5 Active vs Passive
Fall protection systems are either active or passive.
Active fall protection systems require workers to take specific actions, including wearing (and otherwise using) personal fall protection equipment and following prescribed procedures. Examples include active travel restraint and fall arrest systems.
Passive fall protection systems do not require workers to wear or otherwise use fallprotection equipment or to have any specialized knowledge or skills related to the system. Examples include guardrail systems, nets and temporary flooring.
Fall prevention should always be the first priority.
Systems that prevent workers from falling are preferred.
Examples include:
- Travel-restraint systems (prevent workers from reaching an unprotected edge or opening)
- Temporary flooring
Fall arrest systems and safety nets protect you after you fall, by stopping the fall before you hit an unsafe surface below. This is not the preferred approach if there is another option that would prevent the fall.
In choosing a fall protection system, apply the Hierarchy of Control:
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- Always assess the hazards before beginning any task.
- Where the hazard of fall exists, choose an appropriate means of protection.
- It is not acceptable for workers to be at risk of falling!
Work Positioning Systems
- A work positioning system is a tool that allows the user to work at height and have both hands free to work.
- A work positioning system is not a fall protection system!
- When working at heights where fall protection is required, a fall protection system must be used with a work positioning system.