So you have acquired the correct fall protection and you are ready for your job at heights. The next crucial point (pun intended!) to determine is what your anchor point should be.
First you need to know that there are different main types of anchor points, which are as follows:
- | Fixed anchors
- | Temporary anchors
- | Horizontal lifelines
- | Vertical lifelines
- | Tripods and Davits
- | Counterweight anchors
- | Access systems
These main types can be divided into more sub categories which give you a wide range of options to choose from.
They can be divided as follows:
Fixed and temporary anchors
- | Anchors for concrete
- | Anchors for steel beams
- | Anchors for walls, ceilings and floors
- | Anchors for doors and windows
- | Straps or connection adapters
- | Remote anchoring systems
Horizontal lifelines
- | Permanent anchor lines
- | Portable anchor lines
- | Flexible anchor lines
- | Rigid anchor lines
Vertical lifelines
- | Flexible vertical anchor lifeline
- | Rigid vertical anchor lines
Tripods and Davits
- | Davit arm systems
- | Portable fall arrest posts
- | Aluminium tripods
Counterweight anchors
- | Vacuum anchors
- | Freestanding Rooftop Counterweight anchor
Access systems
- | Standard designs
- | Systems for heavy machine industries
- | Counterweight C-Frame systems
- | A-frame systems
There are also points which you should NEVER USE as an anchor point such as:
- | Scaffolding
- | Standard Guardrails
- | Railings
- | Light fixtures
- | Ductwork
- | Roof stacks
The reason that these should not be used as anchor points is because it will bend, break or fall when weight is suddenly placed on it.
You can imagine that even though you have a great fall arrest harness, it could be of no use if you choose the wrong anchor point so please choose wisely.
