EN360:2023 vs. EN360:2002: What's Changing in Fall Arrest Standards and Why the Market Is Moving Toward Horizontal-Use SRLs
As job sites become more complex and safety expectations continue to rise, retractable fall arresters (Self-Retracting Lifelines, SRLs) are undergoing a major shift driven by the updated EN360:2023 standard. Replacing the long-standing EN360:2002, the new version aligns fall protection equipment with today's real-world work conditions—particularly the growing demand for horizontal-use SRLs.
Below is a clear breakdown of what has changed, how the market is responding, and how Redwood is preparing for the next phase of global safety requirements.
1. Key Differences Between EN360:2002 and EN360:2023
The updated EN360:2023 standard introduces stronger and more realistic performance requirements. The most notable improvements include:
- More comprehensive testing conditions
EN360:2023 adds testing at various angles, directions, edge conditions, and friction scenarios to better reflect actual hazards seen on rooftops, steel structures, and elevated platforms. This ensures consistent braking performance in both vertical and horizontal use. - Enhanced durability and weather resistance
Stricter corrosion, UV, and temperature resistance testing guarantees reliability for long-term outdoor use—an increasingly critical factor for modern worksites. - Clearer labeling and documentation
Manufacturers must now provide detailed instructions, maintenance guidelines, and lifespan information, giving end users and safety managers clearer visibility and traceability.
2. Market Shift: EN360:2023 Demand Is Rising—Especially for Horizontal Use
Although EN360:2002 products still remain available during the transition period, the market trend is clear:
More customers—especially in Europe and North America—are actively seeking EN360:2023-compliant SRLs.
This shift is driven by:
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new safety protocols requiring edge-tested and horizontal-use SRLs
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rising awareness of side-loading and edge impact risks
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large contractors preparing for future compliance requirements
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distributors and OEM brands favoring products aligned with emerging global standards
As a result, horizontal-use SRLs have become one of the fastest-growing categories in fall protection, with demand increasing far quicker than in previous years.
3. Vertical vs. Horizontal Use: Why the Industry Is Evolving
SRLs have traditionally been designed for vertical applications—such as tower climbing, scaffolding, and warehouse work.
But modern job sites now involve more low-edge and rooftop environments, where the lifeline may move horizontally across surfaces.
This creates added challenges:
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increased cable abrasion
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sharper edge radius
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higher fall angles
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delayed braking response
EN360:2023 directly addresses these hazards, making certified horizontal-use SRLs the new benchmark for elevated safety.
4. Redwood's Development: EN360:2023 Horizontal-Use SRL in Progress
To support customers preparing for this industry shift, Redwood is actively developing a new EN360:2023-certified SRL designed specifically for horizontal use.
Key development focus areas include:
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Edge-tested performance for demanding rooftop and steel-structure environments
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Consistent braking response across different directions and angles
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Improved durability and corrosion resistance for outdoor conditions
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Lightweight structural design optimized for OEM and B2B integration
Our goal is to provide distributors, safety brands, and industrial partners with a next-generation SRL that meets both regulatory expectations and real-world jobsite demands.
5. Looking Ahead: EN360:2023 Will Become the New Standard
As EN360:2023 adoption accelerates, companies that upgrade early will achieve:
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higher safety compliance
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reduced liability
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stronger product differentiation
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readiness for future regulations and audits
The market is moving quickly, and horizontal-capable SRLs are expected to become the preferred choice for industries such as construction, utilities, oil & gas, manufacturing, and infrastructure maintenance. Now you can...
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