{"id":35096,"date":"2025-06-06T14:35:33","date_gmt":"2025-06-06T12:35:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/desarrollo.ypsossafety.com\/flexible-vs-rigid-lifelines-which-one-to-choose-in-each-case\/"},"modified":"2026-10-29T23:31:42","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T22:31:42","slug":"flexible-vs-rigid-lifelines-which-one-to-choose-in-each-case","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ypsossafety.com\/en\/flexible-vs-rigid-lifelines-which-one-to-choose-in-each-case\/","title":{"rendered":"Flexible vs. Rigid Lifelines: Which One to Choose in Each Case?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

We know that every job at height has its own risks and challenges, which is why selecting the right fall arrest system is crucial for working safely.<\/p>\n\n

In this post we are going to talk about one of the most common questions that can arise: flexible lifeline or rigid lifeline?<\/p>\n\n

What Is the Difference Between a Flexible and a Rigid Lifeline?<\/h2>\n\n

To begin with, the first thing we need to know is what a flexible lifeline is and what we mean by a rigid lifeline.<\/p>\n\n

Although both systems are governed by the same UNE EN 795 standard<\/a>, each one corresponds to a different part of that standard:<\/p>\n\n

Flexible lifelines<\/a> are governed by the EN 795C standard and are those made up of a cable or a rope. In the case of permanent horizontal ones, these are usually stainless steel cable. They consist of that cable, an energy absorber, a tensioner, and anchor plates attached to the surfaces where they are installed.<\/p>\n

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\"Image<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

In the case of rigid lifelines<\/a>, these are made up of a metal rail, which gives them their rigid character. For the user to move along it, a trolley or slider is used that runs along the line itself. They are governed by the EN 795D standard.<\/p>\n

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\"Image<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

The main difference between the two lies in how they respond to a fall: the clearance distance, the deflection of the system, and the energy absorption.<\/p>\n\n

Flexible Lifelines vs. Rigid Lifelines: Advantages and Disadvantages<\/h2>\n\n

Both solutions ensure safety in work at height, provided that a prior study and risk assessment has been carried out and they have been installed by qualified professionals, but the two options are not equally suited to every situation.<\/p>\n

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\"Comparison<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Below, we explain the advantages and disadvantages of each system:<\/p>\n\n

Flexible Lifelines<\/a><\/h3>\n\n

Advantages of EN 795C lifelines<\/p>\n\n