Active vs Passive Fall Protection Systems: What You Need to Know

At Height Works Ltd., we understand that working at height is more than a routine—it’s a risk that demands respect. Across Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba, companies rely on us to deliver certified, engineered fall protection systems that ensure safety, compliance, and confidence on every jobsite.

With fall-related injuries and fatalities still too common, understanding the difference between active and passive protection systems is critical for creating safer worksites.

🔍 What Is Fall Protection?

As outlined in Canadian OH&S regulations and CSA Z259 standards, fall protection is required when workers operate at:

• 4 feet or higher in general industry
  
  

• 6 feet or higher in construction
  
  

A fall protection system ensures workers are:

• Prevented from falling (passive)
  
  

• Stopped safely if they fall (active)
  
  

We help our clients implement both—tailored to the structure, use case, and regional safety standards.

🧰 Understanding the Systems: Active vs Passive

🟩 Passive Fall Protection (Fall Prevention Systems)

These are built-in safety features—no special training or interaction needed:

• Guardrails
  
  

• Skylight screens
  
  

• Roof hatch barriers
  
  

• Walkways & crossover platforms
  
  

🛠 Best for: Rooftops, commercial facilities, long-term installations

🟦 Active Fall Protection (Fall Restraint & Arrest)

These systems require worker engagement (harnesses, anchors, lifelines) and must be used with training:

• Fall restraint systems prevent reaching an edge
  
  

• Fall arrest systems stop a fall once it occurs
  
  

🎓 Best for: Construction, industrial maintenance, energy sectors

🧩 Fall Protection Systems by Type

✅  Guardrails

Quick-to-install, non-penetrating options available. Ideal for commercial rooftops, mechanical service areas, and temporary worksites.

✅  Access Platforms

Permanent or modular systems (walkways, catwalks, crossover bridges) to keep teams secure as they move through elevated workspaces.

✅  Cable-Based Lifelines

Horizontal or vertical systems offering continuous tie-off. Flexible for crane rails, rooftops, and rigging applications.

✅  Rigid Rail Systems

Excellent for short-fall arrest in high-risk applications like rail yards, transportation bays, or aircraft maintenance.

✅  Skylight & Hatch Kits

OSHA considers these rooftop features as “open holes.” We install barrier kits to eliminate risks.

✅  Portable Fall Protection

Fully mobile ladders, stairs, and anchor systems. Ideal for seasonal or shifting jobsites.

🔧 Choosing the Right System

We guide your decision based on:

• Fall clearance requirements
  
  

• Worker movement (static vs mobile tasks)
  
  

• Frequency of work at height
  
  

• Permanence of the system
  
  

• Budget and maintenance needs
  
  

🏢 Western Canada’s Trusted Partner in Height Safety

Height Works Ltd. proudly serves Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba with:

• Fall protection system design
  
  

• Inspection & recertification
  
  

• Safety audits
  
  

• Site-specific consultation
  
  

• CSA-compliant installation and servicing
  
  

We’re not just a supplier—we’re your partner in risk mitigation.

📞 Let’s Build a Safer Workplace Together

Whether your site requires custom-engineered guardrails, lifeline systems, or a comprehensive safety audit, we’re ready to support your goals.

📲 Call 1-877-361-2565 or visit HeightWorks.ca

🔍 Proudly Western Canadian. Certified. Committed.