EN360 – Retractable Fall Arresters

The Latest Version of EN360

The latest version of the EN360 standard is EN 360:2023, which replaces the previous edition, EN 360:2002. This updated standard is part of the European Union’s Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulation (EU 2016/425) and focuses on retractable fall arresters used in fall protection systems.

Products Applicable to EN360

EN360 applies to retractable fall arresters (RFAs), which are a critical component of fall protection systems. These devices are designed to automatically retract a safety line or rope while allowing the user to move freely, and they lock instantly in the event of a fall. Key applications include:

1. Vertical applications: Used in construction, maintenance, and wind turbine.
2. Horizontal applications: Integrated into horizontal lifelines for lateral movement.
3. High-risk environments: Such as offshore platforms, chemical plants, and warehouses.

The standard does not apply to RFAs used for sports or recreational activities.

Specific Contents of EN360

The EN360:2023 standard specifies the following key requirements:

1. Design and Material Requirements:
   • RFAs must be made of high-strength, corrosion-resistant materials.
   • The device must ensure the safety line retracts smoothly and locks reliably during a fall.
   • The maximum stopping force on the user must not exceed 6 kN during dynamic testing.
2. Performance Requirements:
   • Dynamic performance: Must arrest a fall within a specified distance (e.g., ≤2 meters) and limit the force on the user to ≤6 kN.
   • Static strength: Must withstand a static load of 15 kN for at least 3 minutes without failure.
   • Environmental resistance: Must perform reliably under extreme conditions, such as high and low temperatures, humidity, and UV exposure.
3. Labeling and Information:
   • Products must include the manufacturer’s name, batch number, EN 360 reference, and CE marking with a four-digit identification number.

Test Methods for EN360

The EN360:2023 standard specifies the following test methods:

1. Dynamic Performance Test:
   • Simulates a fall by dropping a test mass of 100 kg from a height. The RFA must arrest the fall and ensure the force on the user does not exceed 6 kN.
2. Static Strength Test:
   • Applies a static load of 15 kN for 3 minutes to verify the product’s breaking strength.
3. Environmental Resistance Test:
   • Tests performance under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures (50°C), low temperatures (-30°C), and humidity (85% RH). Optional tests include exposure to diesel fuel and dust.
4. Corrosion Resistance Test:
   • Metallic components must undergo a neutral salt-spray test for 48 hours to assess resistance to corrosion.
5. Durability Test:
   • Evaluates performance after repeated use, ensuring no significant degradation in function.

Notes on EN360

1. Standard Update: EN 360:2023 introduces stricter requirements for dynamic performance, environmental resistance, and corrosion protection compared to the 2002 edition.
2. Compliance with PPE Regulation: Products must comply with the EU PPE Regulation (EU 2016/425) and undergo testing by a notified body for CE marking.
3. User Safety: Regular inspection and proper use of EN360-compliant RFAs are critical to ensure their effectiveness in fall protection scenarios.
4. Integration with Other Standards: RFAs must be used with other compliant components, such as EN 361 safety harnesses and EN 362 connectors, to form a complete fall protection system.