Single Fall Arrest Lanyards: Essential Equipment for Worker Safety

When working at height, safety becomes a top priority. A fall can result in serious injuries or even fatalities, which is why proper fall protection equipment is critical. Among the essential components of a fall protection system, single fall arrest lanyards play a significant role. These lanyards are designed to prevent falls from causing harm by absorbing shock and limiting the distance of a fall. However, choosing the correct lanyard is not always straightforward. There are various types of fall protection lanyards available, each with its unique features and uses.

This comprehensive guide will dive into the importance of single fall arrest lanyards, the factors to consider when choosing the right lanyard, and how these safety tools can protect workers across different industries. By understanding these factors and knowing the options available, employers and workers can ensure maximum safety when working at heights.

What Are Single Fall Arrest Lanyards?

A single fall arrest lanyard is a key piece of fall protection equipment that connects a worker to an anchor point. These lanyards are designed to arrest (or stop) a fall, reducing the risk of injury by absorbing the forces generated during a fall. A single fall arrest lanyard typically consists of a length of rope, webbing, or wire, along with connectors, such as carabiners or hooks, that attach the worker’s harness to the anchor point.

These lanyards are specifically designed for situations where there is a risk of falling from a height, such as on construction sites, scaffolding, or when working at height in the maintenance of tall structures like buildings and bridges.

Types of Fall Arrest Lanyards

While there are several different types of fall arrest lanyards, they can be broadly categorized into three groups: shock-absorbing lanyards, self-retracting lanyards (SRLs), and positioning lanyards. Each type of lanyard has a specific application, and understanding these differences is vital when selecting the right equipment for a given situation.

Shock-Absorbing Lanyards
Shock-absorbing lanyards are the most commonly used fall arrest lanyards in the industry. These lanyards are typically made of durable webbing and come in various lengths. The key feature of a shock-absorbing lanyard is the built-in shock absorber, which helps to reduce the impact forces on the body in the event of a fall. This shock absorber is usually in the form of a tearable element, such as rip-stitching, which deploys during a fall, extending the length of the lanyard and dissipating the fall energy.
For example, a shock-absorbing lanyard might start at 6 feet but could extend to a total length of 9.5 feet if the shock absorber is deployed. This extension helps to slow the fall and prevent the worker from hitting the ground with a fatal impact. The shock-absorbing lanyard is widely used in various applications, from construction sites to maintenance work on tall structures.
However, a few key considerations come into play when choosing a shock-absorbing lanyard:
- Fall Distance: The lanyard needs to be long enough to allow for the maximum fall distance, including the shock absorption. For example, if your fall clearance is 18.5 feet, you would need a lanyard that can extend to account for the shock absorber’s length.
- Clearance Requirements: A minimum clearance of 18.5 feet is required for shock-absorbing lanyards to ensure they deploy correctly. Without this clearance, there may be a risk of hitting the ground or nearby obstacles before the shock absorber can fully deploy.
Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRLs)
Self-retracting lanyards (SRLs) are designed to be a more compact and efficient solution for fall arrest. Unlike traditional shock-absorbing lanyards, SRLs automatically retract when there is slack in the line, ensuring that there is no loose rope or webbing hanging. When a fall occurs, the SRL engages immediately and stops the worker’s descent within a few inches, minimizing the distance fallen.
The self-retracting lanyard offers several advantages:
- Reduced Fall Distance: SRLs engage much faster than shock-absorbing lanyards, which can result in a significantly shorter fall distance (as little as 24 inches).
- Compact and Lightweight: SRLs are typically smaller and more lightweight, making them easier to handle and more convenient for workers who need mobility while working.
- No Slack: Since SRLs retract automatically, there is no slack in the line. This ensures that the fall is arrested almost immediately, minimizing the fall distance and reducing the impact force on the body.
  However, there are also limitations to SRLs:
- Weight Limitations: Most SRLs are rated for workers up to a certain weight limit, usually 310 lbs (140 kg), including tools and equipment. For heavier workers or situations that require additional gear, SRLs may not be suitable.
- Cost: SRLs tend to be more expensive than shock-absorbing lanyards due to their advanced technology and compact design.
Positioning Lanyards
Positioning lanyards are typically used in situations where a worker needs to remain in a fixed position but does not require fall arrest protection. These lanyards are shorter in length, fixed, and designed to support the worker’s position rather than stop a fall. They are commonly used when workers are conducting tasks like rebar assembly or working on steel structures, where they need to stay in place and work without worrying about sudden movements.
Positioning lanyards are not designed to arrest a fall and should never be used as fall protection unless the worker is already tied off to a separate fall arrest system. These lanyards should only be used when the worker’s fall potential is low, and the anchor point is above the worker’s head to prevent a fall from occurring.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Single Fall Arrest Lanyards

