Retractable fall arresters

Self-retracting lifeline: freedom of movement and immediate fall arrest

A self-retracting lifeline (SRL), also called a fall arrest block, connects the harness to the anchor point with a webbing strap or cable that follows the user's movements. In the event of a fall, a locking system stops the descent within a short distance. The KRATOS SAFETY range runs from 1.75 m to 30 m, for work on aerial work platforms, scaffolding, roofs, pylons or in confined spaces.

Choosing a self-retracting lifeline for your work situation

• Aerial work platforms: a short webbing SRL (1.75 m) limits slack and follows the user's movements in the basket.
• Scaffolding: a twin-webbing SRL with large scaffold hooks lets the user stay connected at all times when moving from one level to another.
• Roofs and horizontal work: a model certified for horizontal use (sharp edge), usable at fall factor 2 when the anchor point is at foot level.
• Shafts, tanks and confined spaces: a 10 to 30 m cable SRL with integrated rescue winch both arrests the fall and lifts the person out; some can also be used in explosive atmospheres (ATEX zone 1).
• Wet or corrosive environments: stainless steel cable or waterproof versions withstand bad weather and saline environments.

The line is chosen according to the environment: webbing is lighter, galvanised or stainless steel cable is more resistant to abrasion. Before installation, calculate the required clearance with the i-beSafe tool, based on the SRL chosen and the workstation configuration.

Standards and regulations for self-retracting lifelines

Self-retracting lifelines are certified to EN 360. Depending on their features, further requirements apply:

• horizontal use over a sharp edge, validated by additional tests according to recommendation sheet VG 11.060,
• EN 1496 for models with an integrated rescue winch.

Every self-retracting lifeline sold in the European Union falls under Regulation (EU) 2016/425. The Documents tab of each product page gives access to the user instructions, the technical data sheet, the EU type-examination certificate and the declaration of conformity. Also check the maximum weight shown on the product page: it refers to the fully equipped user.

Completing your equipment: from SRL to fall arrest system

An SRL forms a fall arrest system together with:

• a fall arrest harness connected by its dorsal or sternal attachment point,
• a connector suited to the anchor point,
• an anchor point sized for the load, located above the user for vertical use.

For the most common workstations, fall arrest kits bring together components that are already compatible.

Maintenance and inspection of a self-retracting lifeline

• Before each use: fully extend the webbing or cable, check locking with a sharp pull, inspect the housing, the connector and the fall indicator where fitted.
• Periodic examination at least once a year by a competent person, as required by national regulations, recorded in the inspection log.
• After an arrested fall: withdraw from service immediately and return to the manufacturer or an approved repairer, as stated in the user instructions.

Service life and servicing conditions are detailed on the KRATOS SAFETY product service life page; the after-sales service handles maintenance in France and across Europe.

For vertical movement on rope, also see our guided type fall arresters.