Fall Arrest vs Fall Restraint – What’s the Difference?

When working at height, selecting the correct safety system is critical.

Fall arrest and fall restraint are often confused — but they serve very different purposes.

Choosing the wrong system can increase risk, complicate compliance, and expose workers to unnecessary danger.

This guide explains the difference — and when each should be used.

What Is a Fall Arrest System?

A fall arrest system is designed to stop a fall after it has already occurred.

The worker is allowed to reach a fall hazard (such as an edge), but if they fall, the system activates to limit injury.

A typical fall arrest setup includes:

  • Full body harness

  • Energy absorbing lanyard or fall arrest block

  • Secure anchor point

  • Sufficient clearance below the worker

Because the fall occurs before the system engages, impact forces must be absorbed and clearance distances calculated carefully.

Fall arrest systems are commonly used where restraint is not possible due to operational requirements.

What Is a Fall Restraint System?

A fall restraint system is designed to prevent a fall from happening at all.

The worker is physically restricted from reaching a fall hazard.

Key characteristics:

  • Fixed-length lanyard

  • Secure anchor point

  • No energy absorber required

  • No fall clearance calculation needed

Where practical, restraint is often the preferred solution because it eliminates the risk of falling rather than reacting to it.

Fall Arrest vs Fall Restraint – Key Differences

Feature Fall Arrest Fall Restraint
Purpose Stops a fall Prevents a fall
Worker can reach edge? Yes No
Energy absorber required? Yes No
Fall clearance calculation? Required Not required
Risk exposure Higher Lower

Which System Is Safer?

In many cases, fall restraint is considered the safer option because it removes the possibility of falling altogether.

However, restraint is not always feasible.

Operational layout, anchor positioning, and task requirements may require a fall arrest system instead.

The correct choice depends on:

  • Work location

  • Anchor availability

  • Task movement requirements

  • Clearance distances

  • Industry regulations

Why Choosing the Correct System Matters

Incorrect specification can lead to:

  • Increased injury risk

  • Non-compliance with Working at Height Regulations

  • Site shutdowns

  • Insurance issues

  • Investigation following incidents

Height safety should always be specified correctly for the application — not simply selected from a catalogue.

Height Safety Systems Supplied by Trans-Web

Trans-Web supplies a range of height safety equipment including:

  • Full body harnesses

  • Shock absorbing lanyards

  • Restraint lanyards

  • Anchor slings and connectors

  • Fall arrest blocks

As a UK manufacturer and supplier, we support construction, logistics, hire companies and industrial operations across the UK.

If you are unsure whether fall arrest or restraint is appropriate for your application, our team can review your setup and advise accordingly.

Speak to a Height Safety Specialist

Working at height carries serious responsibility.

If you would like guidance on selecting the correct system for your operation:

👉 Discuss Your Height Safety Requirement
👉 View Our Height Safety Equipment

Introducing HMPE Round Slings – A Lightweight Alternative to Polyester

Trans-Web now manufactures and supplies HMPE round slings as part of our expanding lifting equipment range.

Designed for applications where traditional polyester round slings become bulky, heavy or inefficient, HMPE (High Molecular Polyethylene) slings provide the same safe working loads in a significantly lighter and more compact form.

As a UK manufacturer of lifting equipment, we produce HMPE round slings to order from our Oldham facility, allowing capacity, length and protective options to be matched precisely to your lifting requirements.

What Are HMPE Round Slings?

HMPE round slings are manufactured using high molecular polyethylene yarns — a high-strength synthetic fibre often associated with premium lifting and rope applications.

When incorporated into lifting slings, HMPE offers:

  • Reduced overall sling weight
  • Smaller finished width
  • High cut and abrasion resistance
  • Low elongation under load
  • Strong performance in demanding environments

This makes HMPE an effective alternative to polyester where handling effort, space constraints or long service life are key considerations.

HMPE vs Polyester Round Slings

Polyester round slings remain a widely used and reliable lifting solution. However, in certain applications, HMPE can offer clear advantages.

