Fall Arrest Equipment for Working at Height

The importance of fall protection is clear as falling from height can result in severe or fatal injuries. The consequences of inadequate protection are life-changing. In the UK alone in 2014 there were over 2,800 injuries reported from workers falling from height, some of which were fatal.

Fall arrest equipment is essential for businesses where employees are required to work at height and are exposed to fall risks. The primary aim of fall protection products is to safely prevent a worker from falling when working at height.

Tiger Supplies supplies professional fall arrest equipment for businesses operating across construction, industrial maintenance, utilities, and specialist work environments. Our range supports organisations that require compliant, dependable height safety solutions, backed by consistent availability, next working day delivery on eligible orders, free UK delivery on orders over £75, and market-leading customer service.

Fall Protection Equipment by Type

Fall protection systems are typically made up of multiple components that work together as part of a complete personal fall protection system. Our fall protection equipment range is structured into the following core types to support efficient sourcing and system compatibility:

Fall Restraint vs Fall Arrest Systems

Fall protection equipment is commonly used in two distinct ways depending on site conditions and task requirements. Understanding the difference between restraint and arrest helps businesses select appropriate fall arrest gear aligned to their risk assessments.

Fall restraint systems are designed to prevent a worker from reaching a position where a fall could occur. These systems limit movement and are typically used where exposure to a fall hazard can be controlled.

Fall arrest systems are designed to slow and stop a worker safely if a fall occurs. Components such as a fall arrest harness, fall arrester, or retractable fall arrester work together to reduce impact forces and support controlled arrest.

Planning Safe Work at Height

Effective use of fall arrest equipment requires proper planning and system design. A commonly referenced approach is the “ABC of fall protection”, which highlights the three essential elements of a fall protection system. The primary types of fall protection systems comprise three main components:

A – Anchorage Point: A secure fixing point that provides a stable connection for the system.

B – Body Harness: A full body harness worn by the worker to distribute load during fall arrest.

C – Connecting Device: Equipment such as a fall arrest lanyard or fall arrest block that links the harness to the anchorage point.

Fall Protection Standards & Compliance

Fall protection equipment and height safety equipment may comply with recognised European and international standards. These standards define how equipment is tested and used within personal fall protection systems.

Key EN standards referenced include:

Other referenced standards include EN 363, EN 364, EN 365, and EN 795, covering complete fall arrest systems, test methods, marking requirements, and anchor devices. Understanding these standards helps businesses select compliant fall arrest blocks, fall arrest lanyards, and related equipment suited to their working-at-height requirements.

Hierarchy of Fall Protection

Where possible, safer working practices should reduce reliance on equipment alone. A practical hierarchy for working at height includes:

Avoid the risk: Consider safer alternatives to working at height where possible.

Guard additional hazards: Ensure no extra site hazards are introduced during work.

Use adequate protection: If working at height is essential, ensure suitable fall arrest equipment is selected and used correctly.

Recommended PPE – Working at Height

In addition to fall arrest equipment, supporting PPE is often recommended to manage secondary risks when working at height:

Short Peak Hard Hats – Reduced peak design improves vision while working at height.

Banded Safety Spectacles – Prevent dropped eyewear causing hazards below.

Abrasion Resistant Gloves – Level 4 abrasion-resistant gloves help reduce injury risk while maintaining dexterity.

Should you have any queries, contact our sales team on 0844 848 3444 or email sales@tiger-supplies.co.uk.

Why Choose Tiger Supplies for Fall Protection Equipment

Tiger Supplies supports businesses sourcing fall protection equipment with dependable stock availability and a clear focus on professional workplace safety. Our range is selected to support compliant system design for working at height, helping organisations standardise equipment across sites. With responsive customer support and efficient order fulfilment, we help businesses manage height safety requirements with confidence.

Fall Protection Equipment FAQs

What is fall arrest equipment used for?
Fall arrest equipment is used to slow and stop a worker safely if a fall occurs while working at height.

What is the difference between fall restraint and fall arrest?
Fall restraint prevents access to a fall hazard, while fall arrest is designed to stop a fall once it happens.

What does the ABC of fall protection mean?
It refers to Anchorage Point, Body Harness, and Connecting Device — the three core elements of a fall protection system.

Do fall arrest systems need to meet safety standards?
Professional equipment is commonly selected based on relevant EN standards covering harnesses, lanyards, connectors, and energy absorbers.

Do you supply fall protection equipment for businesses?
Yes. Tiger Supplies supports trade and business customers with dependable availability and fast UK delivery.

Why choose Tiger Supplies?
Businesses choose Tiger Supplies for reliable stock, next working day delivery on eligible orders, free UK delivery over £75, and market-leading customer service.