Lifelines help protect workers from the dangers of falling, and they come in various types, each designed for specific scenarios. Understanding the different types of lifelines is essential for choosing the right one for the job and more importantly, for keeping workers safe.

In this article, we will break down the main types of lifelines you’ll encounter in the world of fall protection.

What Is a Lifeline?

A lifeline is a safety device used to prevent falls when working at height. It consists of a rope or cable that a worker attaches to their harness, which is then anchored to a secure point, such as a structure or beam. The lifeline serves as a backup, catching a worker if they fall and preventing serious injuries.

• Horizontal Lifelines

Horizontal lifelines are the most common type of lifeline, and they’re designed to run horizontally across an area. This type of lifeline is ideal for situations where a worker needs to move across a large area, such as a roof or a bridge. Horizontal lifelines allow the worker to move freely along the length of the line, but they still provide fall protection at all times.

How It Works: The lifeline is anchored at both ends, creating a secure route for workers to walk along. A specialised rope grab or trolley attaches to the lifeline and moves with the worker as they move. If the worker were to fall, the rope grab would lock onto the line and stop the fall.

Best Use: Horizontal lifelines are perfect for tasks like roofing, scaffolding, or construction where workers need to move across open areas. They offer a good balance of mobility and fall protection.

• Vertical Lifelines

Vertical lifelines, as the name suggests, run vertically. These are commonly used in situations where workers are climbing, such as on tall structures, towers, or even for window washers on skyscrapers. Vertical lifelines typically involve a rope or cable that runs up the structure, allowing workers to ascend or descend safely.

How It Works: In this setup, the worker uses a rope grab or self-locking device that moves with them as they climb. If the worker falls, the rope grab will automatically lock onto the rope, preventing the fall.

Best Use: Vertical lifelines are perfect for workers who need to climb up or down large structures, like towers, utility poles, or even when working with ladders. They are essential for those working at great heights where climbing is involved.

• Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs)

Self-retracting lifelines are an advanced type of lifeline that provides additional safety features. These lifelines automatically retract and extend as the worker moves, keeping the lifeline taut at all times. SRLs are especially useful in environments where a worker needs to move around freely but still requires fall protection.

How It Works: The SRL is attached to a secure anchorage point, and the worker wears a harness with a lanyard attached to the SRL. As the worker moves, the SRL extends and retracts accordingly, allowing for free movement.

Best Use: SRLs are great for jobs that involve movement and a high degree of flexibility, such as working on roofs, steel beams, or when accessing hard-to-reach areas.

• Rope and Cable Lifelines

When it comes to materials, lifelines typically come in two main types: rope and cable. Both materials have their advantages, but they’re used in different applications.

Rope Lifelines – These are made of durable, high-strength fibers and are often used for horizontal or vertical applications. Rope lifelines are flexible, easy to handle, and ideal for environments where workers need to move or climb freely. They’re also lightweight, which makes them easier to carry and set up.

Cable Lifelines – Cable lifelines, on the other hand, are made from steel or other high-strength materials and are incredibly durable. They’re typically used in vertical applications and are more resistant to environmental wear and tear. Cable lifelines are heavier than rope lifelines but are highly reliable for heavy-duty applications.

Best Use: Rope lifelines are typically used for more flexible, moderate-risk tasks, while cable lifelines are best for high-risk environments where durability and strength are the top priority.

At Phakimisa, we strive to keep our staff highly motivated and up to date on all the developments, requirements, and changes that occur in the industry, as they are the key to manufacturing our quality slings and products. These are just some of the many products and services we offer:

Webbing Slings, Endless Round Slings, Chain Slings, Steel Wire Rope Slings Spreader Beams, Steel wire rope, Manilla rope, Chain, Lever Hoists, Chain Blocks, Tie-down straps, Ratchets, Load binders, Tirfors, Tiraks, Hydraulic jacks, Safety Harnesses, Fall arrestors, Drum Lifters, Manhole Lifting Systems, Plate Grabs, Shackles, Grab Hooks, Turnbuckles, Eyebolts, Sockets.