Compared to polyester slings, HMPE round slings:

  • Are significantly lighter for equivalent working loads
  • Occupy less space around the load
  • Provide improved durability in high-wear environments
  • Low elongation under load
  • Deliver better load control due to lower stretch

For repetitive lifting operations or confined lifting configurations, these differences can improve efficiency and reduce manual handling strain.

Manufactured in the UK to Your Specification

At Trans-Web, all HMPE round slings are manufactured in-house in the UK.

This allows us to:

  • Produce slings to specific working load limits
  • Manufacture custom lengths
  • Provide improved durability in high-wear environments
  • Incorporate additional protection where required
  • Maintain strict quality control and traceability

As an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer, our processes ensure consistent performance and compliance across our lifting equipment range.

When Should You Consider HMPE Round Slings?

HMPE round slings may be suitable where:

  • Polyester slings are too heavy for frequent handling
  • Lift paths are restricted and smaller sling width is beneficial
  • Long service life is required
  • Reduced elongation improves lift stability

If you are currently specifying polyester slings but facing handling or durability challenges, HMPE may provide a more efficient long-term solution.

Speak to a UK HMPE Round Sling Manufacturer

Trans-Web supplies HMPE round slings to hire companies, distributors and industrial operators across the UK.

If you would like to assess whether HMPE is suitable for your application, our team can review your lifting requirements and provide guidance.

👉 View our HMPE Round Sling range

Heavy-Duty Roundslings in Marine Lifting Applications

Marine lifting operations demand equipment that performs consistently under extreme conditions. From dockside handling to complex offshore lifts, reliability, strength, and load protection are non-negotiable.

At Trans-Web, our heavy-duty roundslings are designed and manufactured to meet the challenges of the marine industry — providing safe, efficient lifting solutions where failure is not an option.

Designed for Demanding Marine Environments

Marine environments expose lifting equipment to moisture, salt, abrasion, and heavy repetitive loads. That’s why we’ve recently upgraded our 12–60 tonne roundslings, enhancing performance without increasing cost.

Our roundslings are now manufactured with advanced Twillock diagonal sleeve construction, providing measurable improvements where it matters most in marine applications:

  • Greater abrasion resistance, helping extend service life in harsh dockside and offshore conditions

  • Improved flexibility and handling, particularly in tighter bends and complex rigging setups

  • Consistent, reliable performance for heavy-duty and repetitive lifts

This upgrade delivers a stronger, smarter solution at the same price point — ensuring our roundsling catalogue continues to meet the practical demands of marine lifting while offering long-term value.

Proven Performance in Real-World Marine Lifts

The images featured in this article show Trans-Web roundslings in use across a range of marine lifting scenarios — from dockside operations to large-scale vessel loading.

These real-world applications demonstrate why roundslings are widely used in the marine sector:

  • Even load distribution helps reduce point loading

  • Soft construction protects both the load and lifting points

  • Compatibility with cranes, spreader beams, and complex rigging setups

Each lift presents unique challenges, which is why selecting the correct sling specification is critical to safe and efficient operations.

Manufactured to Specification, Not Guesswork

Every lifting operation is different. At Trans-Web, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions.

Our roundslings can be supplied as standard or manufactured to customer specification, taking into account:

  • Working Load Limit (WLL)

  • Lift configuration (basket, choke, or straight lift)

  • Environmental exposure

  • Load shape and weight distribution

This approach ensures that lifting equipment is fit for purpose — not just compliant on paper.

UK-Manufactured Quality You Can Rely On

All Trans-Web roundslings are designed and manufactured in the UK, giving customers confidence in quality control, traceability, and fast turnaround times.

By keeping manufacturing in-house, we’re able to respond quickly to urgent requirements and support time-sensitive marine projects without compromising on safety or performance.

Speak to the Experts Before Your Next Lift

Selecting the correct lifting sling is critical — especially in marine and dockside environments where conditions are unpredictable and margins for error are small.

If you have an upcoming marine lift and need roundslings you can rely on, our team is on hand to help you choose or design the right solution.

👉 Contact Trans-Web today to discuss your lifting requirements and receive expert advice tailored to your application.

