What are lifeline systems?
Lifeline systems or Anchor Lines are safety systems connected to a structure to create a traffic axis for the worker while fully protecting them from the danger of falling. The system is mounted on a flexible cable or rigid rail, connected to continuous anchor points, to which the worker easily attaches with a safety harness for work at height.
In this article, we map out the several types of lifeline systems to help customers in making the right choice.
Fixed lifeline systems
A fixed lifeline consists of a cable or rigid track. It provides a solution for factories or
buildings where height work is carried out on an ongoing basis, such as maintenance of solar panels, work on roofs for sealing and renovation, cleaning gutters, and pipe bridges in factories. Fixed lifeline systems are constantly connected to the structure from the moment they are installed. They create anchor points, safe passages, and axial movement on the designated workspace, so the worker remains secure without needing to disconnect from the system
during transitions and changing positions on the roof.
When installing lifeline systems, ensure proper use according to the standard’s requirements so that the worker is continuously secured to a fixed or mobile anchor point throughout the duration of their work. This system dramatically minimizes the risk of falling from heights.
The Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Industry’s guidelines clarify that fixed lifeline systems require
approval from a registered and licensed civil engineer, mechanical engineer, or construction engineer. They must also meet the requirements of the European standard EN795.
Mobile Lifeline Systems
Mobile lifeline or anchor line systems
are a quick and inexpensive solution for work surfaces around short-term
projects. They are characterized by simple, convenient, and safe installation but
they are unsuitable for buildings where ongoing work is carried out.
Mobile lifeline systems are made from straps or ropes, usually of textile materials, up to 20 meters long. They require strong anchor points bearing a weight of 25 kN.
Horizontal or vertical lifeline systems
When mapping the area of the building in preparation for planning the installation of the system, we choose the most suitable and safest lifeline system for the work surface and
the shape and location and the kind of work that must be done.
Anchor lines, whether fixed or portable, are made of fixed components but are not manufactured as a uniform model. Their installation requires adaptation to the conditions of the
building, the roof, and the safety requirements in place.
To choose the right system, the safety officer must be familiar with the details of the various standards and their requirements, because it is important to distinguish between the
different standards of these lifeline systems: a horizontal lifeline is bound
by the requirements of the EN795-c standard, while a vertical lifeline must
withstand different loads per the EN-353 standard.
Special circumstances: corrosive surfaces
After extensive experience installing lifeline systems in various work environments, we have seen that factories and sites where materials with corrosive properties are used need special systems which are adapted and unique to these conditions.
Corrosion damage at the site or plant can cause rapid wear and tear, impair the integrity of the components, and significantly endanger the worker connected to the lifeline.
We provide service and solutions for a system that meets corrosive conditions, using an adapted temporary system that can be dismantled at the end of the work. This approach prevents future wear and tear and saves long-term expenses.