The Importance of Pairing a Horizontal Lifeline with the Proper PPE

For example, when rooftop work is being performed, you must ensure that you protect workers from skylights and other openings in the roof, the leading edge, as well as any other unique fall hazards that may be present. When it comes to rooftop safety equipment, a horizontal lifeline paired with the right body harness and lanyard is an economical and effective fall protection solution. Here we’ll discuss how pairing a horizontal lifeline system with the proper PPE will set your workers and business up for success.

What is a Horizontal Lifeline System?

This type of rooftop safety equipment possesses both fall restraint and fall arrest potential. The concept is simple. A strong cable is attached to two or more anchor points on the roof that connects to a safety harness and lanyard system. Unlike guardrails, which are passive fall protection, lifeline systems are considered active fall protection since the user must take action to use the system.

Referred to as the ABCDs of fall protection, there are four components that make up a lifeline system:

• Anchorage: The horizontal lifeline requires a secure point of attachment on the roof or other structure. Regulations state that anchorage must be capable of supporting the full weight of all intended loads without failing. The lifeline must also be free of defects or damage that could cause it to fail.

• Body Support: A well-fitted full-body harness is, perhaps, one of the most important components of this system. When worn properly it will distribute fall forces evenly throughout the body if a worker begins to fall or strain against it.

• Connector: A self-retracting lifeline or a shock-absorbing lanyard is the third piece of the lifeline system. Placed between the harness and anchorage, they provide control for workers as they ascend and descend as well as stability while performing tasks.

• Descent: In case of medical issues, injury, or other emergencies after a fall occurs, time is of the essence. Descent devices are a fast, efficient, and safe way to raise or lower fallen workers to safety or to bring rescue workers to the victim for treatment or retrieval.

Why You Must Choose the Right PPE for Your Lifeline System

When choosing rooftop fall protection equipment, you must look at every aspect of the roof to determine what is most appropriate. If you're going to use a lifeline system in conjunction with passive fall protection, then you must carefully pair the system with the right PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for your workers. Otherwise, a worker can become entangled, slip out of the body harness, or encounter other issues resulting in injuries. To avoid these risks:

• Only use OSHA or CCOHS-compliant personal fall protection equipment. Not only will this help you avoid injuries in the workplace, but it will also keep you from incurring fines and penalties for non-compliance with safety regulations.

• Choose a body harness that fits the worker properly. Every worker has a unique body shape, and you must choose the appropriate body harness for the individual. Keep in mind that the harness must fit comfortably, and it cannot bind, twist, or shift when worn.

• Train workers on how to put on, adjust, wear, and use a body harness and lanyard properly. It's not enough to go over this vital step once, constant reminders and ongoing training are necessary to ensure workers follow through each time they use the PPE.

• Teach employees to be aware of when personal protective equipment is necessary. Recognizing a hazard is the first step toward avoiding it. Train workers to be cognizant of their surroundings and to act accordingly when a fall hazard is present.

• Understand the limitations of the PPE issued to workers. Make sure that your PPE is rated appropriately to handle the intended load. Both the weight of workers as well as any tools, equipment, or supplies they’re carrying must be considered.

• Inspect and maintain protective equipment properly to ensure it functions properly. Before every use, PPE should be thoroughly inspected for any damage or flaws that could compromise the safety of the wearer. After use, PPE should be properly stored to maintain its strength and durability.

Is a Lifeline System a Good Idea for My Rooftop?

It's up to you to decide what fall protection system is right for your building. The truth is a rooftop lifeline system is one of the most versatile types of rooftop safety equipment. Regardless of the type of roof on your facility, a rooftop lifeline system can provide reliable, compliant fall protection for workers on a temporary or permanent basis.

A few of the applications appropriate for a horizontal lifeline include:

• Expansive, flat industrial rooftops where guardrails are cost-prohibitive or are otherwise not feasible.

• When the rooftop is sloped or has architectural elements, equipment, or roof openings that increase fall risks.

• When temporary work such as roof and rooftop mechanical repairs and maintenance is performed.

• If workers must perform tasks at or very near the leading edge.

• In cases where more than two workers must be on the rooftop.

Protect Your Employees with World-Class Rooftop Fall Protection Equipment 

There are many potential risks that industrial facility employees face on a daily basis, the most common of which is injury due to a fall. Under federal law, you are obligated to ensure your workers are protected from falls when working on the rooftop or anytime they're exposed to an unprotected edge more than 4' above a previous level. If your facility meets any of the criteria listed above, a lifeline system paired with a body harness and lanyard may be the ideal solution for your workers. 

Still not sure if a lifeline system is right for you? Tractel® is a leading manufacturer of rooftop safety equipment for industrial and commercial applications. Contact us for a consultation with one of our qualified safety experts to discuss your specific needs and expectations. We'll help you find the right fall protection equipment for your building so you can rest assured your workers are safe and that you're OSHA or CCOHS -compliant.

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