2021 Fall Protection Field Guide

2021 Fall Protection Field Guide

MAKE FALL PROTECTION SIMPLE • ROAD & BRIDGE • OFFSHORE RIGS • WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTION • CORROSIVE HAZARDS • FLAME & ARC FLASH • RESCUE & RETRIEVAL • LEADING EDGE

FIELD GUIDE HOW TO KNOW WHAT YOU NEED FALL PROTECTION

1

Table of Contents

Knowing that you need Fall Protection is often the easy part. Most of the time it's obvious. Knowing WHAT you need, and WHY you need it tends to complicate things. This guide is designed to break down into it's constituent elements the process of selecting effective Fall Protection. We'll tell you when you need it, what your options are, and why one form of equipment might be better suited to your job than another. We'll also outline the OSHA requirements for equipment of this type, and identify the applicable ANSI standards - including the newest update - and why they are so important. Fall Protection can be confusing. And intimidating. And technical. There'smath, diagrams, LOTS of D-Rings, and oftenmore questions than answers.

CONTENTS

1 - 3

Introduction/TOC Hierarchy of Controls

3

4 - 7

OSHA&ANSI Standards

8

Applications

9 - 11

Anchorages

12 - 14

Harnesses

15 - 19

ConnectingDevices

21 - 23

Horizontal Systems

24 - 25

Leading Edge

26 - 27

Product Recommendations

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Fall Hazard Hierarchy of Controls

Don't Take Unnecessary Risks!

The most effective course of action is always to ELIMINATE OR PREVENT THE POSSIBILITY OF A FALL. The proper use of Personal Fall Protection PPE (Full Body Harnesses, Lanyards, etc.) is an effective means of mitigating the risks associated with the effects of a fall; but, as with other PPE, should always be considered a last resort. There are several degrees of effective fall protection that exist between those two extremes - these measures are subjective, and their degree of effectiveness is directly related to the area and conditions under which they are employed.

ELIMINATE OR PREVENT EXPOSURE LOWEST RISK

PASSIVE FALL PROTECTION

ACTIVE FALL PROTECTION

TRAVEL RESTRAINT SYSTEMS

FALL ARREST SYSTEMS

HIGHEST RISK

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3

Applicable Standards

OSHA was formed in 1970 by the United States Congress with the goal of creating safer environments for workers. OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration . The organiza- tion sets, maintains, and enforces regulations, and funds services for training and guidance to employees and companies. The primary OSHA standards that pertain to Fall Protection equipment and practices are referenced in the 1910 and 1926 standards. OSHA 1910 Subpart D: Walking Working Surfaces According to OSHA, general industry workers are exposed to walking and work surface hazards that can result in slips, trips, falls, and other injuries or fatalities. The requirements under Subpart D, "Walking - Working Surfaces," provided employers with the flexibility to decide which fall protection method or system works best for the work operation. OSHA says that these multiple options, along with required inspections and training, help employers prevent and elimi- nate walking-working surface hazards. OSHA's revisions to Subpart D, "Walking-Working Surfaces," included a reorganization of the existing rule to make it clearer, necessitating a reformat of the entire subpart (29 CFR 1910.21 - .30). The most significant changes covered NEW requirements for a variety of walking-working surfaces throughout Subpart D, as well as introducing additional new requirements under other general industry standards, including Subpart I, "Personal Protective Equipment " (see below). Subpart D required employers to : • Identify and evaluate slip hazards, trip hazards, and fall hazards in the workplace. • Provide appropriate personal protective equipment or fall protection systems • Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of all walking-working surfaces in the workplace • Provide training that enables employees to recognize the hazards of falling and the procedures to be followed to minimize these hazards, including the use of personal fall protection OSHA 1910 Subpart I: Personal Protective Equipment This section deals specifically with PPE. Within the nine subsections, Personal Fall Protection Systems are addressed in section 1910.140. • Section 1910.140(b) provides a comprehensive list of definitions for both equipment and practices specific to Personal Fall Arrest Systems • Section 1910.140(c) provides specific guidelines for employers outlining the requirements that components, systems, and use of Personal Fall Arrest equipment must meet • Section 1910.140(d) provides specific system use criteria and performance standards • Section 1910.140(e) addresses specifics regarding practice, use, and performance of Positioning Systems OSHA 1926 Subpart M: Construction This subpart sets forth requirements and criteria for Fall Protection in construction workplaces covered under 29 CFR part 1926. The provisions of the subpart do not apply when employees are making an in- spection, investigation, or assessment of workplace conditions prior to the actual start of construction work or after all construction work has been completed.

