Systems
Systems
Vertical fall arrest system
Vertical fall arrest systems provide a secure alternative to traditional access solutions such as roof ladders and tower systems, providing users with continuous fall protection when working on or accessing vertical ladders.
The user, equipped with a suitable harness, is directly connected to the fall arrest cable, which is integrated into the access ladder using vertical brackets.
A shuttle fitted with an energy absorber follows the user as they move up and down the ladder, allowing freedom of movement while remaining connected to the system. In the event of a slip or fall, the shuttle locks onto the cable to help arrest the fall.
Vertical fall arrest systems can be designed to suit a range of ladder configurations and structures, providing a practical and unobtrusive solution where safe vertical access is required.
Looking for a vertical fall arrest system for your project? Talk to the NZ Access team on 0800 083 348 or get in touch via our contact page.
Advantages of Vertical Fall Arrest Systems
Advantages of Vertical Fall Arrest Systems
Vertical fall arrest systems provide a secure and practical way to protect workers when climbing fixed ladders. Designed to follow the user's movement, they allow workers to ascend and descend while remaining connected to a dedicated fall protection system.
- Ergonomic Design – Designed to support comfortable and efficient movement when climbing vertical ladders.
- Intuitive Operation – The travelling shuttle follows the user along the cable, allowing straightforward use when the system is correctly fitted and operated.
- Multiple User Capacity – Depending on the system design, selected configurations can accommodate one to four users in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
- Hands-Free Climbing – Allows workers to maintain their grip on the ladder while remaining connected to the fall protection system.
- Continuous Attachment – Provides ongoing connection to the system throughout the climb when used with compatible equipment.
- Durable Components – Selected systems incorporate stainless steel components for long-term performance in demanding environments.
- Retrofit Capability – Systems can be fitted to suitable existing ladders and structures, subject to assessment of the ladder, structure and fixing requirements.
- Custom Engineering Options – NZ Access can work with its engineering partners to develop solutions for specific ladder configurations and site requirements.
Applications of Vertical Fall Arrest Systems
Applications of Vertical Fall Arrest Systems
Vertical fall arrest systems are designed for fixed ladder access where workers need to climb safely between different levels. They are suitable for a range of industrial, infrastructure, utility and specialist access environments where conventional ladder access requires additional fall protection.
- Silo & Tank Ladders – Supports protected access for inspection, cleaning and maintenance of silos, storage tanks and processing vessels.
- Reservoir & Water Infrastructure Ladders – Provides fall protection when accessing reservoirs, water treatment assets and other utility structures.
- Roof & Building Ladders – Protects workers climbing fixed ladders to reach rooftops, elevated platforms and building service areas.
- Tower Ladders – Provides fall protection for access to communication towers, training towers and other elevated structures.
- Wind Turbine Ladders – Supports protected climbing access within wind towers for inspection and maintenance activities.
- Hydro & Energy Infrastructure – Suitable for fixed ladder access on hydro assets and other energy infrastructure.
- Ski Lift Access – Can be configured for suitable ladder access associated with ski lift infrastructure.
- Crane Ladders – Provides a dedicated fall protection system for climbing compatible fixed ladders on cranes and lifting structures.
- Industrial & Utility Access – Supports routine inspection, servicing and maintenance where fixed vertical ladder access is required.
The appropriate system depends on the ladder design, mounting arrangement, structural capacity, access conditions and number of users. NZ Access can help assess these factors and identify a suitable vertical fall arrest solution for your site.
