What are the two major categories of fall protection equipment?

The two major categories of fall protection equipment are fall-restraint and fall-arrest. Fall-restraint systems are designed to prevent a worker from reaching a fall hazard by restricting their movement. This type of system keeps workers from getting too close to edges or unprotected sides where a fall might occur. Common examples include guardrails and safety nets.

On the other hand, fall-arrest systems are intended to stop a worker from falling once they have already entered a fall hazard zone. These systems are critical for ensuring that if a fall does occur, the worker is safely stopped before hitting the ground. Examples include harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points that absorb and dissipate the energy of a fall.

Understanding these categories is crucial for implementing effective fall protection strategies on construction sites, ensuring the safety and health of workers engaged in elevated tasks. This framework helps in selecting the appropriate equipment based on the specific risks present in the work environment.