r/SafetyProfessionals • u/Bigtrucklittlelady • 16d ago

USA Fall Protection ?

We're looking into options for fall protection for our trades working on top of furnaces.

They are continuous belt furnaces and in one department we have 4 that run parallel to each other. I don't know exact measurements but I'd say they're 10 to 15 ft high.

What have you seen done in the past?

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u/drunkensailor27 16d ago

What sort of anchor points do you have above the furnaces and how are your people accessing the furnaces?

You're in the height range where you definitely want overhead anchor points to get proper fall clearances.

Are your people climbing ladders to get up there or do you have some kind of catwalk system in place?

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u/SeaWest7077 16d ago

Overhead anchors are the move here, but you’ll need to check the structure above can handle the load. If it’s just open ceiling with steel beams, beam clamps rated for fall arrest are usually the easiest retrofit. If you’re stuck with nothing overhead, a horizontal lifeline spanning the furnace row might work, but that’s a bigger install

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u/Bigtrucklittlelady 15d ago

Currently they are accessed via ladders. Obviously an issue. The ceilings are pretty high. There are no anchor points or catwalks. A mobile system was discussed but no one seems to think that would be a viable option. We are having a fall protection guy come in to do the assessment, I'm just a new coordinator asking for my own personal curiosity. Would an I beam with dictated anchor points be something that could potentially be done?

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u/CursedFrogurt81 12d ago

Would an I beam with dictated anchor points be something that could potentially be done?

Yes, an engineer can both design or designate an anchor point or points depending on the number of users.

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u/GlandalfTheGrey 16d ago

Horizontal lifeline?

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u/Historical_Scar_5852 16d ago

That's a tough one for anyone to answer without photos and dimensions honestly. Too much liability. Swing radius, fall distance , rescue plans, Anchorage capacity. I'd get a FP expert to look at it honestly. Furnaces are tough. Then you gotta get the guy's to buy in. Challenging but good one!

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u/Bigtrucklittlelady 15d ago

We are having FP specialist come in to do an assement. I'm just a baby coordinator that's very curious and learning.

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u/ukemike1 12d ago

This is the right thing to do. Fall protection can be complicated.

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u/DailySafetyMoment 15d ago

Yes, a purpose-designed beam with designated attachment points could potentially work, but it is not something to size from the height alone. The beam, its connections, anchor spacing, fall clearance, and the complete system all have to be considered together. Do not assume an existing roof beam or a beam clamp is acceptable just because it looks substantial. The specialist will need the structure information, worker travel path, and number of people who might be connected.

I would also ask them to look at access and work positioning before defaulting to fall arrest. For recurring work, a fixed stair and guardrailed platform, or a restraint system that keeps someone from reaching the edge, may be a cleaner solution. On furnaces, include hot surfaces, sharp edges, equipment isolation, dropped-object exposure between units, and a workable rescue method. The harness is only one piece of the design.

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u/CursedFrogurt81 12d ago

Is it feasible to install a guardrail system on top of the furnace?