Your Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) - The ABC’s of Protection

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! Yesterday, we introduced general fall hazards. Today, we're focusing on your Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) – your personal safety net designed to stop a fall.

Understanding your PFAS, how to inspect it, and how to wear it correctly is absolutely critical for your safety at height.

The ABC’s of a PFAS: Your Life-Saving Components

Every effective PFAS has three main parts:

• A - Anchorage: The secure, strong point you connect to.

• B - Body Harness: The full-body harness you wear, designed to distribute fall forces safely.

• C - Connecting Device: The lanyard or Self-Retracting Lifeline (SRL) that links your harness to the anchorage.

Pre-Use Inspection: Your Daily Life Check

Before every single use, you must thoroughly inspect all components of your PFAS. Look for:

• Harnesses & Lanyards: Cuts, fraying, burns, broken stitches, or any distortion.

• Hardware (D-rings, Buckles, Snaphooks): Cracks, bends, rust, or improper function. Ensure snaphook gates close completely and lock.

• Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs): Damage to the casing or lifeline; confirm it retracts smoothly and locks quickly when pulled sharply.

If you find any damage or defect, immediately tag the PFAS "DO NOT USE" and remove it from service.

Proper Harness Fit: Snug, Not Loose!

An ill-fitting harness is dangerous. After inspection, ensure it fits correctly:

• Snug Fit: All straps should be snug, but not overly tight.

• Leg Straps: Allow a flat hand to slide underneath.

• D-Ring: The dorsal (back) D-ring should be positioned between your shoulder blades.

Your Responsibility: Your employer provides the PFAS and training. You are responsible for inspecting it daily, wearing it correctly, and maintaining it.

Understanding and diligently applying these "ABC’s" is your first critical step in active fall protection. Tomorrow, we'll dive deeper into the strength and placement of your anchor points and connecting devices.

Don't forget to sign your friends up for Full Brim Safety for your daily dose of construction safety tips!

-The Safety Man