Trans-Web Expands Custom Lifting Solutions to Meet Demanding Industry Needs

As industries face increasingly challenging environments, the demand for custom lifting solutions has never been higher. Trans-Web Ltd, a UK-based leader in the design and manufacturing of lifting and safety equipment, is proud to offer a range of bespoke solutions tailored to the exact needs of its customers. From hazardous environments to military applications, Trans-Web is setting the standard for quality, durability, and performance.

With a growing reputation for providing custom lifting nets, slings, bags, and harnesses, Trans-Web has become the go-to supplier for industries that require specialized equipment. Whether it’s construction, defence, or retail, Trans-Web’s custom solutions are built to perform under even the most demanding conditions, ensuring maximum safety and efficiency.

Meeting the Toughest Requirements: Lifting Solutions Built for Hazardous Conditions
Trans-Web’s custom lifting systems are engineered to withstand some of the toughest environments. Designed with chemicals, high temperatures, and other hazardous elements in mind, these solutions ensure that equipment can endure extreme conditions without compromising safety or performance.

Trans-Web has experience producing military-grade lifting equipment that meets the rigorous standards required for defence operations. The company offers NATO green products for military applications, ensuring that its equipment blends seamlessly with military standards while maintaining the highest levels of quality and performance.

In response to specific client needs, Trans-Web recently completed a custom lifting net for a construction client. This project highlights the company’s ability to create products from scratch, from initial drawings to a finished, high-performance product.

 

 

Trans-Web’s custom lifting nets are designed to be versatile and durable, offering enhanced safety and efficiency for lifting and securing heavy loads. By providing tailored solutions, Trans-Web ensures that each product is optimally designed to suit the specific lifting and safety requirements of the job.

Why Choose Trans-Web’s Custom Lifting Solutions?
Fast Turnaround: Trans-Web’s ability to deliver high-quality custom solutions quickly ensures that clients can get their lifting equipment when they need it most, minimizing downtime and increasing operational efficiency.

UK Manufactured: All of Trans-Web’s products are manufactured in the UK, ensuring quality control, faster shipping times, and the ability to accommodate specific customer needs.

Free Consultation: Trans-Web offers free consultations to ensure that clients receive the most appropriate lifting solutions for their unique requirements.

Get in Touch for Tailored Lifting Solutions
As industries continue to evolve and face new challenges, custom lifting solutions from Trans-Web offer the reliability, performance, and safety needed to meet the demands of modern business. Whether you’re in construction, defence, or retail, Trans-Web’s bespoke lifting systems can help you ensure safety and improve operational efficiency.

🔗 Request a quote today for tailored lifting solutions or get in touch with our team for a free consultation.

Height safety demand increases as businesses prioritise worker safety, says Trans-Web

Trusted manufacturer of lifting, lashing and height safety equipment, Trans-Web, have seen a surge in sales of their height safety range as a growing number of construction businesses prioritise worker safety.

According to a recent report from The Telegraph, one fatality occurs every week on a construction site due to inadequate health and safety awareness.

As a result, construction companies are increasingly focusing on the safety of their workers and turning to trusted suppliers like Trans-Web for high-quality equipment.

“The continued success of our height safety range is a clear sign that businesses are taking worker protection more seriously than ever, and we’re proud to support that effort with our best-selling full body harnesses, restraint lanyards and wire anchor strops” says Lee Wrigley, Director of Trans-Web.

Trans-Web’s height safety range is said to feature class-leading strength, flexibility and durability to protect workers at height in the most demanding environments.

Their LITE Full Body Harness is suitable for most work-at-height activities. Easy to fit, adjust and take off, the harness features textile rings at the chest and hips to naturally adapt to the user’s body shape whether sitting, standing or kneeling.

Their work restraint lanyards are ideal for work restraint or as a component for working at height. They can be made from three types of materials to suit different user requirements; two-ply webbing for cut resistance and durability, 32-braid polyester kernmantle rope for flexibility or elasticated webbing to reduce clutter and snagging.

Manufactured from 6mm galvanised steel wire rope, Trans-Web’s wire anchor strop is a durable temporary anchor device for work-at-height activities, fitted with eye thimbles at each end and a transparent protective tube to prolong its lifespan.

