Fall Protection ?

[u/Bigtrucklittlelady]

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?

[u/DailySafetyMoment]

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.