PPE Fall Arrest Blocks

Fall Arrest Blocks work with an automatic braking system that activates when the user suffers a sudden fall. This retractable fall arrest device has an internal spring mechanism and inertial brake that blocks the cable (usually made of steel or tape) as soon as it detects a higher than normal acceleration, stopping the fall in just a few centimetres. Unlike a simple safety harness, the fall arrest block reduces the impact on the body, minimising the risk of injury. This equipment is essential for ensuring safety at height and must be combined with a secure anchor point and appropriate PPE.

Although both are fall arrest devices used for safety purposes when working at height, fall arrest blocks and lifelines serve different purposes. Fall arrest blocks are retractable and automatically activate in the event of a fall, quickly and safely arresting the user. Lifelines can be horizontal or vertical, fixed or temporary, and function as continuous anchoring systems that the user moves along. Combining a fall arrest block with a safety harness and lifeline creates a robust fall protection system that is common in industrial and construction environments.

Retractable fall arrest devices, such as fall arrest blocks, offer multiple advantages: they allow greater freedom of movement thanks to the automatic retraction system, they always maintain tension on the cable, preventing slack that could increase the fall distance, and they offer an extremely fast response time in the event of an accident. These devices drastically reduce the impact force exerted on the user, increasing safety and reducing the risk of serious injury. At RAG Tailors, we recommend using these devices as part of a complete PPE system for safety at height.

Regular maintenance and inspection of fall arrest blocks is crucial to ensure their efficient and safe operation. A visual check is recommended before each use, looking for damage to the retractable cable, signs of corrosion, wear on the connectors and operation of the locking mechanism. In addition, a periodic technical inspection by a qualified professional should be carried out, preferably every 12 months or as per the manufacturer’s instructions. RAG Tailors advises that all personal protective equipment for fall prevention is correctly stored, cleaned and replaced when necessary, in accordance with European standards.

The use of fall arrest blocks is mandatory whenever there is a risk of falling from a height of more than 2 metres, or when it is not possible to install effective collective protection. This type of PPE must be used in places such as scaffolding, roofs, metal structures, towers or silos. Labour legislation and European safety standards determine that any worker exposed to the risk of falling must use a safety system with fall arrest blocks, a safety harness and a reliable anchor point. At RAG Tailors, we help you select the right equipment for each type of task and work environment.

Fall arrest blocks must strictly comply with European standards governing personal protective equipment against falls from height. The main applicable standard is EN 360, which establishes the performance, testing and marking requirements for retractable fall arrest devices. Other complementary standards such as EN 361 (safety harnesses) or EN 362 (connectors) are also relevant in the composition of complete safety systems. RAG Tailors sells certified equipment that complies with these requirements, ensuring maximum protection for professionals working at height.

Yes, at RAG Tailors we offer customization options for various safety equipment, including PPE for working at heights. Although fall arrest blocks are not usually customized, it is possible to apply embroidery, screen printing or printing to other components such as vests, belts, carry bags and safety accessories. To request customization, please send an email with the references and desired image. The delivery time for customized orders is 10 to 15 business days. Equipment without customization is delivered within 5 business days.