What is the Difference Between an Energy-Absorbing Lanyard and an SRL?

  Understanding Fall Protection Equipment  

Keeping workers safe is crucial—especially when there’s a high risk of falls. 

A fall arrest system is designed to prevent serious injury by stopping a person before they hit the ground in the event of a fall. Two common types of fall protection equipment are the energy-absorbing lanyard and the self-retracting lifeline (SRL). Both tools help protect workers from serious injuries. However, they work in different ways depending on application criteria. Choosing the right one depends on the job, the height, and the kind of work being done. 

Knowing the difference between an energy-absorbing lanyard and an SRL is key to helping safety professionals pick the right one for the job.

What is an Energy-Absorbing Lanyard?

An energy-absorbing lanyard (also called a “shock-absorbing lanyard”) is a type of fall protection lanyard that connects a worker's safety harness to a strong anchor point. It has a special part called a shock absorber that stretches during a fall. This helps slow a fall and reduce the force on a falling worker.

An energy-absorbing lanyard stretches when a worker falls. This slow stretch helps protect the worker's body by lessening the fall’s momentum. These lanyards are often used on jobs like roofing, towers, or construction, where there is lots of space below the worker.

What is a Self-Retracting Lifeline?

A self-retracting lifeline works like a seatbelt in a car. It lets the worker move around freely while keeping the line tight. If the worker falls, the SRL quickly locks up and stops the fall almost immediately.

This quick stop makes it safer for places with little room to fall. SRLs also help workers move around more easily. They are good for jobs in warehouses, confined work areas, and when workers frequently climb up and down.

  Key Differences Between Energy-Absorbing Lanyards & SRLs  

One big difference between an energy-absorbing lanyard and an SRL is how far a worker falls. Energy-absorbing lanyards stretch during a fall, so the worker needs more space below them. SRLs stop the fall very quickly, so less space is needed.

Another difference is how much a worker can move. Lanyards are one set length, so workers can't move far without unhooking. SRLs go in and out as the worker moves, which makes it easier to move around.

Where you work also matters. Use lanyards in open areas where there is a lot of space below. Consider SRLs in tight spots or when you can't fall very far.

Safety rules also matter. OSHA and ANSI regulations determine how these tools must work, helping ensure workers stay safe.

Taking care of the gear is important too. Check lanyards for rips, cuts, or a used-up shock absorber. For SRLs, make sure the line moves in and out smoothly and locks when pulled fast. Replace anything that looks old or broken.

  Choosing the Right Option for Your Worksite  

When to Use an Energy-Absorbing Lanyard

Use an energy-absorbing lanyard when you're working high up and have plenty of space below. Jobs like roofing, tower climbing, or building steel frames are good examples. Lanyards are also useful for restricting the worker’s movement to a safely designated area.

These lanyards are simple to use and don’t cost too much. But they might not be optimal when you can't afford a long fall.

When to Use an SRL

Use an SRL when working in a place with low fall space or where you need to move around a lot.

They stop falls quickly and help you work safely in places like warehouses, factories, or small spaces. They cost more, but they are great for safety and movement.

  OSHA and ANSI Compliance for Lanyards and SRLs  

Fall protection equipment must follow rules from OSHA and ANSI. These rules say how much fall space you need and how the tools should work. Energy-absorbing lanyards usually need substantial space to stop a fall safely. A comparable SRL needs much less.

These rules help keep workers safe and stop companies from getting fined. It’s also important that workers know how to use their gear the right way.

  Proper Maintenance & Inspection Guidelines  

To keep any fall arrest system working well, you need to take care of it. Before each use, look at your energy-absorbing lanyard. Check for cuts, broken stitches, or a shock absorber that has already been used.

For SRLs, make sure the line moves in and out smoothly. Pull the line fast to see if it locks up like it should. If it doesn’t work correctly, stop using it. Always follow the maker's instructions for how often to check and replace your gear.

  Making the Right Choice: A Quick Decision Guide  

Final Considerations:

• Always assess the fall clearance available on-site.
• Consider the frequency of movement and worker comfort.
• Regularly inspect all equipment, regardless of type, to ensure it meets safety standards.

Understanding the difference between an energy-absorbing lanyard and an SRL helps you make smart choices and keeps everyone safe on the job.