What Is EN 795? Anchorage Point Standard and Safe Lifeline Systems
What Is EN 795?
The safety of fall protection systems used for work at height is not limited to safety harnesses or lanyards. One of the most critical components of the system is the anchorage point, where the forces generated during a fall are transferred to the supporting structure. For this reason, the reliability and correct selection of anchorage systems are extremely important. In Europe, the main requirements for these systems are defined by the EN 795 standard.
EN 795 is a European standard covering the design, performance, testing methods, and safety requirements of anchorage devices used in personal fall protection systems. A correctly selected and properly installed anchorage system helps transfer the forces generated during a fall to a suitable supporting structure.
Purpose of the EN 795 Standard
The main purpose of the EN 795 standard is to ensure that anchorage devices and systems to which workers can safely connect meet defined performance and safety requirements.
Under the applicable requirements, anchorage systems are designed to:
- Provide a secure connection point.
- Help withstand and transfer forces generated during a fall.
- Improve the reliability of a fall protection system.
- Provide solutions suitable for different working environments.
- Undergo specified testing procedures.
What Is an Anchorage Point?
An anchorage point is a secure fixing point to which a safety harness and connecting equipment can be attached.
Depending on the application, an anchorage point may be installed on or connected to:
- Structural steel components
- Concrete structures
- Roof systems
- Lifeline systems
- Specialized anchorage devices
The anchorage should be selected and installed following an appropriate structural and engineering assessment.
Incorrect selection or installation of an anchorage point can prevent even high-quality fall protection equipment from functioning as intended.
EN 795 Anchorage Types
The EN 795 standard covers different types of anchorage devices designed for specific applications.
Type A
Fixed anchorage devices designed to be permanently attached to suitable structures such as concrete or steel.
Type B
Temporary or transportable anchorage devices designed for applications where a permanent anchorage installation is not required.
Type C
Horizontal flexible lifeline systems that allow users to move along a defined lifeline while remaining connected to the fall protection system.
Type D
Horizontal rigid lifeline systems using a rigid anchor line or rail with a traveling attachment device.
Type E
Deadweight anchorage devices designed for use on suitable horizontal surfaces, commonly associated with flat roof applications.
The suitability of a particular anchorage type depends on the application, structure, installation conditions, and manufacturer's instructions.
Where Is EN 795 Equipment Used?
Anchorage systems designed in accordance with applicable EN 795 requirements are used in many industries where fall protection is required.
Common applications include:
- Construction projects
- Roof maintenance
- Solar power plants
- Wind turbines
- Factories
- Industrial facilities
- Ports
- Shipyards
- Power transmission infrastructure
- Telecommunications infrastructure
- Steel structure installation
- Warehouses and logistics facilities
- Bridge maintenance
The anchorage system should always be selected according to the specific working environment and fall protection requirements.
Equipment Used with EN 795 Anchorage Systems
An anchorage system is not, by itself, a complete fall protection system.
Depending on the application, it may be used together with compatible equipment such as:
- EN 361 Full Body Safety Harness
- EN 355 Energy-Absorbing Lanyard
- EN 354 Lanyard
- EN 362 Connectors
- EN 360 Self-Retracting Fall Arrester
Compatibility between all components of the personal fall protection system is essential for safe use.
What Should You Consider When Choosing an Anchorage Point?
Selecting the correct anchorage system is an important part of working-at-height safety. The following factors should be evaluated.
Structural Strength
The structure to which the anchorage is attached must have adequate load-bearing capacity and suitability for the intended application.
Intended Use
The appropriate anchorage type should be selected according to whether the system is intended for temporary or permanent use.
Number of Users
The permitted number of users and the system's rated capacity must be taken into consideration.
Working Area
The appropriate solution should be selected according to whether the application involves a roof, vertical surface, rigid rail system, or horizontal lifeline.
Certification and Compliance
The anchorage equipment should be verified as complying with the applicable standards, product specifications, and installation requirements.
Periodic Inspection of Anchorage Systems
Anchorage systems should be inspected at appropriate intervals to help ensure continued safe operation.
During an inspection, the following components should be carefully examined:
- Anchorage points
- Bolts and fasteners
- Welded areas
- Lifeline or rail systems
- Signs of corrosion
- Mechanical deformation
- Product labels and markings
Periodic inspections should be carried out by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and applicable requirements.
Importance of the EN 795 Standard
Working at height safety depends on the correct interaction of all components within a fall protection system.
If the anchorage system is not reliable or is incorrectly selected or installed, the safety harness and other fall protection equipment may not function as intended.
For this reason, properly selected, correctly installed, and regularly inspected anchorage systems are fundamental components of an effective fall protection and working-at-height safety system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the EN 795 standard cover?
The EN 795 standard covers requirements for anchorage devices used as components of personal fall protection systems.
Why is an anchorage point important?
An anchorage point provides a secure connection for fall protection equipment and helps transfer forces generated during a fall to a suitable supporting structure.
How many anchorage types are covered by EN 795?
EN 795 covers different anchorage device types, commonly identified as Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, and Type E, depending on their design and intended application.
Should anchorage systems be inspected periodically?
Yes. Anchorage systems should be inspected at appropriate intervals by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and applicable requirements.
What equipment can be used with EN 795 anchorage systems?
Depending on the application, EN 795 anchorage systems may be used with compatible equipment such as an EN 361 full body safety harness, EN 355 energy-absorbing lanyard, EN 354 lanyard, EN 362 connectors, and EN 360 self-retracting fall arrester.
Why is correct anchorage selection important?
Correct anchorage selection helps ensure that the complete personal fall protection system is compatible with the working environment, supporting structure, and intended application. Proper selection and installation are therefore essential for effective fall protection and work at height safety.
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