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Applicable Standards

• Section 1926.500 outlines the scope, applications, and definitions applicable to the subpart • Section 1926.501 outlines an employer’s Duty to Have Fall Protection • Section 1926.502 covers Fall Protection Systems Criteria and Practices • Section 1926.503 lists all applicable Training Requirements. Five appendices (A through F) further expand on the subpart, specifically referencing Roof Widths, Guardrail Systems, Personal Fall Arrest Systems, Positioning Device Systems, and a Sample Fall Protection Plan. While not particularly riveting reading, both of these standards and the referenced subparts comprehensively cover everything relevant to Fall Protection requirements in the workplace.

ANSI - American National Standards Institute ASSP - American Society of Safety Professionals

The American National Standards Institute is a private non-profit organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for products, services, processes, systems, and personnel in the United States. The organization also coordinates U.S. standards with international standards so that American products can be used worldwide. ANSI accredits standards that are developed by representatives of other standards organizations, government agencies, consumer groups, companies, and others such as the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) . These standards ensure that the characteristics and performance of products are consistent, that people use the same definitions and terms, and that products are tested the same way. ANSI/ASSP Z359.1-2016 is known as the Fall Protection Code . It is a consensus standard, and does not bear the force of the law. It was developed for ANSI by the Z359 Accredited Standards Committee, and is managed by the ASSP . The committee is comprised of various interest groups, including safety professionals, manufacturers, and fall protection users. The code is comprised of 15 different standards focused on specific processes or products. Therecentlyupdated ANSI/ASSPZ359.14-2021 standardestablishesrequirementsfor theperformance, design, marking, qualification, instruction, training, test methods, inspection use, maintenance and removal from service of self-retracting devices. This update to Z359.14 includes revisions and new requirements, including: • A change to the device types defined in the standard • Changes to previously established classifications of device types • A 20% increase in minimum static strength requirements • More rigorous energy-management requirements • Changes to labeling requirements • Inclusion of Guidance for the End-User (Appendix B) Standards in the code go beyond the requirements of OSHA Fall Protection regulations, and generally have stronger and more comprehensive requirements. Each standard is typically updated every five to ten years, and are concurrent with new practices and technologies; whereas OSHA regulations tend to struggle to keep up.

