Security systems “lifeline” They must comply with a series of national and EU regulations to ensure worker protection during operations at height. Regulations for these systems vary depending on the type of operation and the Italian region, but there are general legislative references that establish guidelines for the installation, use, and maintenance of lifelines.

Reference Standards for Lifeline Systems

National Regulations

1. Legislative Decree 81/08 (Consolidated Law on Safety at Work)
   The Legislative Decree 81/08 It is the main regulatory framework in Italy regarding workplace safety. The decree mandates the adoption of preventative measures against falls from a height for all work at height (i.e., work performed at a height greater than 2 meters above a stable surface). The law states that:

   • Employers must provide suitable collective or individual protection systems (such as lifeline systems).
   • The installation of lifelines must be planned and carried out in compliance with current legislation, ensuring that operators are adequately trained in the use of these devices.

2. UNI EN 795:2012
   The norm UNI EN 795:2012 This is the European standard that regulates the requirements for anchorage systems designed to protect people from falls from a height. Specifically, it applies to anchorage devices intended for use by only one person at a time, with particular attention to the system's strength and durability.

   The standard provides for 5 classes of anchoring devices:

   • Class A: Fixed structural anchors.
   • Class B: Temporary anchors.
   • Class C: Flexible anchor lines (e.g. horizontal lifelines).
   • Class D: Rigid anchor lines (fixed tracks).
   • E-ClassAnchoring systems for flat and mobile horizontal surfaces.

3. UNI EN 353-1:2018
   It concerns vertical fall arrest systems and specifies the requirements for personal fall protection equipment, including anchorage systems on ladders or other vertical structures, often used in conjunction with lifelines.

Regional Regulations

In addition to national regulations, some Italian regions have introduced specific regulations for the installation and use of lifelines:

• TuscanyRegional Law No. 65/2014 requires the installation of permanent anchoring devices, such as lifelines, for public and private buildings, both new and undergoing major renovations.
• LombardyRegional Government Decree No. 11953/2009 regulates the obligation to provide fall protection systems, including lifelines, on temporary and mobile construction sites.
• Emilia-Romagna: Regulates with DGR 149/2013 the mandatory installation of anchoring systems on new buildings or buildings undergoing extraordinary maintenance work.

Maintenance and Periodic Checks

Another fundamental aspect is the maintenance and inspection Lifelines. The regulation requires that anchoring systems be regularly inspected by qualified personnel to ensure their compliance and long-term effectiveness. Inspections must be documented and include:

• Visually check the condition of the lifeline.
• Checking the fasteners.
• Endurance tests, if necessary.

Conclusion

The lifelines They must be installed and maintained in strict compliance with national and regional regulations to ensure the safety of workers working at height. Employers and construction site managers are required to comply with these regulations, ensuring that anchoring systems are suitable, correctly installed, and regularly inspected.