Working near an edge changes the risk
A self-retracting lifeline (SRL) extends and retracts as the worker moves. During a fall, its mechanism locks. However, many standard SRLs are meant for vertical use with an overhead anchorage—the secure point above the worker to which the equipment is connected. They should not be used horizontally, connected at foot level or allowed to pass over an edge. If it is required to be used horizontally then that SRL should have been tested as per standard and should comply with the laid down standards.
Working horizontally almost always means working in close proximity to an edge.
Near the exposed edge of a roof, deck, concrete slab or steel structure, a fall can place the lifeline against the edge. The line may then be pulled over it under load. If the lifeline is not designed for this situation it can result in abrasion, deformation or cutting of the lifeline.
Another risk associated with working near an edge is the potential for an increased fall distance. When the anchor point is located at or near foot level, the worker may fall farther before the SRL arrests the fall. This can increase the clearance required below the worker and may result in greater forces being applied to the worker and the fall-arrest system.
Falls from height continue to be a significant workplace hazard in across Asia. In Asia injuries and fatalities in fall from height account for 32% to 46% of fatalities. This highlights the importance of selecting fall-arrest equipment that is appropriate for the specific hazards, anchorage arrangements and work environment.
What does “Sharp-Edge Tested” mean?
Sharp-edge testing checks whether an SRL can arrest a fall if its lifeline comes into contact with an edge. For the KStrong Brute Leading Edge SRL, testing is conducted over a burr-free steel edge with a radius of 0.5 mm to represent a “worst-case” cutting/abrasion edge. This creates a standardised test condition for measuring the product’s performance.
A sharp-edge rating applies only to edge conditions similar to those covered by the product test. An edge that is sharper, rougher, rusty, damaged or burred may damage the lifeline. Therefore, the actual edge must be checked before the SRL is selected. If the edge condition is outside the product’s approved limits, the edge must be protected, the anchorage position must be changed, or another fall-protection method must be used.
How do Sharp-Edge SRLs help?
Sharp-edge SRLs are designed for work that standard overhead-use SRLs may not cover. KStrong’s current Brute Sharp Edge range includes webbing models in 3.5 m and 6 m lengths and wire-rope models in 3.5 m, 6 m, 10 m, 15 m and 20 m lengths. Each of these configurations comes with a steel snap hook.
Depending on the model, other features may include an energy absorber, durable housing, swivel hardware and a fall indicator.
The correct lifeline type and length must be selected for the worksite. The installation position, user weight, anchorage requirements and clearance limits given for the exact model must still be followed.
When can one be used?
A sharp-edge SRL may be considered where horizontal movement or edge contact cannot be avoided, including roofing, steel erection, bridge work, deck installation, concrete slab work and industrial maintenance. Safer options, such as preventing edge access, using restraint or providing an overhead anchorage, should be considered first.
As with all work at height activities, PCBUs should ensure fall hazards are identified, assessed and controlled in accordance with applicable WHS legislation and the hierarchy of controls. Sharp-edge SRLs should be considered as part of an overall fall protection system, not as a substitute for higher-order controls where these are reasonably practicable.
The anchor point must meet the strength and positioning requirements stated in the selected SRL’s instructions. The lifeline must extend freely between the SRL and the worker without rubbing against other obstacles or running at an unapproved angle. There must also be enough clear space below the worker to prevent them from hitting the ground or another obstacle. Sideways movement must be controlled because it can cause a swing fall towards a nearby structure.
Always refer to product instructions for approved applications, clearance requirements and compatibility limitations.
Correct use is essential
The manufacturer’s instructions must always come first. For the setup covered by the KStrong Brute Leading-Edge manual, the SRL’s anchorage point must be positioned at least 600 mm back from the potential sharp edge. This requirement is model-specific and must not be treated as a universal rule for every SRL.
Before every use, inspect the SRL’s housing, lifeline, energy absorber, connectors and fall indicator. Check that the lifeline retracts steadily and that the locking mechanism works correctly. If cuts, heavy wear, broken wires, corrosion, deformation or damaged connectors are found, remove the SRL from use immediately and send it to a KStrong Certified Service Centre for inspection. It may be repaired and returned to use only after the service centre confirms that it is safe. If it cannot be repaired, it must be permanently removed from service.
Use the instructions or clearance chart for the exact SRL model to confirm that there is enough clear space below the worker. Consider the anchorage position, the distance required to stop the fall, sideways movement, swing-fall risk and nearby obstructions. A rescue plan must be ready before work begins so that a suspended worker can be brought to safety quickly.
Understanding compliance
Certification to a general SRL standard does not automatically mean that the product is approved for sharp-edge, horizontal or foot-level use. EN 360:2023 introduced additional testing requirements for SRLs intended for foot-level attachment in horizontal applications, including tests involving loading over an edge. To address these specialised requirements, KStrong offers the Brute Sharp Edge SRL range, specifically designed and tested for approved edge-related applications. The range is available in webbing and wire-rope configurations to support different worksite requirements.
Product markings, technical data sheets and manufacturer’s instructions should always be reviewed to confirm that the selected SRL is suitable for the intended application and worksite conditions.
What matters most
Working near an exposed edge leaves no room for error. KStrong Brute Sharp Edge SRLs are designed for demanding edge-related applications, offering tested capability across webbing and wire-rope configurations. When the correct model is matched to the edge, anchorage position and available clearance—and used within its approved limits—the range supports a dependable and compliant approach to fall arrest near exposed edges.