What Happens When a Fall Occurs?
Working at height requires more than just wearing a safety harness. A complete fall protection system includes an anchorage, connector, energy absorber, and full-body harness, all working together to protect the worker during a fall.
Fall → Energy Absorber → Lanyard → Harness → Anchorage → Fall Arrest
How the System Works
- Fall: The worker slips or loses balance and begins to fall.
- Energy Absorber: Reduces impact forces generated during the fall.
- Lanyard/Connector: Connects the harness to the anchorage point.
- Full-Body Harness: Distributes fall-arrest forces across the body.
- Anchorage: Provides a secure structural attachment point.
- Fall Arrest: The system safely stops the fall before a lower-level impact occurs.
Why the Complete System Matters
A harness alone cannot provide complete protection. Every component must be compatible, properly connected, inspected, and suitable for the application. Fall protection should always be treated as a complete safety system.
Common Mistakes
- Using an unsuitable anchorage
- Incorrect harness fitting
- Failing to inspect equipment
- Using damaged components
- Allowing excessive free-fall distance
- Ignoring required fall clearance
- Working without a rescue plan
Before Working at Height
- Check the equipment.
- Ensure the harness fits correctly.
- Verify connector compatibility.
- Confirm the anchorage is suitable.
- Inspect all components before use.
- Ensure adequate fall clearance.
- Have a rescue plan in place.
Fall protection is a system, not a single product. The best protection comes from equipment that is correctly selected, properly installed, regularly inspected, and used as intended.
Hottex Engineers
Engineering Safety. Delivering Protection.