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5

Applicable Standards

SRD's - Self Retracting Devices Self Retracting Devices (SRD’s) is a general term used describe 3 different types of devices, which are defined as: “A device that contains a drum-wound line that automatically locks at the onset of a fall to arrest the user, but that pays out from and automatically retracts onto the drum during normal movement of the person to whom the line is attached. After the onset of a fall, the device automatically locks the drum and arrests the fall. Self-Retracting Devices include Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRL’s), Self-Retracting Lanyards with integral rescue capability (SRL-R’s) and Self-Retracting Lanyards with leading edge capability, and hybrid combinations of these.” SRL’s - Self Retracting Lanyards Self-retracting lanyards are intended to be mounted to a fixed anchorage, horizontal lifeline, or rail system or trolley. They’re generally mounted overhead, and can be rigged to limit free-fall to a maximum of two feet. These devices provide a degree of lateral and vertical movement for the user. SRL-R’s - Self-Retracting Lanyards with Integral Rescue Capability This type consists of a self-retracting lanyard with an integral rescue capability. This capability uses an integral retrieval winch, which will allow a fallen or injured worker to be raised or lowered. These devices are most commonly used in confined space applications. They may be used interchangeably with SRL’s, provided that the rescuer has access to the rescue mechanism. SRL-LE - Self-Retracting Lanyards - Leading Edge Self-retracting lanyards for leading edge exposures are required to have a supplemental energy absorber at the point of attachment to the user’s FBH back D-ring. These units are designed to protect steel erectors who may be exposed to leading edge falls. They often feature a larger diameter wire rope constituent line to resist cutting and abrasion. These devices should be used as a last resort, as the application has a high degree of risk. Also, the qualification testing required by the ANSI Z359.14 standard is not comprehensive. It doesn’t anticipate hazards that may be damaging to the SRL line, such as unbeveled concrete, metal decking and joints, or gaps between beams and columns. Self Retracting Device Classes There are also two classes that are specified in the ANSI Z359.14 standard that apply to the SRL , SRL-R and the SRL-P : Class A devices , when subjected to dynamic performance testing, should have an arrest distance not exceeding 24 inches, a maximum arrest force of 1,800 pounds, and an average arrest force of 1,350 pounds. Class B devices , when subjected to dynamic performance testing, should have an arrest distance not exceeding 54 inches, a maximum arrest force of 1,800 pounds, and an average arrest force of 900 pounds. ANSI Z359 Definitions & Classes: Current Until August 2022 The recently updated ANSI/ASSP Z359.14-2021 standard mentioned on the previous page has been released, but will not become effective until August of 2022. The revised definitions and classes de - fined by the standard are included in this guide in the CONNECTING DEVICES section on pages 16 & 17. We have chosen to reference these definitions and classes with regards to the equipment outlined in this guide in anticipation of the standard's effective date.

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Applicable Standards

ANSI Standard Update: Breaking It All Down Below is comparison of a few of the differences between the current and revised standard. The full text is available for purchase at https://webstore.ansi.org/Standards/ASSE/ANSIASSPZ359142021 . Current Revised SRD: General term used to describe three types of devices SRD: General term used to describe three types of devices Devices Types: SRL, SRL-R, SRL-LE Devices Types: SRL, SRL-R, SRL-P Two Classes that apply to the SRL, & SRL-R. Two Classes that apply to ALL SRD's Classes (A & B) specify performance requirements & arrest distances under specific testing conditions Classes (1 & 2) specify conditions for use of devices based on application and potential risk New Device Type: SRL-P - Self Retracting Lanyard, Personal While "Personal SRL" has been a term in the industry for years, it was considered an unofficial subset of general SRLs and not categorized as a device type. The new standard introduces an official SRL-P type with new testing requirements to encourage safe use by the end-user. (See Pages 16 & 17) Leading Edge Devices VS. Class 2 Devices The SRL-LE device type has been removed in favor of an all-encompassing Class system that is used for all SRD types. For example, instead of a Personal device being classified as a SRL-LE, it will instead be considered a Class 2 SRL-P. This also opens the possibility for SRL's and SRL-R's to be considered Class 2 should they pass the testing requirements. Please note: not all current SRL-LE devices on the market will meet the Class 2 requirements. (See Pages 16 & 17) Additional Changes There are additional testing requirements that are included to improve factors of safety in an effort to address predicable vulnerabilities. These include: • An energy capacity test for Class 1 SRL-P's requiring them to be subjected to a six-foot vertical free fall while limiting arrest forces and arrest distance. • A battery of tests for dual-configuration SRL-P's to qualify them in a manner similar to the conditions the dual energy-absorbing lanyards are subjected to in Z359.13. • Specific testing requirements for the connecting element used to affix SRL-Ps to full body harnesses. • A locking strength test for SRDs relying on textile energy absorbers to manage arresting forces. The requirements for markings and instructions also feature some key updates, which include: • More detailed disclosures with respect to arrest distances and clearance requirements. • SRD class icons similar in nature to the marking requirements for energy-absorbing lanyards. • Explicit warnings regarding the hazards associated with foot-level tie-off and contact with structural edges. As previously stated, the revised standard does not go into effect until August 2022, and may be subject to change. See pages 16 & 17 of this guide for revised definitions and classes.

