What distinction is made between fall protection and fall restraint?

The distinction between fall protection and fall restraint primarily lies in their objectives and methods of preventing falls. Fall restraint is designed to limit exposure to fall hazards by keeping the worker away from the edge or hazard. It is a proactive approach that prevents the possibility of falling in the first place by ensuring that workers are positioned in a way that they cannot reach the edge or area from which they could fall.

In contrast, fall protection systems are implemented when a fall has already occurred, thereby working to safeguard an individual from injury during a fall. This can include various measures such as safety nets, harnesses with lanyards, and other forms of equipment that arrest a fall once it begins.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for safety practices on job sites. Fall restraint emphasizes preventing falls by design and positioning, making it a vital part of fall prevention strategies in the workplace.