Webbings used in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must comply with specific European standards to ensure reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance. These standards cover lanyards, harnesses, energy absorbers, connectors, and anchor points.
INRS states that the components of a fall arrest system (lanyard, absorber, harness, connectors) must comply with NF EN 354, NF EN 355, NF EN 362, and NF EN 361 standards. Anchor points are notably governed by NF EN 795.
Main standards
NF EN 354 – Lanyards (connecting elements)
The NF EN 354 standard specifies the requirements for lanyards used in fall protection systems (linking components), including:
- Static and dynamic strength requirements, with defined test methods to ensure the lanyard withstands loads
- Marking, user instructions, packaging, and conditions of use
- Materials and construction (webbing, assemblies) and manufactured ends (terminations)
This standard applies to lanyards, adjustable or not, used in fall arrest, work positioning, or rope access systems. When a lanyard includes an energy absorber, it is also subject to NF EN 355.
NF EN 361 – Fall arrest harnesses (body support devices)
NF EN 361 defines the minimum requirements for fall arrest harnesses, including:
- Distribution of forces across the body to reduce injury
- Design of attachment points (dorsal, ventral, sternal depending on use) and strength of the webbing components
- Marking, instructions for use, and strength testing
INRS recommends that all harnesses used in a fall arrest system comply with NF EN 361.
NF EN 795 – Anchor points
NF EN 795 applies to anchorage devices designed to secure fall protection systems:
- It defines performance criteria and test methods to ensure the anchor can withstand fall forces
- It distinguishes several anchor classes (A to E), depending on type — fixed, temporary, rail, cable, etc.
- It includes recommendations for installation, inspection, and periodic verification
The INRS document “Prevention of fall-from-height risks” specifies that the anchor point must be compatible and sized according to NF EN 795.
Other related standards
- NF EN 355: energy absorbers (when integrated into lanyards) to limit impact force
- NF EN 362: connectors (carabiners, hooks) – strength and performance requirements
- NF EN 360: retractable fall arresters for lifeline systems
- NF EN 363: complete fall protection systems (harness + lanyard + absorber + anchorage)
Why these standards matter
1. Safety and protection of people
Standards impose precise resistance and performance thresholds to reduce fall-related risks, particularly by limiting the impact force transmitted to the body.
2. Regulatory compliance and legal responsibility
In France, employers are required to provide PPE that complies with applicable standards (Labor Code). Using non-compliant equipment can result in penalties and liability in case of accidents.
3. Component compatibility
Standards ensure that all system elements (lanyard, harness, connectors, anchorage) function together safely without structural weakness.
4. Traceability, marking, and information
Marking, instructions, and packaging requirements ensure proper identification, maintenance, tracking, and inspection of equipment.
5. Durability and periodic inspection
Standards promote regular inspections and maintenance to ensure performance does not degrade over time or with use.