Fall protection user weight: remember to include the weight of the equipment
By Dirk van Blijswijk, Manager, Safe Site – Powered by Mennens Expertise Centre
When selecting personal fall protection equipment, one of the key considerations is the user’s weight. This is absolutely essential for the user’s safety. Most commonly sold fall protection equipment is only suitable for a user weight of up to 100 kg, as manufacturers base this limit on the test weight specified in the relevant standard tests.
First, some theory. Your body weight and your complete equipment together determine your user weight. User weight is important because of the maximum permissible fall arrest force: the impact force generated when you are brought to a stop after a fall while attached to a fall protection system. The standard specifies that this impact force must never exceed 600 kg, or 6 kilonewtons, when using a test weight of 100 kg. This fall arrest force is the maximum the human body can withstand without suffering serious internal injury.
Energy Absorbers
Energy absorbers are used to minimise the fall arrest force as much as possible. The absorber extends and absorbs some of the energy generated during a fall. This reduces the force exerted on the body itself, keeping it below 600 kg when using a test weight of 100 kg.
User Weight or Body Weight?
Fall protection equipment such as safety harnesses and energy absorbers is, of course, tested for this purpose. Under the applicable standards, testing is carried out using a 100 kg test dummy. If the equipment passes the test, it is approved for a user weight of up to 100 kg. However, this is not the same as your body weight.
Your Complete Equipment Counts Too
And this is where it becomes important. A body weight of between 85 and 95 kg is very common. Add your workwear, such as safety footwear, tools, and rescue and evacuation kit. An average set of standard PPE can easily weigh 13 kg. This can quickly take your total user weight above 100 kg.
That poses a serious risk. In the event of a fall, the energy absorber may extend to its maximum length, potentially causing the peak load to exceed 6 kilonewtons. This could result in injuries, including internal injuries.
Choose the Right Fall Protection Equipment
Fortunately, more and more fall protection equipment is becoming available for user weights above 100 kg. For example, some equipment is suitable for user weights of up to 140 kg. Although a 140 kg rating may initially seem unnecessary, you can reach this total weight much sooner than you might think.
The manufacturer states the maximum user weight on the product or in the instructions for use. Please note that this often includes the weight of any tools being carried.
Get Expert Advice
When looking for the right fall protection equipment, always make sure that its specified user weight is suitable for the wearer. And remember to include the weight of the wearer’s equipment and tools.
My colleagues and I will, of course, be happy to advise you. We have also developed a free white paper on working safely at height and in confined spaces. Download it free of charge to learn more about this subject.
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