Fall protection systems for working at heights constitute a critical technical system ensuring the safety of workers, with their design centered around the two core principles of "fall prevention" and "fall arrest". A complete and effective system must comprise three interrelated components: the body support system, the connecting device system, and the anchor point system. None of these three components can be omitted, and compatibility and integrity among them must be ensured.

 

The body support system typically refers to a standard-compliant full-body safety harness. Its function is to distribute fall impact forces to strong parts of the human body such as the thighs, pelvis, chest, and shoulders, thereby avoiding injury caused by concentrated force on the waist. It should be noted that waist-only safety belts are prohibited from use in fall protection systems for working at heights.

 

The connecting device system serves as the crucial link between the body support system and the anchor points, including energy-absorbing lanyards, self-locking devices, retractable fall arresters, and safety ropes with energy-absorbing packs. Through energy-absorbing mechanisms, this component reduces the impact force borne by the human body to a safe range (usually below 6 kN), ensuring the safety of personnel in the event of a fall.

 

As the ultimate load-bearing structure, the anchor point system must be installed on stable load-bearing components, with a static load strength of at least 22 kN (approximately 5000 pounds) or designed with a higher safety factor. The location, strength, and connection method of anchor points directly determine whether the system can effectively arrest a fall.

 

In terms of standards and specifications, China's fall protection system standard is undergoing significant updates. The mandatory national standard "Selection, Use and Maintenance of Fall Protection Equipment" (GB 23468-2025) was released on August 29, 2025, and is scheduled to be formally implemented on September 1, 2026, fully replacing the previous recommended standard GB/T 23468-2009. Additionally, "Fall Protection - Powered Elevating Fall Arrest Devices" (GB 45187-2024) has also been released and will come into effect on January 1, 2026. These new standards, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Emergency Management, signify more stringent and standardized requirements for the management and use of fall protection equipment.

 

When selecting and using fall protection systems, the three components must be considered as an integrated whole to ensure that all components are matched. A defect in any single link may lead to the failure of the protection system. Prior to working at heights, a systematic risk assessment must be conducted to identify all potential fall hazards and configure appropriate protective equipment accordingly. Continuous risk assessment and management can effectively reduce the occurrence of falls from height accidents.