Work methods and EN-standards

Five Work-at-Height Techniques

When working at height, it is possible to choose between one or more of the following techniques, depending on the risks, the features of the structure, and on the type of the activity to carry out. Figures represent non-exhaustive examples of possible types of systems.

1. Restraint
   Technique used to prevent a worker from entering a fall risk area by means of the limitation of the length of the connection between the anchor point and the user’s harness.

   

2. Positioning
   Technique used to position a worker securely in a fall risk area without creating a risk of falling. Usually the connection is adjustable in length. It is essential to give special consideration to the need of an additional fall-arrest system as a backup connection.

   

   

    
3. Fall Arrest
   Technique used to catch and reduce the force of a fall from heights. The system must include a full body harness and a connection which features an energyabsorption function.

   

   

   

    
4. Rope access
   Fall protection system that enables the user to get to and from the workplace in tension or suspension in such a way that a free fall is preventable or arrestable. Rope access systems always include a working line for movement by means of ascenders and descenders, combined with a safety line equipped with a fall-arrest device that can intervene in case of failure of the working line.

   

    
5. Rescue
   A personal fall protection system by which a person can rescue themselves or others and which prevents both rescuer and victim from a free fall. It allows the evacuation from the working place to a safe place by descent and/ or ascent. A rescue system can include only one line: a secondary safety line is mandatory during rescue training. A rescue system and the procedure to carry it out safely must always be foreseen for all work-at-height activities.

   

   

    

EN-standards

Conformity marking to European directive 2016/425 The European Commission has published a number of standards for controlling the design and use of fall arrest and rescue equipment. These are available at www.sis.se.

Go back