PFAS - Anchorages

A personal fall arrest system relies on the strength and stability of its anchorage to be effective. Anchorages for PFAS must meet the following criteria:

• Anchorages must be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms.
• Anchorages must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per employee attached, or must be designed, installed, and used as follows:
  • As part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor of at least two; and
  • Under the supervision of a qualified person.

In addition, personal fall arrest systems must not be attached to guardrail systems or hoists. When a PFAS is used at hoist areas, it must be rigged to allow the movement of the employee only as far as the edge of the walking or working surface.

To learn more about Scaffolding Safety visit our Construction Scaffolding Safety Online Training web page.