TECHNICAL / PRODUCTS
New EN 360:2023 standard: understanding the new standard and the changes
19.05.2026
EN 360 : 2023
Retractable type fall arresters are changing (1/2)
Protection against falls from a height is based on a simple principle: selecting the right equipment, for the right application, in the right environment.
Among the most widely used solutions, retractable type fall arresters, also called to as SRLs, play an essential role. They allow the user to move while remaining connected to an anchorage structure. The lanyard, whether webbing or cable, follows the user’s movements and locks automatically in the event of a fall. This equipment is covered by EN 360, a new version of which was published at the end of 2023.
This change does not mean that older products become unusable. Rather, it marks an important step forward: the standard becomes more precise, clearer and better suited to situations encountered in the field.
At NEOFEU, this transition is accompanied by the gradual development of our retractable type fall arresters, their markings, their instructions for use and certain product references.
Your products remain compliant
Before looking at the changes, it is important to clear up a common misunderstanding:
A retractable type fall arrester certified to EN 360:2002 does not become non-compliant simply because a new version of the standard exists.
Products already manufactured, placed on the market or used in accordance with the previous version remain compliant, provided that the usual rules applicable to PPE for protection against falls from a height are followed:
- Use the product in accordance with its instructions for use;
- Comply with its service life;
- Carry out pre-use checks;
- Carry out mandatory periodic inspections;
- Withdraw the product from service in the event of a fall, doubt or any defect identified.
The key date to remember is 8 April 2026. From this date, the transition to the new standard becomes effective for all new manufacturing covered by EN 360.
The objective is therefore to support the gradual transition from EN 360:2002 to EN 360:2023.
EN 360: 2002
EN 360: 2023
Why a new version of the standard?
The previous version of EN 360 dated back to 2002. In more than twenty years, products have evolved, and field practices have evolved too.
Retractable type fall arresters are now used in a wide variety of configurations: vertical work, horizontal movement, MEWP operations, overhead or low anchorage, twin devices, models with retrieval function, and so on.
EN 360:2023 therefore provides a better framework for these situations. It does not simply state that a product is a retractable type fall arrester. It seeks to specify more clearly the conditions under which it may be used.
This is an important development, which also makes it possible to bring together within the standard all RFUs (Recommendation for Use Sheets) relating to new working conditions.
What you need to remember
EN 360:2023 provides more detailed information on permitted uses, limits of use and the information visible on the product.
In practical terms, it makes it easier to identify:
- The permitted housing position;
- The possible configurations of use;
- Limitations relating to anchorage;
- The minimum and maximum user masses;
- Specific applications, such as certain horizontal use configurations or factor 2 use;
- Any restrictions;
- Points requiring particular attention, especially where sharp edges are present.
This development makes product use configurations easier to understand. The user can more easily check whether the selected fall arrester is genuinely suited to the workstation.
What this changes at NEOFEU
This change in the standard forms part of a continuous product improvement approach.
The transition to EN 360:2023 involves comprehensive work on the retractable type fall arresters concerned: testing, certification, marking, instructions for use, product identification and commercial information.
The changes include:
- New certification to EN 360:2023;
- Updated marking;
- Integration of new pictograms;
- Clarification of permitted configurations;
- Addition or highlighting of user mass ranges;
- Updated instructions for use;
- Changes to certain references; creation or adjustment of some range names.
The objective is simple: to offer a range that is clearer, more consistent and easier to select in order to comply with the conditions of use.
PART 2
In a second part, we will look in more detail at NEOFEU developments: markings, pictograms, references and the characteristics of our retractable type fall arrester range.
About NEOFEU
NEOFEU designs, manufactures and tests in France high-quality, high-performance and durable safety equipment for professionals working at height with fall hazard.
Since 1954, our teams have been working to offer the best safety equipment and solutions, in compliance with the current regulations and standards.
NEOFEU meets your expectations in terms of quality, customization and adaptation to harsh environments and extreme contexts of your operations.
NEOFEU is also the long-standing leader in load arresters, securing loads from 30 kg to 5 tonnes and equipping France's finest theatres and many major industrial sites.