Fall Protection · Anchor Points

Elevated Anchor Points

Solutions for positioning the connection point above the worker, reducing fall distance, and working with a fall factor of 0 whenever possible.

Tres trabajadores con arneses en una plataforma amarilla suspendida sobre un muro de concreto alto.
Elevated Anchor

The safest connection point is above the worker

An elevated anchor point is a solution designed to position the connection point above the worker whenever possible. This configuration helps reduce fall height, limit the fall factor, and improve the effectiveness of the fall arrest system. The INSST recommends working with a fall factor of 0 whenever possible — by placing the anchor point above the worker to minimize risk and fall distance. At EASTAV GLOBAL, we combine certified technical training, real-world project experience, and in-house solution development to offer a service that goes beyond installation.

At EASTAV, we study, install, and certify elevated anchor solutions adapted to every environment — from confined spaces and rescue operations to channels, trenches, and industrial structures.

The Problem

Many installations lack a safe anchor point above the worker

When an elevated anchor point is not available, real problems arise that compromise safety and work operations.

Increased Fall Distance

Without an elevated point, the fall distance increases, and the impact on the worker can be greater.

Pendulum Effect

A lateral or ground-level anchor point can create a dangerous pendulum effect in the event of a fall.

Inability to use retractables

Retractable devices only function correctly with an overhead connection. Without it, their effectiveness is compromised.

Difficulty performing rescues

Without an elevated point, lifting and recovery operations in an emergency become considerably more complicated.

Improvised use of non-certified elements

In the absence of a suitable anchor point, beams, railings, or structures not designed for this purpose are often used.

Poor orientation of the fall arrest system

A poorly placed anchor can compromise the entire safety chain, even if the rest of the system is correctly installed.

Types of Solutions

An elevated anchor solution for every environment and every use

There is no single elevated anchor solution. The appropriate system depends on the environment, the available structure, the type of work, and whether the installation is permanent or temporary.

Fixed to overhead structure

Permanently installed on beams, gantries, trusses, or ceilings. Ideal for areas with periodic work where a stable and quick overhead connection is needed.

Structural

Fixed directly to load-bearing elements — metal beams, pillars, steel or concrete structures. They require prior verification of the receiving structure's load-bearing capacity.

For self-retracting devices

They allow working with self-retracting lifelines with an overhead connection, reducing the fall distance and improving system effectiveness. The location must avoid interferences, sharp edges, and pendulum falls.

For rescue and confined spaces

They facilitate lifting, lowering, and recovery maneuvers. They must be designed considering the actual rescue procedure and the equipment to be used in each intervention.

Temporary

When no fixed installation exists, solutions are explored using tripods, gantries, auxiliary structures, or certified temporary use devices. Always verified before use.

Trabajador con equipo de seguridad desciende con cuerdas por una abertura en construcción industrial.
Real project

Confined space maintenance with elevated anchors — Wastewater canal, Seville

In this project, ground-level anchors were not viable — the base material was soil, and the available space did not allow for the installation of conventional anchor points. EASTAV designed a system combining elevated anchors and tensioned ropes to ensure a fall factor of 0 at all times.

We used the Arizona Vortex and Terradaptor as elevated anchor points, optimizing angles, reducing friction, and maintaining a clean and safe working environment throughout the pump maintenance.

Elevated anchor points

Positions the connection point above the worker

When the anchor point is positioned above the worker, the fall distance is reduced, and the effectiveness of the fall arrest system is improved. INSST recommends working with a fall factor of 0 whenever possible.

At EASTAV, we study and install elevated anchor solutions adapted to each environment — equipment and systems that we know, use, and recommend because they work in real-world conditions.

Trípode de rescate con cuerdas, arneses y equipo de seguridad colocado junto a una escalinata.
Official Partner · CMC
eastav-cmc-partner-rope-access

Tripod as a temporary elevated anchor

At EASTAV, we are official distributors of CMC in Spain. The Arizona Vortex tripod is our go-to solution for creating temporary elevated anchor points in confined spaces, rescue operations, and areas without fixed structures.

Applicable regulations

Installations compliant with the standard. And that demonstrate it

Elevated anchor points must be selected and installed in accordance with applicable regulations, manufacturer's instructions, and intended use.

Regulations

EN 795:2012

Reference standard for anchoring devices intended for personal fall protection equipment. Applies to temporary and mobile devices used as elevated anchors — including tripods and portable systems (Type B).

Regulations

CEN/TS 16415:2013

Supplementary technical specification to EN 795 for use with multiple simultaneous users.

Relevant when the elevated anchor point must support more than one worker connected at the same time.

Regulations

EN 365:2004

It establishes the requirements for instructions for use, maintenance, and periodic inspection. Every elevated anchor point — permanent or temporary — must be inspected at the frequency indicated by the manufacturer and, at a minimum, before each use.

beyond installation

Training, knowledge, and experience in one place

At EASTAV, we don't just install lifelines. We train the professionals who use them and share the technical knowledge behind each installation.

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Do you have a project?

Tell us where you need to work at height. We'll take care of the rest.

We analyze your structure, select the appropriate solution, install, test, and certify.

You receive a traceable, documented, and ready-to-use installation.

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José Manuel Gordillo Argüelles
CEO | IRATA INSTRUCTOR. L3/42007/i
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Fernando Serrano Parejo
Director of Works and Projects