Understanding Diversion Anchor Points

Reducing the Risk of Pendulum Falls with Diversion Anchor Points

Working at heights requires meticulous attention to safety, especially when using fall arrest systems. One critical element of these systems is the use of diversion anchor points. Their primary purpose is to reduce the likelihood of a pendulum fall, a dangerous scenario that every worker at height must understand and avoid.

What Is a Pendulum Fall?

A pendulum fall, also known as a "swing fall," occurs when a worker falls while tethered to an anchor point that is off to the side of their work position. Instead of falling straight down, the worker swings like a pendulum, often across a wide arc.

This type of fall poses two major dangers:

1. Impact with Obstacles: During the swing, the worker can collide with nearby structures, such as walls, beams, or equipment.
2. Increased Force on the System: The swinging motion generates additional force on the rope, anchor, and harness, increasing the chance of equipment failure.

The further a worker moves away from their anchor point, the greater the potential for a pendulum fall.

How Diversion Anchor Points Help Prevent Pendulum Falls

Diversion anchor points are secondary anchor points installed to redirect the fall arrest system. They work by:

1. Reducing Swing Distance: By placing a diversion anchor closer to the worker's position, the potential arc of a pendulum fall is minimized.
2. Maintaining Optimal Rope Angle: Diversion anchors keep the rope aligned vertically above the worker, reducing the chance of lateral movement during a fall.
3. Enhancing Control: The worker can use the diversion anchor to adjust rope tension and length, keeping the system tight and reducing slack.

By integrating diversion anchor points into the system, workers can move safely across a wider area without increasing the risk of a pendulum fall.

When to Use Diversion Anchor Points

Diversion anchor points are essential whenever:

• A worker is moving laterally across a roof or structure, away from the primary anchor point.
• There are obstacles or hazards in the work area that could increase the swing arc during a fall.
• Maintaining a direct vertical alignment with the primary anchor is not possible.

How to Use Diversion Anchor Points

To set up and use a diversion anchor point effectively:

1. Identify Hazards: Assess the work area to identify locations where a pendulum fall could occur.
2. Install a Diversion Anchor (If there is not already a diversion anchor in place): Secure a diversion anchor point in a location that reduces lateral movement and aligns the rope closer to the worker’s position.
3. Attach the Rope: Leave your rope attached to the appropriate primary anchor point. Hook a karabiner to the diversion anchor and feed the rope through it, tighten/do up the karabiner.
4. Minimize Slack: Adjust the rope to reduce excess slack, which limits movement and fall distance.

The Importance of Proper Training

Diversion anchor points are highly effective when used correctly, but improper setup can compromise their safety benefits. Workers must be trained to:

• Recognise the risk of pendulum falls.
• Properly set up and adjust diversion anchors.
• Understand how to maintain optimal rope tension and alignment.

Preventing Pendulum Falls: A Must for Height Safety

Pendulum falls are one of the most dangerous risks for workers at height, but they are also entirely preventable. Diversion anchor points are a simple yet powerful tool to ensure fall arrest systems provide the protection they’re designed for.

At Connected Roof Safety and Adelaide Height Safety, we specialise in creating safer work environments for those working at heights. If you’d like to know more about fall arrest systems, including the proper use of diversion anchor points, reach out to us. Together, we can reduce risks and make working at heights safer for everyone.

Have you encountered a pendulum fall risk on your worksite? What measures did you take to address it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!