European Standard · Fall Protection Equipment
EN 362 – Connectors for Fall Protection: The Complete Guide to the European Standard for Karabiners and Snap Hooks
EN 362 is the European standard specifying design, strength and marking requirements for connectors – karabiners, snap hooks and screw links – used to join the different components of a personal fall protection system. A connector is often the smallest part of the fall protection chain but a failure point here can compromise the entire system, making correct classification and use essential. This guide explains the connector classes, gate strength requirements and how to choose the right connector for each link in the chain.
1. Scope
EN 362 applies to connectors used to link components of personal fall protection equipment, such as joining a lanyard to a harness attachment point or a fall arrester to an anchor line. It specifies static strength, gate strength, and corrosion resistance requirements, along with a classification system describing the intended application of each connector type.
2. Exclusions & Related Standards
- Does not cover the harness itself – see EN 361 full body harnesses.
- Does not cover anchor devices – see EN 795 anchor devices.
- Does not cover guided type fall arresters – see EN 353 guided type fall arresters.
- General mountaineering or climbing karabiners not marked for PPE fall protection use should not be substituted for EN 362 connectors.
- Does not cover work positioning belts – see EN 358 work positioning and restraint belts.
3. Connector Classes
| Class T | Terminal connector, permanently attached at one end of a lanyard or subsystem |
| Class A | Anchor connector, designed to attach directly to a specific anchor device |
| Class B | Basic connector for general purpose linking of system components |
| Class M | Multi-use connector, rated for loading along both the major and minor axis |
| Class Q | Screw link (maillon), closed with a threaded sleeve rather than a spring gate |
| Class K | Connector for use with an anchor line or rail-based fall arrest system |
4. Requirements and Testing
- Major axis static strength testing, typically to at least 20–25 kN without failure
- Gate strength testing to confirm the gate remains closed and locked under load
- Minor axis (side loading) testing for connectors intended for multi-directional use (Class M)
- Corrosion resistance testing for outdoor and marine environments
- Clear marking including manufacturer, standard reference, class and maximum rated load
5. Selecting the Right Connector
Selecting a connector depends on where it sits in the fall protection chain: a connector attaching directly to an anchor point should be Class A, a general link between a lanyard and harness is typically Class B, and a connector that may be loaded from multiple directions during use should be Class M for added safety margin. Screw links (Class Q) are often used for permanent or rarely-disconnected joins where accidental gate opening must be eliminated.
6. Inspection, Care and Maintenance
- Check the gate opens and closes smoothly and the locking mechanism engages fully before each use
- Inspect for cracks, deformation, sharp burrs or corrosion on the body and gate
- Have connectors formally inspected by a competent person at least annually
- Remove from service immediately after any fall arrest event or significant impact
- Avoid cross-loading or side-loading connectors not rated Class M
7. Product Examples
- Screw-gate karabiners for harness-to-lanyard connections (Class B)
- Twist-lock or double-action snap hooks for anchor connections (Class A)
- Multi-directional karabiners for confined space and rescue work (Class M)
- Steel screw links for permanent system joins (Class Q)
- Rail-trolley connectors for use with guided type fall arresters (Class K)
8. Standard Information
- Status: Active European standard (EN 362)
- ICS code: 13.340.60
- Committee: CEN/TC 160
- Related standards: EN 361, EN 795, EN 353, EN 358
- See the full EN Standards Library for all safety equipment standards
Frequently Asked Questions about EN 362
What does the EN 362 standard cover?
EN 362 specifies requirements, testing and marking for connectors such as karabiners, snap hooks and screw links used to join components of a personal fall protection system.
What is the difference between Class B and Class M connectors?
Class B connectors are for general purpose single-axis loading, while Class M connectors are tested and rated for loading along both the major and minor axis, suitable for multi-directional use.
Can a regular climbing karabiner be used for fall protection?
No, only connectors specifically tested and marked to EN 362 should be used in a personal fall protection system, since climbing karabiners are certified to different standards and use cases.
What does Class Q mean on a connector?
Class Q refers to a screw link (maillon) that is closed using a threaded sleeve rather than a spring-loaded gate, often used for semi-permanent connections.
How often should connectors be inspected?
Connectors should be checked before each use for smooth gate operation and visible damage, and formally inspected by a competent person at least once a year.
What load rating do EN 362 connectors typically have?
Most EN 362 connectors are tested to a major axis static strength of at least 20-25 kN, though the exact rating is always marked on the connector body.
Should a connector be replaced after a fall?
Yes, any connector involved in a fall arrest event or subjected to a significant impact should be removed from service and inspected or replaced immediately.