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7

Applications

TherearethreeprimaryapplicationsrelatedtotheuseofFallProtectionequipment. • Restraint • Work Positioning • Personal Fall Arrest While other applications do exist; these three are overwhelmingly the most common. Below are definitions of each of these applications, lifted directly from the OSHA standards in place for Fall Protection.

Restraint

A Fall Restraint System means a fall protection system that prevents the user from falling any distance. The system is comprised of either a body belt or body harness, along with an anchorage, connectors and other necessary equipment. The other components typically include a lanyard, and may also include a lifeline and other devices.

Work Positioning

A Positioning Device System means a body belt or body harness rigged to allow an employee to be supported on an elevated, vertical surface, such as a wall or column and work with both hands free while leaning. (Systems such as this typically are used in conjunction with a Personal Fall Arrest System , or are utilized in applications where Fall Protection is not a requirement).

Personal Fall Arrest

A Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) is a system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level. A personal fall arrest system consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combination of these. The use of a body belt for fall arrest is prohibited.

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Anchorages ANCHORAGES

Definitions

The physical structure or object that you will be attaching an Anchorage Connector (and the connected subsystem) to. Anchorages have very specific requirements (see below). Anchorage or Anchor Point The piece of equipment that connects the requisite components of your Personal Fall Arrest System to the Anchor Point. Anchorage Connectors come in a wide variety of shapes sizes and configurations (see below). Ultimately, it is the device which creates the requisite systemic relationship between all of the other components in the system. Anchorage Connector

AnchorageConnector (SlidingBeamAnchor)

Anchorage (Beam)

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9

What Qualifies as a Safe Anchorage Point for a PFAS?

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) defines the parameters for a safe anchorage point in Section 1910.66 (Appendix C) as follows: “Anchorages to which personal fall arrest equipment is attached shall be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) per employee attached, or shall be designed, installed, and used as part of a complete personal fall arrest systemwhich maintains a safety factor of at least two, under the supervision of a qualified person.” “The anchorage should be rigid, and should not have a deflection greater than .04 inches (1 mm) when a force of 2,250 pounds (10 kN) is applied.” The regulation intentionally keys in on “5,000 pounds per attached employee,” because it is extremely likely that a person who is NOT an engineer will survey a location and make a good faith assessment (literally an uneducated guess) that a particular anchorage can bear a 5,000 pound load. Moral: Just eyeballing it doesn't always work. The “or” statement that mentions “the design of a system to a safety factor of at least two, under the supervision of a qualified person” is only important to the Qualified Person who engineers complete fall protection systems. As long as the individual designing a system is a “Qualified Person” as defined by OSHA and ANSI Z359, they can engineer a “complete personal fall arrest system” to a safety factor of two. Again the engineer must be in conformance with the “Qualified Person” requirement as defined by OSHA. This means the fall protection system will be safe, but not over-designed. When choosing an anchor point, remember these things: • The strongest option should always be your first choice • Steel members are preferable to almost anything else • Wood may be acceptable as a temporary anchor, but MUST be engineer-certified • Anchor bolts, through-bolts and plate washers should always be inspected by a qualified person • Equipment such as eyebolts, turnbuckles, embeds, beam clamps etc. may also be used and should be carefully inspected and evaluated for load bearing capacity (if they were not originally designed for use as fall protection equipment)

Anchorage Strength Requirements: 3,000lbs VS 5,000 lbs

3,600 lbs

5,000 lbs

• The minimum required anchor breaking strength for certified/engineered anchors • This number is representative of the anchor achieving the required 2:1 strength ratio required by OSHA and ANSI • The maximum permitted arresting force for fall pro- tection systems is 1,800 lbs (1,800 X 2 = 3,600)

• Minimum required anchorage connector breaking strength for non-certified anchors (per ANSI) for a Personal Fall Arrest application • When pulled on a static hydraulic test bed, an anchor labelled with “5,000 lbs.” will not fail until at least the 5,000 lb. mark is reached

• The number that has been selected by regulatory bodies to help ensure a sufficient safety margin is achieved. Remember: Stronger = Better; Higher = Better

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Anchorages

HOT TIP!

