What are the four components of a PFAS?

PFAS, Defined

A Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) stops a fall in progress and limits the forces on the worker and the structure. A complete PFAS has four parts—often called the “ABCDs” of fall protection: Anchor, Body Support, Connector, and Descent/Rescue.

A — Anchorage

The anchor is the secure attachment point for the system. It must be selected and installed for the substrate (wood, concrete, metal, structural steel) and the task at hand. Many applications require anchors capable of resisting at least 5,000 lb per attached worker or designed with a safety factor by a qualified person, per prevailing standards and employer policies.

• See anchors for wood, concrete, and metal roofs: Shop Anchors

B — Body Support

A full-body harness distributes arrest forces across the thighs, pelvis, chest, and shoulders, and provides D-ring attachment points for fall arrest, positioning, and rescue. Proper sizing, adjustment, and inspection are critical to performance.

• Explore construction, utility, and specialty harnesses: Shop Harnesses

C — Connection

Connectors link the harness to the anchorage. Choose based on fall clearance, mobility needs, and environment:

• Shock-absorbing lanyards to reduce arrest forces and maintain safe total fall distances.
• Self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) to minimize free-fall distance and lock within inches while allowing movement.

Shop connectors: Lanyards · SRLs

D — Descent & Rescue

A PFAS isn’t complete without a prompt, planned method to recover the worker after a fall. Controlled-descent devices and rescue kits enable assisted or self-rescue based on site conditions and training.

• Find controlled-descent devices and rescue kits: Descent & Rescue

Selecting & Using PFAS Components

• Hazard assessment first: Identify edges, openings, leading-edge exposures, swing-fall hazards, and anchor options.
• Match gear to the job: Choose anchors for the substrate, connectors for required mobility, and harness features for task ergonomics.
• Calculate clearance: Ensure adequate fall clearance for the chosen connector (lanyard vs. SRL), including deceleration distance and stretch.
• Plan rescue: Define who, what, and how for prompt retrieval; stage gear where it will be used.

Want a fast start? Fall Protection Kits simplify component selection and compatibility.

Inspection, Maintenance & Training

• Pre-use checks: Verify webbing, stitching, hardware, labels, and dates. Remove damaged gear from service immediately.
• Scheduled inspections: Follow manufacturer intervals and your safety program for competent-person inspections and documentation.
• Storage & care: Keep equipment clean, dry, and away from chemicals and UV exposure; follow manufacturer service life guidance.
• Training & refreshers: Ensure workers understand selection, fitting, tie-off techniques, clearance, and rescue procedures.

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