Rigid Rail vs. Wire Rope

Tether Track™ Rigid Rail Fall Arrest Systems provide shorter free-fall distances, reduced risk of secondary fall injuries such as swinging into obstacles, and no negative impact on a second worker in the event of a fall.

Why choose a Rigid Rail Fall Arrest System over a Wire Rope system?  SAFETY!

 - Less fall clearance distance 
 - Reduced risk of swing injuries 
 - Longer distance between supports 
 - Continued use after a fall with visual inspection, where wire rope systems must be replaced

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Less Fall Clearance Distance-  Wire rope systems require additional fall clearance due to the initial sag of the wire.  The dynamic sag, or the stretch of the rope during a fall, adds to this distance.  A rigid rail fall arrest system stops the fall sooner by eliminating any sag, stopping the fall in a much shorter distance than the wire rope.

Reduced Risk of Swing Fall Injuries- Injuries occurring after the fall, such as swinging into obstacles, are minimized with a rigid rail fall arrest system, which stays firm and minimizes the total fall distance. When a worker falls on a wire rope system, the wire’s sag will make the trolley slide to the center of the nearest two supports, creating a risk for the worker to collide with nearby obstacles after a fall.

Longer Distances Between Supports- A rigid rail fall arrest system allows for longer distances between supports, reducing both material and installation costs.  

After a Fall- The worker can continue use of a rigid rail fall arrest system after a visual inspection.  A wire rope system must be replaced and recertified by a qualified engineer.