Anchorage strength is a key consideration in the overall effectiveness of your fall arrest system. Anchorage elevation is often overlooked, and of equal importance! Every effort should be made to select an anchorage that is higher than the elevation of your dorsal D-ring. Doing so will provide you with the following advantages:

• Reduced free-fall distance • Reduced pendulum effect or swing-fall • Reduced fall arrest forces • Reduced forces transmitted to the anchorage • Reduced arrest or deceleration distance • Reduced clearance requirements

Fall clearances are discussed in greater detail later on in this guide. However imagine the typical six foot worker. The height (while standing) of their dorsal D-ring is going to be about 5' above the walking- working surface. If the worker were to tie-off to an anchorage at a 5' elevation using a 6' energy- absorbing lanyard, their free-fall distance will be 6' and the typical deceleration distance is going to be 3.5'. If an anchorage were selected at an elevation of 7.5', their free-fall distance is reduced to 3.5', and their deceleration distance will be reduced by about a foot. Their overall clearance requirements would be reduced by three and a half feet!

Every measurable aspect of the fall arrest is improved by elevating the anchorage, and the risk of injury due to contact with a lower level or an object in the fall path is greatly reduced.

Anchorages: Breaking It All Down

There are two basic sets of guidance for anchorage strength: 1) The OSHA regulations stipulate that a fall arrest anchorage must support a static weight of 5,000 pounds per user attached, or 2) that a system must be designed to provide a safety factor of two. The 5,000 pound rule is pretty simple. That number was originally derived in an effort to help users visualize the strength of the anchor. If you can’t imagine a full-sized automobile suspended from the anchorage you intend to tie-off to, then you may need to rethink your anchorage. The 2:1 rule is the basis for a great deal of fall protection design logic. The objective here is to ensure that any design is developed with consideration of the anticipated loads, and that the minimum strength target was sufficient to provide a margin for error. ANSI/ASSE Z359.2 and Z359.6 are exceptional resources for fall protection planning and design, and are useful end-user references. The best practice is to involve a qualified person or professional engineer in the selection and designation of anchorages. This will ensure that the strength requirements are being met.

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Harnesses HARNESSES

Webbing Most harnesses are polyester or nylon - both synthetic materials noted for high strength and tenacity and capable of dealing with the typical rigors in most applications. Kevlar® or Nomex® may be used in situations where users are engaged in welding or may be exposed to electrical arc/flash hazards. PVC coated webbings are often used for users engaged in painting or in dirty areas. Materials Defined

Hardware Different alloys or non-conductive materials may be used in hardware components to take advantage of their properties. Stainless steel components may be utilized in highly corrosive environments, or in many cases, aluminum is utilized to reduce the overall weight of the product in an effort to make the user’s experience more comfortable.

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D-Rings Defined

Generally speaking, D-Ring presence and placement determines the suitability of the Full Body Harness for the various fall protection applications. Most manufacturers offer a broad selection of choices when it comes to harnesses; some are job-specific, while others are suited to specific environments. Regardless, D-Ring placement - and usage - is critical when attaching to your Personal Fall Arrest System.

Typical D-ring locations and their intended purposes are as follows:

Dorsal D-Ring Located on the wearer’s back, centered between the shoulder blades, this location is universally appropriate for fall arrest as well as for restraint. Hip D-Rings Located on, or directly adjacent to the wearer’s hips, this pair of D-Rings is intended to support the weight of the user while engaged in work-positioning. Sternal D-Ring Located on the wearer’s sternum, in the center of the chest, this D-Ring is intended to create an attachment point for use on ladder climbing systems or fall arrest systems wherein free-fall is limited to two feet or less. Frontal D-Ring Located at the abdomen, this D-ring is an attachment point typically used in rope access and rappelling.

