What is the difference between “Fall Arrest” and “Fall Restraint”?

What is the difference between “Fall Arrest” and “Fall Restraint”?

 

FALL ARREST

FALL RESTRAINT
Fall Arrest is reactive — it allows a worker to move freely near or over a fall hazard, but catches them after a fall begins. The system arrests the fall before the worker hits a lower level. Fall Restraint is restrictive — it stops a worker from ever reaching a fall hazard. The lanyard or tether is short enough that the worker physically cannot get to the edge. No fall occurs.
  • The worker can move freely, including over or near the fall hazard
  • The system activates after a fall begins, catching the worker mid-fall
  • OSHA requires free fall be limited to 6 feet, with total fall arrest (including deceleration) within about 9.5 feet
  • Requires a full harness, deceleration device, and verified clearance to a lower level
  • More common on structures, towers, ladders, and elevated platforms
  • The tether/lanyard is short enough that the worker physically cannot reach the hazard edge
  • No fall ever happens — it is entirely restrictive
  • Because no fall occurs, there’s no arrest force on the body
  • Simpler to implement in some cases, but limits worker mobility
  • Typically used on flat roofs and leading-edge work where the hazard is predictable
Fall Arrest versus Fall Restraint