BS EN 795 and the 89/686/EEC directive (Information Sheet No 4)

One of the main causes of deaths and injuries at work each year is falling from height, particularly through or from roofs. To ensure safety during roof work and to maintain roof safety requires the commitment of all those involved in the procurement process to ensure that correct fall protection measures are used.

Where collective fall protection is not possible personal fall protection equipment must be used. However, many of these rely on horizontal safety lines fixed, using ‘top fix’ anchors, to the roof sheeting rather than through them to the roof support structure.

This has raised concerns about:

  • The horizontal safety line and anchor reliability;
  • The frequency of inspection;
  • The adequacy of testing; and
  • Their overall performance

Part 1 of this best practice guide addresses these issues and gives practical advice on what the ACR considers is ‘current best practice’ for the design, installation, commissioning, operation, use and maintenance of horizontal safety lines and single point anchors fixed or supported by ‘top fix’ brackets.

Part 2 is a material standard which addresses the performance issues and gives practical advice on what the ACR considers is ‘current best practice’ for the testing of roof anchors on roof systems.

ACR Information sheet No 4 provides information in regard to the current issues surrounding the relationship between BS EN 795 and the European PPE Directive 89/686/EEC.

Download Part 1 PDF here

Download Part 2 PDF here

Download Information Sheet No 4 PDF here

Please note: The MCRMA contact details at the back of Parts 1 and 2 are incorrect and should read as follows:

MCRMA
106 Ruskin Avenue
Rogerstone
Newport
NP10 0BD
Tel: 01633 895633
Contact: Mr C Jones