When selecting a single fall arrest lanyard, there are several key factors to consider. Each worksite presents unique challenges, so it’s essential to choose the right equipment for the specific task at hand. Here are the most important factors to keep in mind:

Fall Clearance
One of the most critical aspects of selecting a fall arrest lanyard is ensuring that you have enough fall clearance. Fall clearance refers to the total distance between the worker’s position and the ground or any obstruction. This includes the length of the lanyard, the shock absorber’s extension, and the distance the worker will fall before the lanyard engages.
For example, shock-absorbing lanyards require a minimum of 18.5 feet of clearance, while SRLs require less clearance but still need to be properly calculated to ensure the worker will not hit the ground.
Work Environment
The type of work environment will play a significant role in the choice of lanyard. For instance:
- Hot Work: If workers are engaged in welding, torch cutting, or other hot work, you may need to choose a lanyard made from heat-resistant materials like Kevlar to avoid it burning through during operations.
- Steel Erection: When working at height on steel structures, single fall arrest lanyards made from durable, abrasion-resistant materials like webbing or wire rope are recommended.
- Confined Spaces: For workers operating in confined spaces, a self-retracting lanyard (SRL) may be a better option due to its compact design and ease of use in tight spaces.
Worker Size and Weight
The worker’s size and weight should also be considered when choosing a fall arrest lanyard. Heavier workers may require a lanyard that can handle higher forces or a longer lanyard to accommodate a greater fall distance. Many fall arrest lanyards are rated for workers up to 310 lbs (140 kg), but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications for the maximum weight limit.
Anchor Points and Mobility
Consider the type of anchor points available on the job site. Some anchor points may be located at ground level, requiring an extended lanyard to account for the fall distance. In other cases, anchor points above the worker’s head may allow for a shorter lanyard with less fall clearance required.
If workers need to move frequently between anchor points, a double-legged lanyard may be necessary to ensure they can transition safely without exposing themselves to a fall during the changeover.

Single Fall Arrest Lanyards: Maintenance and Inspections

Proper maintenance and regular inspections are essential for ensuring that single fall arrest lanyards remain functional and safe. Before each use, workers should conduct thorough checks of the lanyard, connectors, and any other components to ensure there are no signs of wear, damage, or malfunction.

Key maintenance practices include:

Inspecting webbing for fraying, cuts, or burns
Checking connectors for cracks, rust, or corrosion
Testing the shock absorber to ensure it functions properly
Ensuring that the lanyard retracts smoothly without any slack
Replacing damaged or worn-out lanyards immediately

Conclusion

Selecting the right single fall arrest lanyard is crucial for ensuring the safety of workers at height. Whether using a shock-absorbing lanyard, self-retracting lanyard, or positioning lanyard, it’s important to carefully assess the fall distance, work environment, and worker needs before making a choice. A business development consultant can help you increase your marketing and sales efforts. Regular inspection and maintenance are also vital for keeping the equipment in optimal condition.

To explore a wide range of single fall arrest lanyards and other height safety solutions, visit Absafe Shop. With high-quality products designed to meet rigorous safety standards, Absafe ensures that your workers are protected on the job.