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Inertia Reel. How It Works!

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What are Inertia Reels

They are made from a retractable synthetic fibre rope, webbing or wire rope that is stored on a reel within a protective housing. The reel is spring-biased to wind the reel in. Other names for Inertia reels are Self-Retracting Lifelines, Personal Fall Limiters or Fall Arrestors.

What are Inertia Reels for

Inertia reels are used to reduce fall distance for when working at height. Reduction in fall distance equates to less chance of injury. Inertia reels are the ideal fall protection solution for construction, industrial, warehouse, utility, mining and confined space applications. 

What are the main features of an Inertia Reel 

  • High impact-resistant nylon housing that is nearly indestructible 

  • No annual factory recertification required

  • Corrosion-resistant stainless steel and aluminium internal components give extended service life with reduced replacement costs

  • Lightweight and easy to handle and transport to and from job sites

  • Smooth, quiet operation designed not to pull or drag on the user to reduce fatigue and improve productivity.

  • Stops a fall within a few centimeters 

  • Dual swivels to minimize lifeline from twisting during use

  • Working Load Limit: 136kg

  • Complies with AS/NZS 1891.3 as a type 2 fall arrest device

How do Inertia Reels work

In the event of a fall, the inertia reel is rapidly pulled out of the housing until it reaches a critical velocity (the “lock-on speed”) at which point the brake mechanism engages and the clutch mechanism decelerates the user over a short distance sometimes the inertia reels may use an external tear-web type energy absorber. The installed inertia reel swivel prevents twisting of the fall arrest system as a result of the worker moving around.

How should Inertia Reels be used

  1. The inertia reels should always be used above the user’s shoulders to ensure their effectiveness. 

  2. When deciding on using a fall arrest inertia reel system, particular attention should be paid to the situation and whether it is the right option. 

  3. Inertia reels are not suitable in a situation where a worker might not reach the speed necessary for the inertia reel to activate. 

  4. This could be a steep sloping roof or unstable materials which could partially support the workers weight. 

Warning about use of Inertia Reels

Please note that inertia reels are not a working support harness and they are not designed for continuous support.

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To enquire about our fall arrest inertia reels, call us on +61418256435 or email theplantyard@theplantyard.com.au.