Elevating safety

PSA Africa has witnessed remarkable transformations in working-at-heights safety standards and technologies over the years. At the forefront of these advancements is the temporary horizontal lifeline (THLL), a game-changing innovation that enhances safety, mobility, and compliance across industries.

THLLs are safety systems designed to provide an anchorage line for workers at height, ensuring they remain adjacent to the fall edge while minimising fall distance. These lifelines are typically set up alongside edges where work is being performed, allowing users to connect to the lifeline and reduce the risk of pendulum effects during a fall. “The MSA THLL offers a continuous fall arrest system, ensuring workers remain protected as they move,” says Kerry van Kerken, branch manager for PSA Africa, which has partnered with MSA Safety for over two decades. She notes that, unlike traditional setups that require complex tensioning and multiple anchor points, THLLs provide: 

• Tool-less setup: They’re quick and easy to install. No specialised tools are required, reducing downtime.

• Minimised swing falls: This enhances mobility and safety compared to traditional lanyard systems.

• Customisable lengths: This makes THLLs configurable to suit different job site needs. 

• Lightweight and portable design: They’re easy to transport, install, and dismantle, making them ideal for temporary work sites. 

• Versatile mounting options: THLLs are adaptable to various anchor points in construction, maintenance, and industrial environments. 

Compliance and cost efficiency 

Van Kerken adds that MSA’s THLL meets various international safety standards – including those from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), European Standards (EN), and the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) mark – ensuring companies maintain compliance while optimising safety. 

“Additionally, its durability and minimal need for multiple anchor points make it a cost-effective investment. Companies benefit from lower installation expenses, long-term reliability, and enhanced worker productivity due to increased mobility and confidence,” she emphasises. 

Comprehensive fall protection solutions 

While the THLL is a standout product, PSA Africa offers a full suite of fall protection equipment, including full-body harnesses, energy-absorbing lanyards, self-retracting lanyards, and confined space entry solutions (such as the Xtirpa range for both horizontal and vertical confined space entries). “Through our collaboration with global OEM supplier MSA Safety, PSA Africa ensures clients receive certified, industry-leading solutions tailored to their needs,” Van Kerken points out. 

Beyond equipment supply 

Selecting the right fall protection system is just the beginning, however. Van Kerken adds that PSA Africa guides clients through every stage before, during, and after the purchasing process. “Before, we help to assess site-specific hazards and select the right equipment; during, we ensure products meet safety standards and integrate seamlessly with existing systems; and after, we provide training, inspections, and maintenance support to extend equipment lifespan and reinforce a strong safety culture,” she expands. 

“The working-at-heights sector continues to evolve, with companies facing regulatory updates and industry-specific risks. PSA Africa stays ahead of this curve by offering tailored safety solutions and proactive compliance support, ensuring clients are always equipped with the latest innovations.” 

Looking to the future, Van Kerken expects that fall protection will focus on enhanced safety, ease of use, and integrated training solutions. “PSA Africa remains committed to driving innovation and providing industry-leading products like the MSA THLL, setting new standards in working-at-heights safety,” she says.