European Standard · Fall Protection Equipment
EN 358 – Work Positioning and Restraint Belts: The Complete Guide to the European Standard for Positioning Systems
EN 358 is the European standard specifying requirements, testing and marking for belts and lanyards used in work positioning and restraint systems, allowing a worker to be supported in a hands-free position or prevented from reaching a fall hazard altogether. Unlike fall arrest equipment, EN 358 systems are not designed to arrest a free fall, making correct application essential for safety. This guide explains the difference between restraint and work positioning, the requirements of the standard, and how to select and maintain the right belt.
1. Scope
EN 358 applies to belts (with or without a work positioning lanyard) used either to restrain a worker from reaching a zone where a fall hazard exists, or to support a worker in tension against an anchor point so both hands remain free for tasks such as working at a pole, tower or vertical surface. It specifies strength, adjustment and marking requirements for both the belt and its side attachment points.
2. Exclusions & Related Standards
- Must never be used as fall arrest equipment – that requires a full body harness meeting EN 361.
- Does not cover connectors – see EN 362 connectors.
- Does not cover anchor devices – see EN 795 anchor devices.
- Does not cover guided type fall arresters – see EN 353 guided type fall arresters.
- Many products combine an EN 358 belt with an EN 361 harness in one integrated garment for both restraint and fall arrest capability.
3. Restraint vs Work Positioning
| Restraint | Lanyard length is fixed so the worker physically cannot reach the edge or hazard zone – no fall is possible |
| Work Positioning | Belt and lanyard hold the worker in tension against a structure, freeing both hands, while a separate backup fall arrest system is normally still required |
4. Requirements and Testing
- Static strength testing of the belt, side D-rings and buckles under load
- Adjuster and buckle testing to confirm secure fastening and resistance to accidental release
- Lanyard length and adjustment mechanism testing for work positioning applications
- Comfort padding requirements for extended periods in a positioned stance
- Clear marking of the CE mark, standard reference and side attachment point locations
5. Selecting the Right Belt System
Selecting an EN 358 system starts with identifying whether the task is pure restraint (preventing access to an edge) or work positioning (hands-free support against a structure like a pole or tower). Work positioning tasks should always be backed up with a separate fall arrest system meeting EN 361, since a positioning belt alone is not designed to arrest a fall if the primary support fails. Comfort padding and freedom of movement should also be considered for tasks requiring extended positioning time.
6. Inspection, Care and Maintenance
- Inspect webbing, buckles and side D-rings before each use for wear, cuts or corrosion
- Check the lanyard adjustment mechanism operates smoothly and locks securely
- Have the belt formally inspected by a competent person at least annually
- Remove from service immediately after any significant fall or shock load event
- Store away from sharp edges, chemicals and prolonged UV exposure
7. Product Examples
- Padded work positioning belts for pole and tower access
- Restraint lanyards with fixed length for roof edge protection
- Combination harnesses with integrated EN 358 side D-rings and EN 361 dorsal point
- Adjustable positioning lanyards for utility and telecom work
- Rope access positioning systems for confined vertical structures
8. Standard Information
- Status: Active European standard (EN 358)
- ICS code: 13.340.60
- Committee: CEN/TC 160
- Related standards: EN 361, EN 362, EN 795, EN 353
- See the full EN Standards Library for all safety equipment standards
Frequently Asked Questions about EN 358
What does the EN 358 standard cover?
EN 358 specifies requirements, testing and marking for belts and lanyards used in work positioning and restraint systems that support a worker or prevent them reaching a fall hazard.
What is the difference between restraint and work positioning?
Restraint uses a fixed-length lanyard to physically prevent the worker reaching an edge or hazard, while work positioning holds the worker in tension against a structure so both hands are free for tasks.
Can an EN 358 belt be used to arrest a fall?
No, EN 358 belts are not designed or tested for fall arrest forces; a full body harness meeting EN 361 must be used whenever there is a risk of a free fall.
Do I need a backup fall arrest system when work positioning?
Yes, work positioning should always be backed up with a separate fall arrest system in case the primary positioning support fails.
How often should a positioning belt be inspected?
Belts should be checked before each use and formally inspected by a competent person at least annually, or immediately after any significant shock load.
Can EN 358 and EN 361 be combined in one product?
Yes, many harnesses integrate EN 358 side D-rings for positioning alongside an EN 361 dorsal point for fall arrest in a single garment.
What tasks commonly use EN 358 work positioning belts?
Utility pole climbing, tower and mast work, and other tasks requiring the worker to lean back into support while using both hands commonly rely on EN 358 systems.