Falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. According to the National Safety Council, falls resulted in 865 worker deaths in 2022, with hundreds of thousands more requiring days away from work due to fall-related injuries (NSC, n.d.).
Below, we discuss the importance of reliable fall protection equipment and explore some of the leading solutions from FrenchCreek Safety to help keep your workers safe. For a limited time, get 15% off select FrenchCreek fall safety PPE with promo code FC15 at checkout. Sale ends November 1, 2024. The following products are included in this sale:
- French Creek 7' Tripod and 50' 3-Way Rescue Unit and Winch S50G-M7
- French Creek 9' Tripod 3-Way Rescue Unit and Winch S50G-M9
- French Creek 9' 631B Confined Space Rescue System
- French Creek 7' Tripod 3-Way Rescue Unit with Bag R50G-TP7
- French Creek 9' Tripod Rescue System S50_-9
- French Creek System 99 Self-Raising/Lowering System 99B (200 ft. option only)
- French Creek RL Series 100 FT Self-Retracting Lifeline RL100
Understanding the Importance of Fall Protection
While federal regulations and industry standards provide guidelines and recommendations for fall prevention and protection, the US continues to experience steady rates of fall-related injuries and fatalities due to persistent unsafe practices and low safety culture across many industries. According to the CDC, workers’ compensation and medical expenses associated with workplace falls are estimated to cost $70 billion annually (CDC, 2024).
For those looking to enhance their fall protection programs, companies like FrenchCreek Fall Safety offer robust safety solutions engineered to meet the highest standards, helping workers perform their duties safely and confidently. French Creek’s comprehensive line of fall protection equipment includes confined space, rescue, vertical climbing, and horizontal lifeline systems – all proudly made in the USA.
Rescue Tripods: Essential Gear for Confined Space Safety
Working in confined spaces presents unique safety hazards, including poor visibility, toxic atmospheres, and extreme temperatures that increase the potential for accidents. Rescue tripods are critical in mitigating these risks by providing a stable anchor point for fall arrest systems, ensuring safe and efficient worker rescue during emergencies.
Like their harnesses, FrenchCreek’s rescue tripods are known for their durability and ease of use. The FrenchCreek 9’ Tripod 3-Way Rescue Unit and Winch is a prime example, with its lightweight aluminum construction making it easy to transport and set up onsite. Despite its portability, it’s capable of supporting up to 5,000 lbs. This comprehensive rescue system includes a 50’ winch with raising and lowering capabilities and a 50’ galvanized steel self-retracting lifeline.
For situations where space is even more constrained, the FrenchCreek 7' Tripod and 50' 3-Way Rescue Unit and Winch offer a more compact solution without compromising safety or functionality. Like its bigger brother, it uses the MW50G Work Winch and galvanized self-retracting lifeline found in our confined space kits, which helps ensure the safe rescue of workers from even the tightest spaces.
Self-Retracting Lifelines: Technology & Application
Self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) are designed to provide continuous fall protection by automatically extending and retracting as the user moves. If a fall occurs, the sudden acceleration triggers an internal braking mechanism that locks the line, arresting the fall within a few inches. Many SRLs include an energy-absorbing feature that reduces the impact force on the user’s body during a fall.
FrenchCreek offers various self-retracting lifeline equipment for construction, tower climbing, rescue and confined spaces, utility work, and other similar applications. The SRLs part of this promotion includes the
French Creek RL Series 100 FT Self-Retracting Lifeline RL100. This SRL features cast aluminum housing and dual internal inertia braking system. It is available in three lifeline materials: galvanized steel, stainless steel, Technora synthetic rope. It is zero slack to eliminate tripping hazards and is proudly made in the USA.
FrenchCreek recommends periodic inspections of these mechanical units, as the internal mechanisms are not field inspectable. Periodic factory inspection further increases safety and optimizes product lifespan. For guidance on what to look for, check out our fall protection harness inspection blog.
Choosing the Right Fall Protection Equipment for Your Needs
Conducting a thorough risk assessment is the first step in choosing the appropriate safety equipment. Based on the nature of the job and the specific hazards and requirements of the work environment, determine whether personal fall arrest systems, restraint systems, or positioning devices are most suitable. For example, construction workers may require full-body harnesses and SRLs with shock absorbers, while those working in confined spaces might need tripods and winch systems for rescue operations.
Additionally, consider the weight and safety certifications of all fall protection gear. The equipment should meet the necessary safety standards, such as those set by OSHA or ANSI, and be comfortable enough for workers to wear over extended periods without restricting movement. By carefully selecting fall protection equipment that matches the job's specific needs, companies can ensure compliance with safety regulations while maximizing worker safety and comfort.
Contact our worker safety experts today for guidance on selecting the appropriate safety equipment for your needs. We’re always happy to help.
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References:
- National Safety Council (n.d.). Make Fall Safety a Top Priority. Retrieved from Slips, Trips and Falls - National Safety Council (nsc.org)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (January 23, 2024). About Falls in the Workplace. Retrieved from About Falls in the Workplace | Falls in the Workplace | CDC