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GUIDE TO HEIGHT SAFETY

EN STANDARDS FOR FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Working at height is one of the most hazardous activities in the workplace. The correct use of fall protection equipment is essential to reduce the risk of injury from falls. To ensure equipment is safe and fit for purpose, it must comply with European (EN) standards.

This guide outlines the main equipment types, relevant standards, and factors to consider when selecting height safety gear.

1 — Identify the Task, the Hazard and the Risk of Injury

  • Task — What type of work is being done? Short duration, repetitive, or extended time at height?
  • Hazard — What are the risks (fall from ladders, scaffolding, rooftops, MEWPs, confined spaces)?
  • Risk — How severe is the potential fall, and what is the likelihood of occurrence?

2 — Main Categories of Fall Protection

There are three primary methods of managing risk at height:

  • Fall Arrest — Allows a fall to occur but stops it safely. Requires a full body harness, energy-absorbing lanyard or SRL, and anchor point.
  • Work Restraint — Prevents the user from reaching a fall hazard by restricting movement.
  • Work Positioning — Allows hands-free working while being supported (e.g., on towers, masts).

3 — Relevant EN Standards for Height Safety

The following standards apply to different components of fall protection systems:

Equipment Standard Description
Full Body Harness EN 361 Basic requirement for fall arrest harnesses.
Work Positioning Belt & Lanyard EN 358 For holding a worker in position and preventing falls.
Energy Absorbing Lanyards EN 355 Reduces impact force in the event of a fall.
Work Positioning Systems (Ropes) EN 353-2 Guided type fall arresters including flexible anchors.
Retractable Fall Arresters EN 360 Self-retracting lifelines (SRLs).
Anchorage Devices prEN 795 Requirements for anchor points (Class A–E types).
Connectors (Karabiners) EN 362 Connectors for attaching equipment together.

4 — Selecting the Right System

When choosing height safety equipment, consider:

  • Fall distance (is there enough clearance below?)
  • Type of work (short duration vs. extended work at height).
  • Anchor points (are they certified and in the right location?).
  • Comfort and ergonomics (harness fit, ease of movement).
  • Environment (corrosive, outdoor, hot/cold conditions).

5 — Harness & Lanyard Selection Guide

Work Scenario Recommended Equipment Notes
Short duration, low-risk access Basic EN 361 harness + EN 355 lanyard Suitable where fall clearance is available.
Extended working at height Comfort harness (EN 361/EN 358) + work positioning lanyard Distributes load, allows hands-free work.
Confined space or vertical ladders Harness with front attachment + EN 353-2 fall arrester Front connection improves vertical mobility.
Industrial roofing, telecoms, or wind energy EN 361 harness with dorsal attachment + SRL (EN 360) Reduces free fall distance, suitable for frequent use.

6 — Inspection & Maintenance

Height safety equipment must be inspected before each use and formally examined by a competent person at least every 12 months (or more frequently if required by manufacturer instructions).

  • Check for wear, cuts, fraying, UV damage, and chemical exposure.
  • Ensure all labels and standards markings are legible.
  • Retire equipment if it has been involved in a fall arrest.
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