Ergonomics of PPE for work at height

Ergonomics is a topic that is often overlooked when designing fall protection systems.
However, it is a requirement explicitly included in regulations and standards governing personal protective equipment (PPE).

Although ergonomics should always be considered, its importance increases significantly as the frequency of system use increases.

In systems with occasional access, the use of the system may involve longer operating times and less comfortable, and therefore more economical, equipment.

Conversely, systems intended for frequent access must be assessed with particular attention to operating time and ergonomics, even if this entails the adoption of more costly solutions.

In any case, ergonomics should always be taken into account in order to encourage operators to actually use the systems, as equipment that is easy to use is more readily accepted by workers.

To prioritise ergonomics and ease of use, the following recommendations should be considered:

• use of collective protection systems that prevent access to fall-risk areas and do not require any active involvement by the operator;
• use of rigid rail systems instead of cable systems, without interruptions, equipped with a sliding trolley;
• use of cable systems rather than single anchorage points, with pass-through intermediates or, preferably, with a trolley that allows passing intermediate supports without connecting and disconnecting;
• where possible, reduce the number of PPE components required for system use, in order to avoid frequent changes by the operator;
• where possible, clearly mark the presence of fall protection systems, prevent potential tripping hazards and install anchorage points at a comfortable height for connection.