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The Complete Guide to Fall Arrest Lanyards: Finding the Right One

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Safety is critical when working with heights. That's because working off the ground often comes with risks of falling, which can lead to severe injuries or even death. Therefore, several pieces of safety equipment are available in the market for people working with heights. This also means that you must find the right one for your needs to get the most out of it. For instance, fall arrest systems are some of the most common equipment you will find in the markets.

Generally, they feature several other components that make them ideal for use when off the ground. Safety lanyards are among the devices you will find on fall arrest systems. They act as anchor points, connecting the body harness to a lifeline (horizontal or vertical) or an anchor point. Similarly, they come in many options, and this guide will help you choose the best option for you.

Decide Between a Fixed and Adjustable Lanyard

Fall arrest or restraint lanyards can be fixed or adjustable. Typically, your choice will come down to cost and functionality more than personal preference. Both fixed and adjustable lanyards will do the job of preventing injuries to workers operating at height. However, fixed lanyards may be your best bet if you are on a budget as they tend to be priced lower. However, since they are fixed, you need to reposition them frequently when moving across different work locations. In addition, they tend to provide a more limited reach when compared to their adjustable counterparts. Therefore, if the height in your working area changes continuously, like when working on a boom lift, consider using a retractable lanyard.

Think About Your Work Type

Like all fall protection solutions, there's no one-size-fits-all option when it comes to lanyards. And generally, one way to narrow down your options is to consider your work type. For instance, if you only need a single anchor point for your protection, like when working on elevated work platforms or a boom lift, a single fall arrest lanyard will do the trick. That's because such applications or work positions are typically static. On the other hand, some applications require moving around the working area, thereby calling for a complete tie-off. For these cases, you will need a twin-leg or double lanyard.

Consider The Lanyard Length

The length is another critical component to consider when selecting a lanyard. That's because the lanyard should be long enough to allow you to work without getting in the way of your movement. On the other hand, it should be short enough to reduce your free fall distance. Therefore, for the perfect results, it would be best to go for adjustable lanyards.

Keep these tips in mind when looking for height safety products near you.


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