EN 795 Personal Fall Protection Equipment - Anchor Devices

The European standard "EN 795 Personal fall protection equipment - Anchor devices" specifies the performance requirements and associated test methods for single-user anchor devices intended to be removable from the structure. These anchor devices include fixed or movable (mobile) anchor points designed to connect components of personal fall protection systems in accordance with "EN 363 Personal fall protection equipment - Personal fall protection systems." This standard also provides requirements for marking, instructions for use, and installation guidance.

However, this standard does not apply to:

• Anchor devices designed to allow multiple users to connect simultaneously
• Anchor devices used in any sporting or recreational activity
• Equipment designed to comply with EN 516 or EN 517 standards
• Structural elements or parts installed for a purpose other than an anchor point or anchor device, e.g. beams
• Structural anchors

For the purposes of this standard, anchor system means a system designed for use as part of a personal fall protection system incorporating an anchor point or points, an anchor device, a member or fixture, or a structural anchor. Anchor systems that are not intended to be removed from the structure are not within the scope of this standard.

The EN 795 standard defines how to design, test, and mark anchor devices to ensure the safety of workers at height. These devices are the anchor points to which fall arrest, work positioning, or restraint systems are attached.

This applies to anchor devices designed for use with personal protective equipment against falls from heights, especially for one user at a time.

The anchor device types (EN 795 categories) are determined as follows:

• Type A: Fixed anchor points requiring structural mounting (e.g. bolted rings, brackets)
• Type B: Temporary portable anchor devices (e.g. tripods, strap anchors)
• Type C: Flexible horizontal anchor lines (e.g. horizontal lifelines such as cables or ropes)
• Type D: Rigid horizontal anchor rails (e.g. I-beam rails or rails)
• Type E: Deadweight anchors (used on flat roofs) (e.g. weighted cars or plates)

The basic testing requirements are:

• Static strength test: Force is applied for 3 minutes to prevent breakage or deformation. Loads vary depending on the anchor type: 12 kN for types A and B, 6 kN for types C and D, and 10 kN for type E. The anchor must not deform or fail at the end of the test.
• Dynamic performance test: Simulates a fall arrest event using a 100 kg rigid mass dropped from a height of 2 m. This test is designed to verify energy absorption and structural integrity. Tests include free fall at the following points: midpoint for type C, end or unsupported spans for type D, and any critical load angle for types A and B. This test simulates the force of an actual fall.
• Corrosion resistance: Optional, but usually tested according to EN ISO 9227 (salt spray test). This test is specifically for outdoor use and for types A, B, C, and D.
• Functional testing: This test is performed to determine that all moving parts, carriages, or adjustment mechanisms continue to function after other tests. It is generally required for types C and D (lifelines and rails).
• Instructions and marking: Products must include clear markings, user information, and instructions for installation, use, and maintenance.

Tests should be conducted in the weakest or most stressed configuration (i.e., the worst-case anchor position). Anchor devices should be tested with the intended structure or mounting method. Type E (dead weight) should be tested only on flat, friction-compatible surfaces and not on sloped or wet surfaces.

The EN 795 standard covers devices for only one user at a time. For multiple users, the CEN/TS 16415 standard applies. Types A, C, and D fall within the scope of the Construction Product Directive (CPR) in some cases due to permanent installation. Only Types B and E are considered personal protective equipment under Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and can be CE marked as such. When permanently fixed to structures, Types A, C, and D fall within the scope of the Construction Product Directive, not the Personal Protective Equipment Directive.

The EN 795 standard is mainly used in the following cases:

• When designing or purchasing anchor systems for stand-alone use
• When seeking CE certification for types B or E
• In accordance with the European Union personal protective equipment directive for basic fall protection

The CEN/TS 16415 standard is used in the following cases:

• When designing or using anchor systems for multiple users simultaneously
• When conducting a risk assessment or engineering assessment for teamwork at height
• When working on horizontal lifeline systems shared by several workers

Our organization, which has been supporting businesses across all sectors for years through a wide range of testing, measurement, analysis, and evaluation activities, has a strong team of employees who closely follow global developments in science and technology and are constantly improving themselves. In this context, we also provide testing services to businesses in accordance with the "EN 795 Personal Fall Protection Equipment - Anchor Devices" standard.