Fall Protection Lanyards

Design Considerations

Compare Lanyard Types

Energy-Absorbing Lanyards
Also called shock-absorbing lanyards, these devices help manage forces during a fall. Select a model rated for the anticipated free fall and verify the required clearance.

Restraint Lanyards

A restraint lanyard limits movement so the worker cannot reach a fall hazard. Its length and the anchorage arrangement must keep the worker within the protected area. A restraint-only lanyard is not a substitute for a fall arrest device.

Positioning Lanyards

Positioning lanyards support a worker in a working position. Where the task also exposes the worker to a fall hazard, evaluate the need for separate fall arrest protection.

Single-Leg and Twin-Leg Options

Single-leg lanyards provide one anchorage connection. Twin-leg options can support continuous connection during transfers when used as instructed. Confirm the approved transfer method and where to park the unused leg.

Select for the Anchorage and Available Clearance

Lanyard length is only part of the clearance calculation. Anchor height, free-fall distance, energy-absorber deployment, and other system factors affect the space needed to arrest a fall.

Review the device instructions for capacity, connector compatibility, and restrictions on edge contact or tie-back use. If clearance is limited, evaluate whether a suitable self-retracting lifeline is appropriate for the application.

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