What is Working at Height in Restraint
Restraint Guidance by LeadingEdgeSafety.co.uk
What is restraint?
Operating in restraint permits an operative the access and mobility necessary to reach the leading edge (potential fall hazard) and carry out their tasks whilst preventing them from probably falling.
Kinds of Restraint
There are 3 principal types of restraint equipment found on construction sites:
* Fixed length restraint - A lanyard of a specific length stopping access beyond the fall hazard
* Adjustable restraint - A line with mechanical adjustment allowing the operative to personally adjust their gear - for packages wherever edge exposure isn't a constant distance from the anchorage.
* Running line restraint method - A horizontal lifeline employed in conjunction with personal adjustable restraint - ensuring the anchorage remains directly behind the operative preventing a pendulum fall.
Restraint versus
Fall ArrestThe most fundamental difference between the two techniques of working could be the fall potential. Fall arrest enables the operative to fall and then 'arrests' this fall. Restraint, when utilized correctly, prevents the fall occurring. Working in restraint substantially reduces the risk of falling and therefore all the issues related to fall hazards:
Height clearance implications - with restraint, height clearance is not a concern as there isn't any fall to cope with. The issue with employing fall arrest gear could be the clear height essential to operate, e.g. a fall arrest lanyard clipped at foot level needs up to 6.75m to operate safely. When operating between floor zones this is clearly unsuitable.
If a fall is interrupted by hitting the lower surface in the course of the shock absorbing process, the force still left in the system with probably fatal effects.
Special consideration really should also be given exactly where a lanyard is to be employed in a situation in which it could pass over an edge in the course of a fall, e.g. formwork element, slab edge. You will discover no legal requirements for lanyards to be tested passing over an edge; as they are designed to fall into free space.
As a result the majority of lanyards, particularly flat webbing, usually are not capable of withstanding the increased forces produced by the acute angle as the lanyard passes over the edge.
Rescue provision and method statements
When utilizing fall arrest gear on site, the contractor has to supply a suitable method statement detailing rescue provision. By doing work in fixed restraint, there isn't any fall to deal with, thus rescue provisions aren't an issue. When making use of adjustable and running line restraint systems, provision for rescue needs to be supplied, in the event of operator misuse.
Anchorage
One of the biggest issues in providing fall protection will be the provision of suitable, adequate anchorage in the appropriate location. When using fixed restraint equipment the anchorage requirement can be as little as three times the weight of the user, normally 400kg due to the fact there is no possibility of falling. An example of this would be employing a fixed restraint in the basket of a scissor lift.
If there is just a 1% chance of a fall, then a fall arrest anchorage must be provided. Fall arrest anchorage points could be identified by a competent person. When employing an adjustable restraint and a horizontal lifeline system the provision of appropriate fall protection temporary or permanent anchorage point is necessary.
User comfort
Restraint greatly reduces the load (pull) applied to the operatives body compared to making use of an inertia reel - fall arrest block
Work site projects and trades require workers to be trained to achieve a high standard of competence to be able to function safely at height. In depth knowledge of the gear and safety concerns can not only improve an operator's confidence and efficiency but will also save lives and prevent serious injuries.
Leading Edge height safety training courses are specifically developed for anybody whose job demands them to operate at height and involves making use of the needed safety equipment needed to do this.
For more information visit http://www.leadingedgesafety.co.uk
What is Working at Height in Restraint
By: Cory Bennett
Movers - Some Tips for Hiring A Professional Company Professional Brochure Design: Making Your Brochure Inventive and Convincing Looking For A Job? Here Are The Top 10 Jobs In Demand Various Job Opportunities With A Graphic Designer Career Keeping Your Server Working Properly What The Professionals Can Do Quality Diamonds In San Diego Created By Professionals The Economy And Job Creation Some Tips On How To Prepare For Defence Jobs Professional Translation Services People Who Choose The Profession Of A Nurse Share Impressions Professional Method Of Tooth Whitening Should You Buy A Professional Building Plan Or Design Your Own Shed Plan?