When work at height cannot be avoided, every person involved needs protection against the risk of a fall.
A self-retracting lanyard (SRL) is one of the fall arrest devices used to provide that protection, engaging automatically to stop a fall the moment it starts.
This guide covers how a self-retracting lanyard works, its main components, when to use one and how it compares with other fall arrest equipment, as part of Metreel’s wider range of fall protection systems and equipment.
How A Self-Retracting Lanyard Works
A self-retracting lanyard connects a worker’s harness to a fixed anchor point using a retractable line, similar in principle to a seatbelt. During normal movement, the line extends and retracts freely, allowing the worker to move around without slack building up or the line trailing underfoot.
If a fall occurs, an internal braking system detects the sudden increase in speed and locks the line within a short distance, typically well under a metre depending on the model. This limits both the length of the fall and the force transferred to the worker’s body compared with a fixed-length lanyard, where the full length of the line plays out before the fall is arrested.
Key Components
Anchorage connection
Attaches the unit to a fixed structural anchor point rated to withstand fall arrest forces.
Braking system
The internal mechanism that detects a fall and locks the line, arresting the fall within a set distance.
Retracting mechanism and casing
Keeps the line under tension and free of slack during normal movement, housed in a protective casing suited to the working environment.
Lanyard line
Made from webbing or wire rope depending on the application, connecting the retracting mechanism to the worker.
Snap hook or carabiner
Connects the lanyard line to the harness attachment point, usually a dorsal D-ring.
Impact indicator
A visual marker that shows if the unit has arrested a fall, so it can be identified and taken out of service for inspection.
Manufacturer and compliance information
Confirms the unit meets the relevant safety standards (i.e. EN 360 in the UK) and provides model and service details.
When To Use A Self-Retracting Lanyard
Whether an SRL is required depends on a site specific health and safety assessment, but they are commonly specified for work involving aerial lifts, tower climbing, scaffolding and roof work, where a trip or slip could result in a fall.
An SRL is particularly suited to applications where the fall distance needs to be minimised, since restricting the fall reduces the risk of impact with the ground or with nearby structures. It also suits tasks where a worker needs freedom of movement across a wider area than a fixed-length lanyard would comfortably allow, since the retracting line takes up slack automatically as the worker moves.
Self-Retracting Lanyard vs Other Fall Arrest Options
A self-retracting lanyard is not the only option for fall arrest, and the right choice depends on the application.
Shock-absorbing lanyards use a fixed length of webbing with a built-in energy absorber. They are simpler and generally lower cost, but allow a longer fall distance before arrest and require more clearance below the working position.
Vertical lifeline systems run the full height of a structure, allowing a worker to move up and down while remaining connected, and suit tasks like tower or mast climbing over longer vertical distances.
An SRL sits between the two, offering a shorter arrest distance than a shock-absorbing lanyard while allowing more freedom of movement than a fixed connection point.
Benefits Of A Self-Retracting Lanyard
- Rapid engagement of the braking system limits fall distance and reduces impact force
- Line stays taut during normal movement, reducing the risk of tripping or swing hazards
- Allows freer movement than a fixed-length lanyard across a wider working area
- Built to withstand a range of industrial environments
- Available in multiple lengths and line materials to suit different applications
Choosing The Right Self-Retracting Lanyard
Selecting the right SRL depends on a few key factors: the required working length, the height and rating of the available anchor point, the weight of the worker plus equipment, and whether the environment calls for webbing or wire rope line. A site specific risk assessment should confirm these requirements before equipment is selected.
Self-Retracting Lanyard FAQs
What’s The Difference Between A Self-Retracting Lanyard And A Shock-Absorbing Lanyard?
A self-retracting lanyard locks automatically within a short distance if a fall occurs, while a shock-absorbing lanyard is a fixed length that allows a longer fall before an energy absorber deploys.
How Far Does A Self-Retracting Lanyard Let You Fall?
Arrest distance depends on the model, but SRLs are designed to lock within a short distance, typically under a metre, compared with several metres for a fixed-length lanyard.
Can A Self-Retracting Lanyard Be Reused After A Fall?
No. Once a unit has arrested a fall, the impact indicator will show this and the lanyard must be removed from service and inspected or replaced.
Discover Our Fall Arrest & Fall Protection Products
If your operations involve working at height, Metreel supplies a range of fall arrest and fall protection products across a variety of industries. View the full range of products and specifications by downloading the free Metreel brochure.
For questions about purchasing Metreel fall protection or fall arrest systems, call us on 0115 932 7010 or drop us a message and we’ll be in touch shortly.