regulatory Compliance – Verifying that equipment meets OSHA, ANSI, or EN standards.

Pro Tip: Always conduct a pre-use inspection to ensure all fall arrest gear is in good condition.

Final Thoughts: Prioritize Safety with Norsemen Safety

Investing in a reliable fall arrest system is not just a legal requirement but a lifesaving necessity. Norsemen Safety, as a certified distributor, provides high-quality fall protection solutions that meet global safety standards.

🔹 Looking for certified fall arrest equipment?
Contact Norsemen Safety today to ensure your workforce remains protected while working at heights.