What Type of Fall Protection Do I Need? A Quick Guide for Workers at Height
Falls remain the leading cause of death in construction and industrial work, and OSHA violations related to fall protection consistently top the charts. The right fall protection gear isn’t just a box to check—it’s your life on the line.
At Novarlo, we help workers and safety managers find fall protection systems that match the job, the height, and the hazard. Whether you’re working on a roof, in a bucket truck, or on scaffolding, here’s what you need to know.
The 3 Core Types of Fall Protection
1. Fall Arrest Systems
Fall arrest systems are designed to stop a worker who is already falling, preventing them from hitting the ground. These systems require a full-body harness (Class III), a shock-absorbing lanyard or self-retracting lifeline (SRL), and an anchorage point rated to 5,000 lbs. They're ideal for tasks like roofing, tower climbing, aerial lifts, and wind energy work. You can shop fall arrest harnesses directly on Novarlo to ensure your team is equipped with compliant, high-quality gear.
2. Fall Restraint Systems
Fall restraint systems are designed to prevent a fall from occurring by limiting how close a worker can get to an edge or drop-off. These setups typically include a body harness or belt, a lanyard or tether, and an anchorage point positioned to restrict movement. They’re especially effective for tasks on flat roofs, solar installations, and HVAC maintenance. To find the right equipment for your job, you can shop fall restraint gear at Novarlo for compliant and reliable options.
3. Positioning Systems
Work positioning systems are used to hold a worker securely in place, allowing them to use both hands while working at height. These systems include a positioning body belt with D-rings, short lanyards attached to the side D-rings, and an anchorage or tie-off to a stable structure. Commonly used by ironworkers, pole climbers, and those working on vertical rebar, these systems offer stability and efficiency. You can shop work positioning gear at Novarlo to ensure your team has dependable gear for the job.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Fall Protection
|
Factor |
Why It Matters |
Gear Needed |
|
Fall Distance |
Ensure you have clearance to stop safely |
Use SRLs or short lanyards if space is tight |
|
Anchor Points |
Must be rated and properly located |
Permanent or temporary anchors |
|
Job Type |
Dynamic work (roofing) vs. static (utility pole) |
Arrest vs. restraint systems |
|
Mobility Needs |
Do you need full range of motion? |
Consider stretchable harnesses & retractables |
|
Environment |
Wet, electrical, confined, or sharp-edge areas? |
Look for dielectric or edge-rated gear |
Top Fall Protection Gear
Guardian Self-Retracting Lifelines
Ideal for short-clearance worksites, Guardian self-retracting lifelines activate quickly to reduce fall distance and improve safety in tight spaces. You can browse Guardian SRLs on Novarlo for a variety of reliable options.
3M DBI-SALA ExoFit Harnesses
Known for their ergonomic design, 3M DBI-SALA ExoFit harnesses feature comfort padding, quick-connect buckles, and built-in trauma straps for all-day wear. Shop ExoFit harnesses on Novarlo to keep your crew both comfortable and compliant.
Honeywell Miller Positioning Belts
Perfect for linemen and tower workers who require stable, hands-free positioning, Honeywell Miller positioning belts provide dependable support in high-exposure environments. Explore Honeywell fall protection gear on Novarlo to find the right fit for your team.
OSHA Fall Protection Standards
Stay compliant with regulations to avoid fines—and protect your crew:
- OSHA 1926.501: Fall protection is required at 6 feet in construction
- OSHA 1910 Subpart D: Covers general industry fall protection requirements
- ANSI Z359: Voluntary national standard outlining best practices for fall systems
Visit OSHA's Fall Protection Page: Fall Protection - Overview | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
The Right Gear Saves Lives
Every job at height comes with risk, but the right fall protection system drastically reduces that risk. Whether you need a full arrest setup or just a tether to stay safe near the edge, Novarlo has the fall gear and expertise to keep you protected.
Shop Fall Protection Gear Now: https://novarlo.com/search?q=fall+protection
Work smart. Work safe. Work protected.