U.S. Markets for Fall Protection Equipment

Abstract

Price-sensitive End-users Compromising on Quality Poses Challenges to the Fall Protection Equipment Markets

Price-sensitive end-users in the fall protection equipment markets are spurring demand for low-line products, forcing market participants to re-evaluate their product portfolios. The obligation, especially of medium and small-sized companies, to comply with the standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has encouraged the introduction of cheaper equipment that have lower production costs and also compromise on quality. To compete within the market, larger manufacturers are offering a minimal price 'compliance' product lines along with their original offerings.

This Frost & Sullivan research service examines the U.S. markets for fall protection equipment. It provides detailed insights into recent developments and trends. The study also discusses the prevailing market drivers, industry challenges, and offers an overview of the market shares and revenues.

Increasing Consumer Awareness and Stringent Safety Regulations Expected to Bolster the Market

New, stringent standards within the fall protection equipment industry, along with major changes in end-user attitudes will drive the market and make fall protection a more highly regarded investment. OSHA is adopting various methods of increasing awareness among end-users concerning the safety merits of using this equipment as well as the consequences of failing to do so. Educating apprentices and new employees, conducting internal sessions for existing employees, and disseminating information through aggressive marketing are all part of the awareness raising process.

"Firsthand experience is also proving to be a great force in creating demand. As end-users, themselves, encounter mishaps, through personal experience or through that of a co-worker or friend, they begin to appreciate that such incidents could well have been avoided by utilizing proper fall protection equipment," says the analyst of the research service.

Product Differentiation and Third-party Certification Likely to Positively Affect the Markets

A number of companies in the U.S. fall protection equipment market are reducing prices to lure business away from their competition. With enterprises struggling to optimize resources and rise above shrinking profit margins, companies that can differentiate their products and services from those of their competitors are more likely to succeed.

In addition, the larger manufacturers are advocating for third-party certification standards for the industry. "This can increase the product expense for smaller participants as well as extend the time required to get the product to the market," says the analyst. "If the trend toward supplier consolidation continues, then the prospect of third-party certification is likely to increase as well, thereby magnifying the challenges to smaller manufacturers."