Although guidelines state that collective systems must be given priority over personal protection systems wherever possible, there are instances where this is not possible due to design restraints or planning restrictions.
In these cases there are a variety of personal protection systems available. When specifying lifeline systems, however, fall restraint should always be given priority over fall arrest systems. In other words it is better to stop someone falling from the roof than enabling the operative to physically fall so that the fall is arrested, and they have to be rescued.
There are a number of options available for personal protection systems. These can be separated into two different groups, the first being a range of anchors, cable systems, rail systems and counterweight anchors.
The anchors can be used on thin metal roof sheets and other roofing substrates as structural anchors and, by using force management technology they are able to limit the forces in the system that are?generated in the event of a fall to less than 10kN (2200lbs) through a built in energy absorber. The reaction of the anchor reorientates the load to a more beneficial plane for the roof structure and distributes load through the fixings to ensure the integrity of the roof system is maintained, even in a multi-user scenario.
Individual anchors are fitted to provide individual fall restraint. When used in conjunction with a cable system, however, which is attached to each anchor point, multiple workers can then clip onto the cable. The cable can span up to 12m (40ft) between anchors, allowing the operative freedom to move along large sections of the roof and provide them with continuous hands free access.
For those looking for total freedom to move across the roof and to even navigate corners and changes of direction in the building or structure, the rail system is the one to choose.
Manufactured from extruded aluminium, it is ideal for modern building projects, for roof access in particular, and as an anchor point for suspended work positioning for external façade access, inspection and maintenance.
The roof mounted rail meets the requirements of both abseil and fall protection standards and can be fixed to the roof system with minor penetrations, or by using clamps. It provides excellent functionality through its free flowing attachment carriage and, with no brackets to pass over, the user enjoys a truly hands free experience.
Where roofs are pitched at more than 15 degrees, it provides a sound anchorage that will not flex when a worker applies their body weight to it. This provides a good sense of security and allows them to work with confidence. In the event of a fall the product does not deflect and distributes very low loads to the roof structure.
In the event that roof penetrations are not desirable on larger roof areas, counterweight anchor systems can be used as they offer both fall arrest and work restraint capabilities via a series of weights joined to a single plate and anchorage point.
The anchors are designed to be placed on an approved roofing surface and, in the event of a fall, use their counterweight to arrest a worker.
The anchors can be used by a single worker and as part of a more comprehensive safety system.
