How to choose a fall arrest lanyard: length and energy absorber

If you need to arrest a possible fall from height, choose a lanyard with an energy absorber to EN 355, as short as the job allows (the collection runs from about 40 cm to 180 cm). If you only need to hold yourself in position on a pole or a wall without being able to fall, you need a work positioning lanyard (EN 358), which does not absorb energy. The lanyard connects the harness to the anchor point: its length, the number of legs and the clearance below you decide whether it is really suitable.

The types

• Single fall arrest lanyard: one leg in rope or webbing, with an energy absorber. This is the basic case for anyone working at a fixed point, for example on a roof with an overhead anchor.
• Twin-leg lanyard: two legs, so you can stay connected at all times while you move one connector after the other. It is needed on structures with several anchor points in sequence, such as scaffolding and beams.
• Elastic or adjustable lanyard: the length adapts to the distance from the anchor point, for example with the adjustment loops of the SP140 twin-leg lanyard. It shortens when you work close to the attachment point and reduces the free-fall distance.
• Work positioning lanyard: keeps your body taut at the work point (standard EN 358). It is used together with a fall arrest system, not instead of one.
• Energy absorber: the element that, in the event of a fall, limits the force transmitted to the body. It is also available on its own, like the Grillon absorber, to be combined with a connector or a lanyard.
• Slings: connecting elements with one, two or four legs, some of them adjustable, such as the Exoset G100 two-leg adjustable slings.
• Semi-static ropes: low-stretch ropes (standard EN 1891) for rope access and positioning, not to be used as a lanyard with an absorber. The collection includes the Axis, Duraline and Parallel from Petzl, for example the Axis 11 mm.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Standards: EN 354 identifies a lanyard as a connecting element, EN 355 an energy absorber, EN 358 work positioning and EN 362 connectors. A complete fall arrest lanyard often carries the combination EN 354 | EN 355 | EN 362. If you see only EN 354 and not EN 355, the lanyard does not absorb the energy of a fall.
• Length: in the collection you will find values such as 40, 90-125, 140, 150, 180 cm, and adjustable versions (for example 115-155 or 135-175 cm). Take the shortest length that is compatible with the job: the longer the lanyard, the further you fall before it stops you.
• Material: polyamide and polyester for webbing and ropes, steel for the hardware, in some cases aramid fibre. Aramid fibre is intended for more severe conditions; for normal use polyamide and polyester are enough. Always read the product page to see which risks the model is suited to.
• Weight: from 75 g for a light element to over 1.7 kg for a complete system. If you wear it all day, you feel the weight.
• Warranty: many models state 3 years, but the warranty does not replace the checks before use.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting the clearance: a lanyard with an absorber needs a distance below your feet to stop the fall. If there is the floor slab or a ladder beneath you, a long lanyard is not enough.
• Anchoring below the waist: the anchor point should be as far above your head as possible. The lower it is, the longer the fall and the greater the risk of impact.
• Using a work positioning lanyard as fall arrest: it does not absorb energy and is not designed to stop a fall.
• Reusing a lanyard that has already held a fall: it must be withdrawn from service, even if it looks intact.
• Not checking the absorber casing: if it is open or torn, the lanyard must not be used.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a lanyard and an energy absorber?

The lanyard is the connection between harness and anchor point; the absorber is the element that limits the force of the fall on the body. Many fall arrest lanyards already have it built in, but you can also find it separately.

How long should a fall arrest lanyard be?

As short as possible for the work you do. The length changes the distance you travel before the fall is stopped, and therefore the clearance you need below. If the distance from the anchor point varies, choose an adjustable model.

Can I use a semi-static rope as a lanyard?

No, a semi-static rope to EN 1891 is for rope access and positioning. As a fall arrest lanyard you must use a product marked with an absorber (EN 355).

How often should it be checked?

Before every use: stitching, webbing, connectors and the absorber casing. Periodic inspections follow the manufacturer's instructions given on the product page.

You will find all the models in the Lanyards and Energy Absorbers collection: if you are not sure which length or type you need, request a quote or ask the AMES technicians for advice.