Using the right SRL for the right fall factor

When working at height, selecting the right Self-Retracting Lifeline (SRL) is critical to ensuring worker safety. While many SRLs are designed for standard fall protection scenarios, few are rated for Fall Factor 2 applications—a crucial consideration when workers need to connect their SRL at foot level. Understanding why Fall Factor 2 matters and how it impacts fall protection can mean the difference between life and serious injury.

Understanding Fall Factor Ratings

Fall factor refers to the ratio between the distance a worker falls and the length of their safety connection. The higher the fall factor, the greater the forces exerted on the body and equipment in the event of a fall.

• Fall Factor 0: The anchor point is above the worker's head, minimising fall distance.
• Fall Factor 1: The anchor point is at or around dorsal D-ring level, meaning the worker will fall the length of the SRL before arresting.
• Fall Factor 2: The anchor point is at foot level, meaning the worker can fall twice the length of the SRL before the system activates.

A Fall Factor 2 fall results in the highest impact forces and requires specialised equipment to safely arrest the fall while minimising damage to the SRL and injury to the worker.

Selecting the Right SRL

Many traditional SRLs are only designed for Fall Factor 0 or 1, meaning they may not perform safely in foot-level tie-off scenarios. A standard SRL used at foot level is at higher risk of:

• Excessive impact forces—without an energy absorption system built for higher fall factors, the forces on the worker’s body and anchor system can exceed safe limits.
• Increased risk of line damage—in Fall Factor 2 scenarios, the lifeline may come into contact with leading edges or sharp structures, which can sever or damage the webbing or cable.
• Delayed engagement—some SRLs may not activate fast enough when deployed at foot level, leading to a longer free fall distance before arresting.

The Importance of a Fall Factor 2 Rated SRL

A Fall Factor 2 rated SRL, such as the ZERO® Supalite, is specifically designed to withstand the demands of foot-level tie-off scenarios. These SRLs offer several key advantages:

• Tested and rated for foot-level anchorage – ensuring reliable fall arrest performance at greater fall distances.
• PPE-R-11.060 leading edge compliance – providing additional edge resistance in case of contact with sharp surfaces.
• Integrated energy absorption system – reducing impact forces on the worker’s body and anchorage.

Who Needs a Fall Factor 2 Rated SRL?

Example: Scaffolding Work and Fall Factor 1.5 Tie-Off

In scaffolding work, workers often use the scaffold rails as their connection point, as overhead anchorage is not always available. These rails are typically positioned around 1100 mm high (just above waist level), which places the worker in a scenario between Fall Factor 1 and Fall Factor 2 (often referred to as Fall Factor 1.5). In the event of a fall, the worker could drop twice the length of the SRL before arresting, requiring an SRL specifically designed to handle the high impact forces and potential leading edge risks.

Workers in industries where foot-level tie-off is common should always use a Fall Factor 2 rated SRL to ensure safety. These include:

• Roofing and construction – where workers may need to connect at foot level due to the structure layout.
• Scaffolding work – where overhead anchor points may not always be available.
• Maintenance and industrial applications – where movement restrictions mean workers must anchor low.
• EWP (Elevated Work Platforms) and confined space work – where limited anchor points require safe and effective fall protection solutions.