Fall protection systems for work at height

Different types of vertical access systems (compliant with EN 353) and horizontal protection systems (compliant with EN 795) differ in their principle use. Key criteria to consider are the duration and the number of workers involved in the activity (refer to the table).

Suitable safety measures must be implemented if a risk of a fall from height has been identified (e.g. during cleaning and maintenance work on roofs). The work activity and type of structure may influence the selection of collective or individual protection and the selection of temporary or permanent solutions. Other aspects like safety (e.g. restrictions on access) and costs (e.g. one-time or recurring) may have an influence.

Collective and permanent safety measures (e.g. guard rails) are often the simplest and the safest solutions for work. However, they are not possible many times due to structural and cost reasons since the cost to utility ratio is not profitable.

The advantages of temporary solutions are that they are portable and inexpensive. However, recurring costs arise due to rental and erection of the equipment. Furthermore, there is a higher risk of accidents occurring during erection or due to incorrect erection.

The advantages of permanent, individual safety systems for protection against falls from height, e.g. Soll height access systems, is that they are always available and immediately provide a high degree of protection to trained workers.

Horizontal anchorage devices: Where is the difference?