A self-retracting lanyard including a main body and a retractable line. The retractable line is coupled to the main body so as to be extendible and retractable relative to the main body and to be restricted from extending relative to the main body in response to a user of the self-retracting lanyard falling. The self-retracting lanyard further includes a manual control operable by the user to initiate controlled descent of the retractable line relative to the main body. The manual control may be operable by the user to deliver a fluid (e.g. compressed gas) from a fluid supply disposed in a housing of the manual control to an actuator of the main body to initiate controlled descent. Solar panel(s) may be disposed on the main body. When the retractable line is retracted, the housing may dock with and be charged by a solar powered charger disposed on the main body.