“It’s fantastic to see so many of our customers returning to us for our full body harnesses, restraint lanyards and wire anchor strops. We’re proud to offer products that their staff can rely on, tested to the highest standards for ultimate protection” adds Lee.

Established in 1987, Trans-Web is the leading manufacturer of lifting systems, lashings and height safety equipment in the UK.

With almost 40 years’ experience, the Oldham-based company has built a long-standing reputation for manufacturing durable, high-quality equipment that is trusted by distributors across the UK.

“Our priority is to supply distributors with the most effective height safety equipment for their customers, helping to keep workers in construction, manufacturing and other high-risk industries safe at height. As we expand our range with new height safety equipment, we’re looking forward to helping even more businesses meet their safety needs” concludes Lee.

For more information on Trans-Web, please visit https://www.trans-web.co.uk/

Trans-Web secures recertification of latest ISO 9001:2015 quality management standard

We’re pleased to announce that we have once again maintained our trusted certification of the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

ISO 9001:2015 is an internationally recognised standard for quality management, which highlights how an organisation can improve their performance, meet customer expectations and showcase their commitment to quality.

By maintaining this important standard, we demonstrate our ability to provide the highest quality lifting, lashing and height safety products that continuously meet and exceed our clients’ expectations.

For almost four decades, we’ve been manufacturing and supplying bespoke lifting systems, lashings and height safety equipment for our esteemed customer base all over the UK. Our products are used to keep workers safe and goods secure in important industries including construction, logistics, marine and oil & gas operations – so quality is critical.

We’re thrilled to achieve this recertification and extend a big thank you to our incredible team for their hard work crafting the highest quality products for our clients.

To find out more about Trans-Web, please visit https://www.trans-web.co.uk/

Trans-Web secures lifting professional’s ‘peace of mind’ with recertification of slings

Trans-Web, have successfully completed recertifying their lifting slings to the BS EN1492 European Standard.

The BS EN1492 standard is a critical benchmark for the safety of lifting slings, focusing on their material strength, working load limit and performance in demanding conditions.

By meeting and exceeding this recognised standard, Trans-Web believe it not only demonstrates the strength and quality of their slings, but also helps give their customers’ peace of mind during lifting operations.

“At Trans-Web, safety and reliability are at the core of everything we manufacture. By once again having our lifting slings tested to BS EN1492 standards, it reinforces our commitment to making products our customers can trust – and I’m delighted that all our slings passed with flying colours” says Lee Wrigley, Director of Trans-Web.

The BS EN1492 standard is split into two categories – BS EN1492:1, which refers to flat woven webbing slings, and BS EN1492:2, which includes round slings.

Trans-Web break load tested their duplex webbing slings under BS EN1492:1 and their round slings under BS EN1492:2.

This confirms the ultimate tensile strength of their slings and ensures they can withstand tough conditions in a wide range of demanding industries, including construction, marine, oil & gas and logistics.

“Industries that work in challenging environments and need heavy loads to be lifted require the highest quality slings to be able to get the job done safely. With our successful recertification, we’re proud to ensure this peace of mind for our clients” says Lee.

Established in 1987, Trans-Web is the leading manufacturer of lifting, lashing and height safety equipment in the UK.

With almost 40 years’ experience and the latest technology, Trans-Web design, manufacture and test their products on site to provide high-quality solutions for their established network of UK-based distributors.

Their range of standard and bespoke polyester webbing slings are made to suit any requirement, industry or lifting operation.

“At Trans-Web, we’re dedicated to supporting our customers in even the most demanding industries. We’re excited to be developing a new range of lifting slings for high-heat and chemical environments to give more of our clients’ peace of mind during their lifting operations” concludes Lee.

For more information on Trans-Web, visit https://www.trans-web.co.uk/

Trans-Web delivers festive joy to children at Royal Oldham Hospital with chocolate selection boxes

Leading manufacturer of lifting, lashing and height safety equipment, Trans-Web, have donated 100 selection boxes to Oldham Young Carers and child patients at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

This comes as a continuation of their longstanding support for Team Hill Charitable Trust, a charity founded in 2019 by Steve Hill MBE.

