What are the Key Differences Between a Fall Arrest and Fall Restraint System?

A fall arrest safety system typically includes an anchor point or series of anchor points, a safety lanyard or self-retracting lifeline, and a harness. This system must be designed to “arrest” or stop you before hitting the lower surface in the case of a fall. This gives you the freedom to walk all the way up to a fall hazard to do your work.

While utilizing many of the same elements, a fall restraint safety system keeps you from getting close enough to the fall hazard to fall. Imagine a leash keeping you within a safe distance from the edge. You are free to do your work without concern of falling and possibly injuring yourself because you are unable to reach the drop.