The anchor point is a key element for safety during work at height. It makes it possible to attach fall-arrest equipment and protects operators in sectors such as construction, industry or logistics. This device forms part of personal protection systems to limit the risk of falling and guarantee the safety of on-site teams.
What standards apply to anchor points?
Anchor points must meet precise standards to guarantee user safety in professional environments. Here are the main standards to know:
EN 795: performance and resistance requirements for temporary and permanent anchor points.
CEN/TS 16415: specifications for anchor points designed for several simultaneous users.
EN 365: general requirements for the maintenance, storage and inspection of fall-arrest equipment, including anchor points.
EN 353-1/2: governs mobile fall-arrest systems on an anchor support.
Meeting these standards makes it possible to select devices suited to every use and to guarantee a high level of safety.
What types of anchor point are there, and for which sectors?
Different types of anchor point exist to meet the needs of every sector:
Fixed anchor points: permanently installed on structures, suited to industry, maintenance or roofs.
Temporary anchor points: mobile, recommended for construction sites or occasional interventions.
Lifelines: horizontal or vertical systems for mobility over large areas.
Anchor carabiners: to quickly connect equipment to an anchor point, used in logistics or on scaffolding.
For an overview of professional fall-protection solutions, see our online catalogue.
How should anchor points be maintained?
Maintaining anchor points is essential to guarantee their reliability and user safety:
Cleaning: remove dust, dirt or corrosion with a soft cloth and suitable products.
Storage: keep devices in a dry place, away from moisture and chemical agents.
Regular checks: visually inspect the general condition, the fastening and the absence of cracks or deformation before each use.
Replacement: change the anchor point in the event of a fall, significant wear or when the expiry date indicated by the manufacturer is reached.
Rigorous monitoring extends the equipment's lifespan and optimises safety on site.
What specific points should be considered for anchor points?
Choosing an anchor point should take several technical and contextual criteria into account: compatibility with other fall-arrest equipment, corrosion resistance, capacity to support one or more users, and suitability for the environment (indoor, outdoor, exposure to chemical agents or extreme temperatures). It is also important to check ease of installation and the possibility of integration with fall-arrest safety harnesses or fall-arrest lanyards. Regular checks and traceability of interventions are essential to guarantee the safety and compliance of installations over time.