Team Hill provides homes, healthcare and education for children and young people both locally in Oldham and internationally in Uganda.

“Christmas is the season of giving – and there’s no better way to bring smiles to children’s faces than with a little chocolate! We’re delighted to help Team Hill deliver these selection boxes to children and young carers at the Royal Oldham Hospital” says Lee, Director of Trans-Web.

Team Hill is a charity committed to supporting children and young people, with its founder Steve Hill taking on extreme challenges around the globe to raise funds.

Over the last five years, Steve has climbed one of the highest mountains in the world, participated in marathons across the North Pole, Amazon Jungle and the Arctic and has run 14 marathons in 16 days across Costa Rica and Tajikistan.

Earlier this year, Steve ran five marathons back-to-back in the Gobi Desert before climbing the five highest mountains in Central America.

Since the charity’s foundation, Steve has raised over £100,000 for young people in Oldham and Uganda.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received over the last five years and Trans-Web in particular have been a great help to Team Hill. Lee is always willing to help us in any way he can and his contributions are always greatly appreciated” says Steve Hill, founder of Team Hill Charitable Trust.

Trans-Web sponsors many of Team Hill’s fundraising events – including the highly popular race nights – and stores large items and decorations for these events in their warehouse.

“We’ve built a strong relationship with Steve and his charity over the last five years and always look forward to supporting him in his efforts to make a difference in our community and beyond. I’m confident we’ll continue to support Team Hill for years to come” concludes Lee.

Established in 1987, Trans-Web is the leading manufacturer of lifting systems, lashings and height safety equipment in the UK.

With over 35 years’ experience, Trans-Web provide British-made products and bespoke design solutions to their established network of UK-based distributors.

To find out more about Team Hill Charitable Trust, visit: https://www.stevehillmbe.com/

For more information on Trans-Web, please visit https://www.trans-web.co.uk/

 

Trans-Web celebrates over 100 years of combined service with its longest-serving employees

Leading manufacturer of lifting, lashing and height safety equipment, Trans-Web, has recently celebrated the 35-year anniversaries of three of its longest-serving members of staff.

Francis Hayes and Elizabeth Radcliffe joined the Oldham-based company as machinists only two years after it was first established in 1987. Lee Wrigley joined Trans-Web in 1990 as a labourer, working his way up the business to become Director in 2009.

“Reaching 35 years at Trans-Web is an incredibly proud moment for me – and reaching this milestone with Francis and Elizabeth makes it even more special. I’m delighted to celebrate this achievement with two colleagues who have been an integral part of our success. Over 100 years of service between us is quite remarkable!” says Lee Wrigley, Director of Trans-Web.

As machinists, Francis and Elizabeth sew together polyester webbing to make Trans-Web’s lifting, lashing and height safety equipment, including slings, ratchet straps and safety harnesses.

As Director, Lee is responsible for leading the business and overseeing all operations.

In a career which has seen Trans-Web develop into a leading ‘Made in Britain’ manufacturer, one of Lee’s key highlights in the last 35 years was project managing the factory move to Trans-Web’s current location in 2015.

“Moving to our most recent factory was definitely a milestone moment. With 17,500 square feet, it’s our largest facility to date, and it’s been fantastic to see how the space has helped us grow. Plus, being right on Elizabeth’s doorstep has been a real win for her too!” says Lee.

Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and Francis likes to watch her daughter dance. Lee plays golf at the local golf course and enjoys gardening in his spare time.

Trans-Web marked the 35-year milestones with a small celebration, which brought together past and present employees at their Oldham-based site.

“Seeing how Trans-Web has progressed in the last 35 years has been an incredible journey, one that Francis, Elizabeth and I are proud to be a part of. We’re all looking forward to see how the business continues to grow and develop in the future” concludes Lee.

Trans-Web is a leading manufacturer of lifting systems, lashings and height safety equipment in the UK.

With over 35 years’ experience, Trans-Web provide British-made products and bespoke design solutions to their established network of UK-based distributors.

