fallbridging

Fallbridging is a safety and construction concept used to describe bridging solutions that span gaps or edges at height to prevent falls. These systems can be temporary or semi-permanent and are implemented on construction sites, maintenance projects, and other elevated work environments where a fall hazard exists. Fallbridges are designed to provide a stable walking surface or passage, enabling personnel and equipment to move safely across gaps without compromising access to work areas.

A fallbridge typically consists of a deck or platform, anchor points, and edge protection. Materials include steel, aluminum, or engineered composites, chosen for load capacity, weather resistance, and portability. The system is designed to distribute loads across supporting structures and to integrate with existing fall protection measures such as guardrails, toe boards, safety nets, or harness-based systems.

Applications include roof work, bridge inspections, facade maintenance, crane or rigging operations, and any scenario where equipment must traverse a gap at height. The approach is common in sectors such as construction, infrastructure maintenance, and industrial plant operations.

Operational considerations include risk assessment, inspection before use, and training for workers. Fallbridging is not a substitute for fall arrest or restraint systems where residual risk remains; rather, it complements other controls to minimize fall distance and exposure. Proper installation, regular inspection, and coordination with safety management are essential to its effectiveness.

The term fallbridging appears in safety manuals and project-specification documents in some regions, though usage varies by industry. Related concepts include guardrails, fall protection, temporary works, and safety nets.