1. What Is an Energy-Absorbing Lanyard?
An energy-absorbing lanyard (also called a shock-absorbing lanyard) is a device that connects a worker’s full-body safety harness to an anchor point.
In the event of a fall, the energy absorber (shock pack) dissipates the impact energy through controlled tearing or webbing elongation, acting like a “slow brake.”
This process reduces the sudden impact force to within the safety limits acceptable for the human body and equipment.
2. Why Can’t It Be Used After a Fall?
Many people assume the lanyard can still be used if it looks undamaged.
However, this is a serious misconception and extremely dangerous.
Once the energy absorber has been deployed:
The internal energy-absorbing materials have been torn or stretched, reducing their strength.
The shock absorption capability cannot be restored — it will no longer effectively absorb energy in another fall.
External appearance does not indicate safety performance — even if it looks fine, it may already be compromised.
According to EN355 and GB24543-2009 standards:
Once the energy absorber has been activated, the shock pack’s ability to cushion impact is completely used up and cannot be reused.
In other words —
⚠️ An energy-absorbing lanyard is a one-time-use safety device.
Once it has deployed, it must be replaced.
3. Correct Procedure After a Fall
1. Stop Using Immediately
Label all equipment involved in the fall — lanyard, harness, connectors, anchor point — as “Do Not Use.”
2. Professional Inspection
Have the equipment inspected by a qualified testing organization or your company’s safety department.
If there is any doubt or the inspection conditions are insufficient, replace the equipment immediately.
3. Record and Archive
Maintain an incident equipment log with the following details: user, equipment ID, fall time, and inspection results.
4. Replace Equipment
Use new equipment that meets EN / GB standards, ensuring compatibility, compliance, and validity before resuming work.
4. Routine Inspection and Maintenance
Before Each Use (by the Operator):
Lanyard body: No cuts, heavy wear, burns, or chemical damage.
Shock absorber: Labels clear, no deployment or tearing signs.
Metal parts: No cracks, deformation, or severe rust.
Records: Equipment ID, last inspection date, and user information are complete.
Periodic Inspection (by Safety Officer or Third Party):
Conduct periodic sampling inspections (monthly recommended).
Comprehensive inspections by qualified institutions every 6 or 12 months.
Stop using and inspect immediately after any fall or abnormal condition.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and chemicals.
5. Common Misconceptions and Corrections
| ❌ Misconception | ✅ Correct Practice |
|---|---|
| “It looks fine, so it’s still safe.” | The energy absorber is already used — must be replaced. |
| “We can repair and reuse it.” | The energy absorber is designed for single use — cannot be repaired. |
| “It was just a small slip, not a real fall.” | If the shock pack is deployed, the lanyard must be replaced. |