For more information on Trans-Web, please visit https://www.trans-web.co.uk/

How lifting protection sleeves help extend the lifespan of your lifting equipment

Webbing slings are used to lift and move heavy loads in demanding industries such as construction, logistics, manufacturing and shipping.

These slings face constant exposure to rough surfaces, abrasion and harsh environments, which can weaken them over time and could lead to accidents and injuries, damage to goods and costly replacements.

By using lifting protection sleeves, companies can safeguard their slings from deterioration and breakage, significantly extending the lifespan of their lifting equipment and increasing safety.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the benefits of lifting sleeves, materials they are commonly crafted from and how they protect lifting slings against damage.

 

What are lifting protection sleeves?

Lifting protection sleeves are designed to shield webbing slings from damage, acting as a barrier between the sling and potentially harmful surfaces or materials to prevent wear and tear that can weaken the sling over time.

They can be left free to move along the sling or be stitched onto a fixed point.

By reducing the risk of cuts, fraying or degradation, lifting protection sleeves extend the lifespan of the webbing sling and enhance safety in lifting operations.

 

What are they made from?

Lifting protection sleeves are constructed from a variety of high-strength materials, each designed to suit different operations and environments.

Polyester is most commonly used for lifting sleeves because of its affordability, flexibility, strength and high resistance to mildew and rot.

High Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE) is becoming a popular material for lifting protection sleeves for businesses operating in more extreme environments. This is due to its long-lasting durability and high resistance to chemicals and UV exposure.

Another alternative is Para-aramid. This material is lightweight and flexible, highly resistant to cuts and abrasion, and can handle extreme temperatures of up to 200˚C.

Para-aramid is therefore ideal for demanding and high-temperature applications such as metal and glass manufacturing, chemical plants and emergency and rescue operations.

 

What types of damage do they protect against?

Webbing slings potentially encounter varying types of damage, depending on specific environmental and operational conditions.

Since lifting sleeves can be constructed from varying materials, they can protect against many different causes of damage to keep your lifting equipment operational for longer.

 

Abrasion

Lifting protection sleeves are designed to handle rough surfaces in situations where abrasion is common, such as construction, manufacturing and logistics.

In these environments, heavy loads are transported and lifted regularly, leading to frequent friction that can wear down webbing slings over time.

The tightly woven fibres of a polyester protection sleeve provide a durable, protective barrier against rough surfaces and abrasion during lifting operations.

This prevents the sling from fraying and degrading, reducing the risk of the webbing sling breaking and extending the lifespan of the lifting system.

 

Cuts and tears

Lifting sleeves can prevent accidental cuts or tears from sharp objects or materials, such as the rough edges of machinery, metal objects or debris commonly found in transportation, manufacturing and emergency operations.

The high-strength HMPE fibres means that these protection sleeves are highly resistant to cuts, significantly reducing the risk of slings getting damaged during lifts.

This level of protection ensures that lifting slings can withstand repeated use in tough conditions, improving safety while extending the working life of the equipment.

 

Environmental factors

Lifting sleeves also offer protection against environmental factors which can degrade unprotected slings and affect their performance.

Since HMPE is highly resistant to UV rays, this ensures lifting protection sleeves maintain their strength and durability even when exposed to frequent sunlight, making them ideal for outdoor use in industries like construction and shipping.

HMPE is also resistant to many chemicals, which prevents corrosion or weakening in harsh industrial environments, such as chemical plants or oil and gas operations.

Plus, polyester is naturally water and moisture resistant due to its tightly woven fibres. This ensures that protection sleeves made from this material maintain their integrity even in damp or wet conditions.

 

How can Trans-Web help?

We have over 35 years’ experience crafting webbing slings and protection sleeves from premium polyester materials.

Available in single part, double part and light-duty variations, our protection sleeves can be tailored to any length to fit your requirements.

We’re constantly innovating and developing our products with the latest technology and materials to ensure the highest quality of lifting, lashing and height safety equipment for our customers.

Our upcoming release of HMPE and Para-aramid protection sleeves are designed to enhance the durability of your lifting equipment for an even longer lifespan.

To find out more about how Trans-Web can help your lifting equipment stay stronger for longer, contact us at: https://www.trans-web.co.uk/contact-us/