The Work at Height Regulations 2005 implemented by the UK government make all employers responsible for ensuring the safety of all workers dealing with height. These regulations help protect workers by providing guidelines and demanding the use of fall arrest gears that keep workers safe in the event of a fall. One major equipment used is a fall arrest block, which acts as a lifeline for workers dealing with roofs, ladders, and scaffolds.
But what exactly is it, and how does it protect workers?
What Are Fall Arrest Blocks?
A fall arrest block is a type of personal fall protection equipment that protects users working at height or in areas where there’s a fall hazard. It is also known as a fall arrester or a retractable/self-retractable lanyard as it extends and retracts as the worker moves. When it detects a fall, it immediately locks the extension to ensure the worker doesn’t fall any further.
Fall arrest systems are a legal requirement for employers to protect their employees from falling, and they are readily available from suppliers such as RS.
How Do Fall Arrest Blocks Work?
Fall arrest blocks work using a simple yet effective mechanism that combines movement and fall detection.
- Retractable Line: The equipment has a line that extends and retracts as the worker moves. This line is attached to both the worker and an anchor point. While it prevents falling, it also allows the worker to move freely.
- Speed-Sensing Brake System: The mechanism needs to know when a fall happens, and it does this by sensing the speed of movement. This is similar to how the seatbelt of a car works. If the movement is normal, there are no restrictions. If it’s sudden, the belt locks.
- Energy Absorption: Being stopped suddenly during a fall can exert a lot of pressure on the body, so a fall arrest block usually has a system for absorbing some of this energy. In most cases, a spring is used to make the stop gradual.
The systems usually come in different materials, such as aluminium, nylon, plastic, polyurethane, polyamide, and steel.
How to Use Fall Arrest Blocks Safely
Considering that they act as a lifeline to protect against possible injuries and fatalities, it’s important to ensure that you use fall arrest blocks in the right manner.
Inspect the Equipment
It’s advisable to always examine the fall arrest block before each use to ensure it’s safe. When doing so, look for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cables and corrosion. You can also test the retractor and locking mechanism by pulling them.
Ensure Proper Training
You should ensure that your workers know everything they need to know about the fall arrest system. This starts with how to connect it to the body and anchor points properly. They should also understand how they need to inspect it before use and what to do in the event of a fall. You can also have them test the equipment in a safe place to ensure that they understand everything. This will help protect you from injury liabilities.
Ensure Proper Storage & Maintenance
Storing and maintaining the fall arrest block and other fall protection equipment properly is important as this will help ensure that they are safe for use and prolong their lifespan. The equipment needs to be stored in a clean and dry environment as some of the material can rust or weaken when exposed to various substances. You should also clean the fall arrest block when it’s exposed to things such as dirt, dust, or moisture. Avoid harsh chemicals when doing this as they can corrode the equipment.
