Petzl Fall Arrest Lanyards
Understanding the basics with Petzl Absorbica-Y kits
We’re always happy to discuss the finer points of kit selection to make sure you’re protected and you get the most from your PPE.* To help you make your decision on whether to buy an integrated kit or choose your own connectors, we’ve compiled a helpful guide below for you.
Fall arrest lanyards are a critically important part of an up riggers’ kit, so it’s crucial your lanyard is right for the job. We’ve listed a few things you need to know about the Absorbica-Y fall arrest lanyards below:
1. The Anatomy of a Fall Arrest Lanyard
Every system consists of three main parts:
Connectors: Link the system to the harness and the anchor point.
Energy Absorber: Deploys during a fall to reduce force on the body.
Lanyard Legs: Provide the reach to safety lines; available in single (I) or double (Y) configurations.
2. Safety Standards & Essential Rules
Clearance: Users must calculate “drop distance” to ensure they won’t hit the ground before or during absorber deployment. Petzl have created a clearance calculator for help with calculating this. Please note, this is only applicable to Petzl products.
Maximum Length: Under EN 355, a fall arrest lanyard must not exceed 2m from connector end to connector end, as pictured below.
User Weight: Most fall arrest systems are rated for users weighing up to 140kg (including equipment). If the user exceeds 140kg, the manufacturer must be consulted to ensure the users safety.
3. Integrated Connectors vs no Connectors
Our best selling, “hassle-free” choice. The Absorbica-Y is available in 80cm (1m total with MGO 60 hooks) or 150cm (1.8m total with MGO 60 hooks).
- Integrated Version: Comes with MGO hooks already attached. These are permanent and cannot be swapped out for smaller connectors.
- Non-Integrated Version: Allows you to choose your own connectors while keeping the factory-sewn legs.
4. Key Feature Table
| Feature | Absorbica-Y (no connectors) | Absorbica-Y with integrated MGO |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Moderate (requires adding connectors) | High (ready to use with no assembly required) |
| Flexibility | Moderate (2 standard lengths but changeable connectors) | Moderate (2 standard lengths with fixed scaff hooks) |
| Cost | From £52.20 – £74.55 + VAT without connectors | From £140.80 – £178.05 + VAT |
We’ve linked all of the European Petzl Absorbica-Y lanyards below, we also stock the International versions for those travelling and working outside of Europe.
Absorbica-Y 80 70cm without connectors, £51.40 + VAT
Absorbica-Y 150 153cm without connectors, £73.45 + VAT
Absorbica-Y 80 MGO European 100cm with integrated connectors, ready to use, £138.75 + VAT
Absorbica-y 150 MGO European 183cm with integrated connectors, ready to use, £159.15 + VAT
*Disclaimer: PPE must always be selected by person/s competent and confident in its application and use. Users must familiarise themselves with the manufacturers’ instructions and guidelines of the items they are using as per the HSE guidelines: If PPE is required, employers must ensure their workers have sufficient information, instruction and training on the use of PPE.