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How does the fall protection via ferrata set work?

A fall on a via ferrata can be extremely powerful because you're usually climbing above the last belay point. Without shock absorption, that force would be dangerous for both your body and the equipment.

What's inside the shock absorber?

Inside the shock absorber is a rolled-up webbing loop with special stitching. In the event of a fall, these stitches tear open gradually, absorbing energy and significantly reducing the force on your body.

Main components:

  1. Folded webbing
    A strong textile webbing that folds compactly.
  2. Control stitching
    Special seams that tear in a controlled manner in the event of a fall.
  3. Protective cover
    Keeps the webbing protected from dirt, UV rays, and wear.

The shock absorber works as follows:

  1. A fall occurs
    You fall and the carabiner gets caught on the cable.
  2. The shock absorber is loaded
    The force pulls on the sewn-in webbing package.
  3. The strap tears open in a controlled manner.
    The seams tear gradually.
    The strap rolls or pulls out of the pack.
    This absorbs the energy of the fall.
  4. The fall is decelerated.
    The maximum force on the body is limited (normally < ~6 kN according to the standard).

        

 

 

 

 

After a fall in which the shock absorber is opened, the entire via ferrata set must be replaced.

Important to know

A via ferrata set only functions properly when used with a climbing harness and helmet.
The set is designed according to the EN 958 standard.
Modern sets are tested for users weighing approximately 40–120 kg (including equipment).

CanyonZone Knowledge base Via Ferrata / Klettersteig: Go Back.

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