The term self-rescue is a bit misleading. If a worker takes a fall, and a self-retracting lifeline (SRL) or other fall protection lifeline stops their fall, there might be situations where an unassisted self-rescue is possible. They might be close enough to a ledge or floor level to be able to reach out and grab it and pull themselves up on to it. Read more.

When discussing the effectiveness of certain types of fall protection equipment, there is a debate going on these days over which type of connector is best: self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) or 6-foot shock absorbing lanyards (the connector is the device that links the body harness to an anchorage, such as an overhead fixed track or single-point anchor points). It is our opinion that SRLs are the best type of connector. Yes, lanyards are less expensive, but SRLs provide more effective fall protection, and are worth the extra money you spend. Read more.

A rescue plan is critical to any well-managed fall protection program, but it is an often-overlooked factor. Having a plan in place is necessary for any organization with workers at height. No one wants to see a co-worker hurt. Every employee working at a height must be prepared to act quickly in the event of an accident, specifically, because suspension trauma starts to set in within minutes. Read more.