Permanent Vs Temporary Static Lines

The main differences between a temporary static line and a permanent static line lie in their design, intended duration of use, cost of installation, and typical use cases. In short, permanent static lines are securely installed for regular, ongoing access, whereas temporary static lines are intended solely for short-term or one-off projects.

Selecting the right solution can significantly impact both the safety and compliance of your site. If there is any uncertainty about which system best meets your needs, seek advice from a reputable height safety expert to ensure you’re choosing a compliant and effective fall protection solution.

Permanent Static Lines

Permanent Static Line Systems are designed for long-term use where regular, safe and compliant access to rooftops or various other working-at-height scenarios is required. Suitable for use in fall restraint (work positioning) or fall arrest, permanent static lines provide a reliable and cost-effective means of fall protection.

Permanent Static lines consist of purpose-designed and engineered stanchions or anchor points that are securely mounted to the roof deck or other strong points in the area in which access is required. These anchor points support a continuous high-tensile stainless steel cable that the user(s) connect their harness lanyard to via a specialised sliding shuttle for seamless hands-free access along the length of the line.

Intermediary anchors will be installed for longer spans to support the cable and minimise deflection, per AS/NZS 1891.2 and the manufacturer’s specifications. The number and spacing of intermediary anchors will change depending on multiple factors including the intended number of simultaneous users, as well as the presence of energy absorbers and tensioning setup.

A permanent static line system will be custom-designed to allow workers to freely access everything they require without the need to disconnect their rope line or lanyard, ensuring greater safety and compliance. With specialised intermediaries, this can incorporate bends or changes in direction for safe access across expansive working areas.

Temporary Static Lines

Temporary static lines are intended to be used as a short-term access solution where the installation of a permanent fall prevention system is deemed not reasonably practicable. Temporary static lines are often used for the construction, restoration or repair of buildings where access is only required to complete the job at hand such as roofing, open trenches, scaffolding and formwork. Most temporary static lines are suitable for fall restraint or work positioning only and are generally rated for a single user.

Temporary static lines consist of high-strength polyester webbing which is mounted between two appropriate anchor points, and a ratchet device for tensioning the system. As with permanent systems, the user is connected to the tensioned webbing via a specialised harness and lanyard, typically via an appropriately rated locking carabiner. Due to their portable nature, temporary static lines are typically limited to shorter spans which can restrict the access they provide or necessitate the use of multiple lines that the user must transfer between.

It is crucial to note that temporary static lines are not designed for regular long-term access. The ongoing use of a temporary system for continuous work may lead to serious safety risks and potential legal consequences. If temporary static lines are part of a fall prevention management solution, the Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) must ensure the selection and installation meet AS/NZS 1891.2 standards and comply with Australian work health and safety legislation.

The liability for temporary static lines primarily falls on the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as they have a legal duty to ensure a safe work environment for contractors and workers operating at height. If an incident were to occur due to an improperly installed or used temporary static line, the PCBU would ultimately be held accountable under work health and safety (WHS) laws across Australia.

PCBU’s Duty of Care & Liability for the use of temporary static lines

Under the Work Health and Safety Act and Regulations, the PCBU must:

• Ensure the person installing and using the temporary static line is competent and has the necessary training, qualifications, and experience.
• Assess and control risks related to working at height, including verifying that temporary systems comply with safety standards.
• Provide adequate supervision and safety procedures to prevent falls.
• Ensure the static line is correctly installed, maintained, and inspected to avoid system failures.

If a fall or incident occurs due to improper use or installation of a temporary static line, the PCBU could face legal consequences, including:

• Fines and penalties under WHS legislation.
• Prosecution for breaches of duty of care leading to injury or death.
• Potential civil liability if the injured worker or their family pursues legal action.

State-Specific Legislation Links

Each Australian state has specific Work Health and Safety Regulations outlining fall protection and PCBU responsibilities:

• Queensland: Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 – Section 78 (Managing fall risks)
• New South Wales: Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 – Part 4.4 (Falls)
• Victoria: Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 – Part 3.3 (Falls)
• South Australia: Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012 – Chapter 4, Part 4.4 (Falls)
• Western Australia: Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 – Part 4.4 (Falls)
• Tasmania: Work Health and Safety Regulations 2022 – Part 4.4 (Falls)
• Northern Territory: Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations – Part 4.4 (Falls)
• Australian Capital Territory: Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 – Part 4.4 (Falls)

While temporary static lines may appear to be a contractor’s responsibility, the PCBU is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the system is installed correctly, used safely, and compliant with regulations. Failure to do so can result in severe legal and financial consequences.

Temporary Static Lines must be mounted and tensioned by a competent person with the appropriate training and accreditation to ensure the system meets safety standards and the manufacturer’s specifications. Temporary static lines should be inspected by a competent person before each use, periodically throughout the job, and whenever environmental or work conditions change.

Advantages

• Versatility to adapt to changing use cases or use across multiple sites
• Highly portable and efficient to install
• Low set-up cost with zero ongoing costs once the job is completed

Disadvantages

• Not suitable for regular or ongoing use
• Not suitable for multiple users or fall arrest
• Shorter lifespan with more frequent inspection requirements
• Higher risk due to the importance of correct installation for every use
• Users will require basic training in safe system operation
• Limited span providing access over short distances

Temporary or Permanent: Which Static Line System is Right for Your Needs?

When deciding between a temporary and permanent static line system, start by evaluating the frequency and duration of your access needs:

Frequent, Ongoing Maintenance or Work: If you require regular access to the same elevated areas for routine maintenance or regular operations, a permanent static line offers better long-term value, reliability, and compliance. Although the initial cost may be higher, it will likely pay off in reduced downtime, improved worker efficiency, and fewer repeated installations over the lifespan of the building.

Short-Term or One-Off Projects: For infrequent tasks, emergency inspections, or short-term projects where a permanent system isn’t feasible, a temporary static line provides a flexible, cost-effective solution. Its portability and ease of setup make it ideal for work that doesn’t justify the investment in a permanent installation.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on the nature of your work, the structure of your site, and your long-term plans for accessing elevated areas. Consider consulting a height safety professional who can accurately assess your specific situation, ensure that your chosen solution complies with Australian Standards, and guide you toward a system that optimises both safety and efficiency. By making an informed choice, you’ll not only reduce risks and maintain legal compliance, but also ensure a more seamless and productive experience for everyone working at height.