Q - What is a fall arrest system?

Full body harness, fall arrest lanyard or inertia device & an anchor point.

Q - What is the scheduled inspection period for harnesses, lanyards, inertia reels, static line systems & anchor points?

Six months for harnesses & lanyards. Twelve months for inertia reels, static line systems and anchor points in accordance with AS/NZS 1891.4.

Q - Can a harness or lanyard system be used again after it has been subjected to a fall?

Any piece of equipment including both personal and permanently installed items, which has been used to arrest a fall or which shows any defect during operator or periodic inspection shall be withdrawn from service immediately and a replacement obtained if necessary. A label indicating the condition or defect should be attached to the equipment and it should be examined by a competent person who will decide whether the equipment is to be destroyed or repaired if necessary and returned to service.

Q - At what height must fall arrest equipment be used?

It is recommended that fall protection equipment be worn above any height where a fall can result in injury. ˆä State regulatory requirements differ from 1.8m to 2.4m and should be consulted.ˆä Site or company requirements may also apply.

Q - How long can a harness be in service before it must be replaced?

10 years from date of manufacture, providing it stays in serviceable condition.

Q - What is a static life line system?

Most static life lines are cable based & designed as a proprietary system for both fall arrest and restraint. They provide a mobile anchor point for protection over large distances.

Q - What type of harness is the minimum requirement for fall arrest?

A Full Body Harness is the minimum for fall arrest. A full body harness must have shoulder straps, leg loops, a chest or waist strap, a rear dorsal "D" ring & must be one complete configuration. Also requires Front Fall Arrest rated attachment point/s.

Q - How much load must an anchor point used for fall arrest be capable of sustaining?

15kN (1500kg), for one person, for two persons an anchor point must be rated to a minimum of 21kN (2100kg). A maximum of two persons should be attached to a single point at any time.

Q - Do Inertia Reels require an energy (shock) absorber?

No they utilize an inertia brake system that minimizes free fall, by locking off immediately.

Q - What type of harness is the minimum requirement for use in an elevated work platform?

A full body harness and shock absorbing lanyard connected to an approved anchor point must be used in an elevated work platform where there is a risk of bucket inversion causing free fall. i.e. cherry picker.