Fall arrest vs fall restraint: What is the difference?
When working at height, your choice of fall protection can mean the difference between prevention and rescue. Two of the most common systems — fall arrest and fall restraint — serve different purposes, and knowing when to use each one is key to site safety and compliance.
At 247Direct, we supply certified Checkmate® fall protection equipment — trusted by professionals who need reliable, tested gear for every task at height.
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🧗♂️ What Is a Fall Arrest System?
A fall arrest system is designed to stop a fall in progress once it has started. It doesn’t prevent the fall — it limits the distance and impact, protecting the user from serious injury.
Typical components include:
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Full-body harness – distributes fall forces across the torso and legs.
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Shock-absorbing lanyard or SRL (Self-Retracting Lifeline) – reduces impact forces.
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Anchor point – a secure fixing rated to withstand fall loads.
Fall arrest systems are essential where a fall risk can’t be completely eliminated, such as roof work, scaffolding, or tower maintenance.
🚧 What Is a Fall Restraint System?
A fall restraint system, on the other hand, prevents a fall from happening in the first place. The user is secured in a way that physically stops them from reaching a fall hazard — for example, the edge of a roof or platform.
Key components include:
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Harness and adjustable lanyard – limit the user’s range of movement.
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Fixed or temporary anchor point – positioned to keep the user within a safe working zone.
Fall restraint is often preferred for lower-risk or routine access work, where preventing exposure to an edge is practical.
⚙️ Fall Arrest vs. Fall Restraint: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Fall Arrest | Fall Restraint |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Stops a fall in progress | Prevents reaching the hazard |
| Use Case | Roofs, towers, scaffolding | Platforms, flat roofs, maintenance |
| Risk Level | High-risk, open-edge work | Lower-risk, controlled environments |
| Key Component | Shock-absorbing lanyard or SRL | Adjustable restraint lanyard |
| Post-Fall Action | Requires rescue plan | No fall to arrest, so no rescue needed |
✅ Choosing the Right System
The safest approach is always prevention first — so use fall restraint wherever possible. But some jobs require freedom of movement near edges, which means fall arrest gear is essential.
Always carry out a risk assessment before selecting a system, and ensure your equipment meets EN safety standards.
👉 Checkmate® Harnesses, Lanyards & SRLs — designed for both restraint and arrest systems.
🧠 Top Questions About Fall Arrest & Restraint
What’s the main difference between fall arrest and fall restraint?
Fall restraint prevents a fall from occurring; fall arrest protects you if one happens.
Can the same harness be used for both systems?
Yes — most Checkmate® full-body harnesses can be used in both, provided they’re paired with the correct lanyard or SRL.
Which is safer — fall arrest or fall restraint?
Fall restraint is safer when possible, as it eliminates the fall risk entirely. Fall arrest should be your backup when restraint isn’t practical.
Do I need a rescue plan for fall arrest systems?
Yes. Any fall arrest setup must include a rescue procedure — lowering or retrieval within minutes is essential to prevent suspension trauma.
How often should fall protection gear be inspected?
Before every use (visually) and formally every 6 months by a competent person.