Safety rig combining harness, lanyard, and anchor point. Arrests a falling performer before impact. Standard requirement for elevated work and stunt sequences.
What is Fall Arrest?
Fall Arrest refers to safety systems for catching falls before a person reaches the ground. In film production, these systems protect stunt performers, actors, and crew when working at height.
System Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Harness | Worn on the body |
| Lanyard | Connection to anchor |
| Anchor Point | Fixed attachment |
| Shock Absorber | Impact damping |
| Connector | Carabiner, hook |
Types of Harnesses
| Type | Application |
|---|---|
| Full Body | Standard, best distribution |
| Chest Harness | Combined with seat |
| Stunt Harness | Hidden under costume |
| Flying Harness | For wire work |
Anchor Points
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Structural | Buildings, beams |
| Temporary | Installed on set |
| Mobile | Movable systems |
| Overhead | Rigging grid |
Fall Factors
| Fall Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Factor 0 | Anchor above person |
| Factor 1 | Anchor at head height |
| Factor 2 | Anchor below person |
Force Management
| Element | Function |
|---|---|
| Shock Absorber | Delayed stop |
| Energy Absorbing Lanyards | Absorb energy |
| Max. Force | <8 kN on body |
| Free Fall | Minimize |
Certifications
| Standard | Region |
|---|---|
| EN 361 | Europe Harness |
| EN 355 | Europe Absorber |
| ANSI Z359 | USA |
| OSHA | Workplace safety |
Inspection
| Element | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | Before each use |
| Documentation | Upon inspection |
| Replacement | After fall exposure |
| Annual Inspection | Professional |
Stunt-Specific Systems
| System | Application |
|---|---|
| Hidden Harness | Under costume |
| Quick Release | Fast detachment |
| Stunt Wire | For flights |
| Descender | Controlled descent |
Set Installation
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Risk Assessment | Hazard analysis |
| Anchor Selection | Check load capacity |
| System Setup | Installation |
| Testing | Before use |
| Briefing | Inform everyone |
Personnel
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Rigging Supervisor | System design |
| Safety Coordinator | Oversight |
| Stunt Coordinator | Performer safety |
| Qualified Person | Installation |
Rescue Plan
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Suspension Trauma | Time critical |
| Rescue Equipment | On standby |
| Trained Personnel | Present |
| Communication | Clearly defined |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Incorrect Anchor | System failure |
| Excessive Fall | Injury |
| Poor Inspection | Defects overlooked |
| Wrong Size | Ineffective |
Documentation
| Document | Content |
|---|---|
| Risk Assessment | Hazard analysis |
| Method Statement | Work procedure |
| Inspection Records | Inspection logs |
| Training Records | Qualifications |
Costs
| Element | Factor |
|---|---|
| Equipment | Quality is important |
| Installation | Skilled personnel |
| Inspection | Regularly |
| Training | All involved |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Always Backup | Redundancy |
| Training | Correct usage |
| Documentation | Traceability |
| Professional Systems | No improvisation |
Today
Fall arrest systems are indispensable for safe film production. From simple work at height to spectacular stunt sequences – professional fall protection enables creative freedom with controlled risk.
More in the lexikon