Rope Access Services

Passive fall protection and active fall protection are both systems designed to safeguard workers from falls, but they differ in how they operate and their level of user involvement.

Passive Fall Protection Definition: Passive fall protection refers to systems that do not require the user to take action or interact with the equipment to ensure safety. These systems are permanently in place and provide protection without the need for active participation. eg safety nets, fixed barriers, guard rails.

Active Fall Protection Definition: Active fall protection systems require the user to actively engage with the equipment to ensure their safety. This involves wearing and correctly using personal protective equipment (PPE) and following specific procedures. eg Rope access systems, personal fall arrest systems (harnesses, lanyards, and anchors).

Passive fall protection is considered safer and so preferable to active protection which requires individual action in order to protect him/herself, e.g. clipping on lanyards.

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) is the leading trade association and training body for the safety net rigging and temporary safety systems industry. FASET works together with its members to provide guidance and training to promote safer ways of working. The guidance provides good practices for contractors and provides understanding of the industry for clients. Members of FASET have undergone a rigorous application process and annual audit to ensure quality and commitment to safety and best standards are maintained. This audit process is now accredited by SSiP and is therefore mutually recognised with other health and safety assessment schemes.

As one of the UK leading suppliers of fall arrest systems G&M Safety Netting and G&M Safe Deck are full members of FASET and our directors serve on the board and have been active on various sub-committees over the years.