Methodology of testing guided-type fall arresters with rail-based rigid anchor lines

Guided-type fall arresters with a rigid anchor line made of rail are among the most effective ways of fall protection from height. Their primary role is to ensure the user's safe movement during climbing and to protect them in the event of a sudden fall. Given that the functionality and reliability of this personal fall protection equipment directly impact the user's safety, the requirements for its quality are very rigorous. These requirements are precisely defined in European standards. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide a systematic overview of the methodology of testing of guided-type fall arresters with a rigid anchor line made of rail, in accordance with standard EN 353-1. This methodology is developed by the Laboratory for Railway Engineering and Structures Testing at the Faculty of Mechanical and Civil Engineering in Kraljevo, University of Kragujevac, Serbia. The paper analyzes the requirements for the physical, geometric, and mechanical characteristics of guided-type fall arresters and rigid anchor lines made of rail. Special attention is given to the procedures for performing both static and dynamic tests. The results of the conducted research provide a basis for assessing the potential for developing and manufacturing this type of personal fall protection equipment for the international market, while also contributing to ongoing efforts to improve its quality and safety by offering insights relevant to global production and certification processes.