Anchor Points: Fall Arrest vs. Fall Restraint

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! This week, we're diving into the first piece of the fall protection puzzle: the Anchor Point. Without a correct anchor, the entire system—harness, lanyard, and all—is useless.

Today, we're clarifying the difference between the two primary functions of an anchor, as they have vastly different strength requirements.

The Two Functions of an Anchor

An anchor point is the secure connection to which your lifeline or lanyard is attached. Its required strength depends on its intended purpose:

1. Fall Arrest (Stopping a Fall)

A Fall Arrest system is designed to stop a worker after a fall has occurred. This is a high-impact, life-or-death function. The strength requirement for the anchor is extreme because it must absorb the sudden, tremendous force generated when a falling body is brought to an abrupt stop.

• Strength Requirement: The anchor point must be capable of supporting a minimum of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) of force per worker attached.

• The Alternative: Alternatively, if supervised by a Qualified Person (an engineer), the anchor can be designed to withstand a 2:1 safety factor based on the maximum arresting force (MAF) of the lanyard, but 5,000 lbs. is the industry standard you should memorize.

• Example: A worker on a roof using a self-retracting lifeline (SRL) attached to a mobile anchor.

2. Fall Restraint (Preventing a Fall)

A Fall Restraint system is designed to prevent a worker from reaching a fall hazard in the first place. This is a proactive function. The lanyard is set so short that the worker cannot physically get close enough to the edge to fall.

• Strength Requirement: The anchor point is generally required to support a minimum of 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN) of force, as it should never be subjected to a free fall impact.

• The Lanyard is Key: The critical part of a restraint system is ensuring the lanyard, when attached, limits travel to no closer than 6 feet from the edge.

• Example: A worker is tethered with a 6’ SRL to an anchor point in the middle of a flat roof, restricting their movement near the edge.

Your Anchor Checklist

Before you tie off, confirm the anchor is:

• Strong Enough: Is it rated for at least 5,000 lbs. Fall Arrest or 3,000 lbs. Fall Restraint?

• Accessible: Can you safely reach and connect to it?

• Dedicated: Is it only being used for fall protection? (Never tie off to plumbing, conduit, or railings unless specifically engineered and certified.)

Tomorrow, we'll clarify the difference between the two people responsible for your anchor's safety: the Competent Person and the Qualified Person.

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-The Safety Man