Fall Restraint vs Fall Arrest

Q: What is the difference between Fall Restraint & Fall Arrest?

A: Fall restraint systems or often referred to as "travel restriction systems" are designed to eliminate the possibility of a worker to fall. Lanyards and or anchor points must be shortened so that users can not go beyond the point where fall hazards exist. Think of your dog on their leash, you are limited to where you can travel, thusly not allowing you to be exposed to a fall. The benefits of this system are clear because if the possibility of a fall is eliminated, so is the potential for serious injury and or death.

Fall arrest systems are designed to stop the user from hitting the level below and minimize injury, when the preferred method of fall restraint is not a viable option. Fall arrest systems also work to minimize the amount of force applied to the user in the event of said fall.