Shoulder D-Rings This pair of D-Rings, typically located on top of the wearer’s shoulders are utilized in conjunction with a yoke to facility confined space entry and/or rescue so that the user’s body remains upright so as to easily pass through a vertical hatch or man-hole.

Waist/Rear D-Ring Typically located on a belt at or adjacent to the base of the wearer’s spine. This D-Ring is intended only for use in restraint applications.

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Harness Styles Defined

Full Body Harnesses are typically constructed in a few common styles in an effort to accommodate not only the D-ring configuration and functionality, but also to incorporate features that are preferred based on the needs of the end-user. Vest-Style Consist of vertical torso straps on the front of the wearer’s body, joined by a horizontal chest-strap, with a lower assembly consisting of a sub-pelvic strap and two leg straps. Donned initially in the same manner as one would don a vest – hence the name. Based on D-Ring configurations, these are generally used for Fall Arrest, Work-Positioning, Restraint, Basic Ladder Climbing, and Confined Space Entry. Generally the most common, basic style, with a wide variety of configurations available. Construction-Style Next most common type, and very similar to the Vest-Style, except that they typically incorporate a work belt with an integral waist pad to allow the wearer to also carry one or more tool bags. This assembly also commonly incorporates a pair of hip D-rings for work positioning and have the added benefit of being more supportive for those who routinely engage in work-positioning activities for prolonged periods. These harnesses may also incorporate suspension slings and other supportive features to benefit those who continuously engage in hands-free work activity at height (tower-climbers, wind- turbine technicians, & derrick workers). Cross-Over Style Similar to the Vest-Style, except that the front torso straps cross one another above the wearer’s sternum and generally support a sternal D-ring (closely resembling the construction of the back D-ring location). Intended to for use in applications where use of ladder climbing systems is common or frequent. Generally regarded as a bit old-fashioned and uncomfortable, and notoriously difficult to don and doff. However, they are absolutely the most secure and stable method for creating a climbing attachment, and are much safer for that application than either a Vest or Construction-Style harness with a sternal D-ring. Y-Style Typically used in climbing applications and for rope access work, Y-Style harnesses usually do not feature a sub-pelvic strap and are often built in a step-in configuration. These harnesses usually feature dorsal, hip, sternal and frontal D-rings for maximum versatility along with padded waist and legs for greater comfort and support while positioning or in suspension.

Harnesses: Breaking It All Down

With so many choices in terms of configuration, style and materials, it is important to carefully consider the needs of workers to ensure that their specific needs are being met. Almost without exception, each specific product is designed to address specific working conditions and application requirements, and rarely does one harness meet the needs of a large group of users. The most successful strategy is to carefully examine the needs of each working group and to ensure that the product that is selected provides them the flexibility they need to negotiate all of the hazards they are likely to encounter and to ensure that the selected product is appropriate not only for the application but for the environment in which they will be working as well.

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CONNECTING DEVICES

Connecting Devices Defined

Connecting Devices are the link that joins the full body harness to the anchorage and anchorage connector. Connecting devices can consist of Energy Absorbing Lanyards, Self Retracting Devices (SRD's), rope grabs, or retrieval systems. How the specific connection is made depends on whether the worker is equipped for personal fall arrest or work positioning. Positioning Devices A positioning lanyard is designed to be used as part of a system (with a full body harness and anchor- age). The system prevents the user from being exposed to a fall hazard by limiting range of movement towards an area where a fall might occur. Positioning systems also allow users to work hands-free. Positioning lanyards may be fixed length or adjustable, but do not constitute fall protection. As such, if the user is still subject to a potential fall (while using a rebar chain assembly for example), they must also utilize and additional fall protection element. Energy Absorbing Lanyards Also referred to as “energy absorbers” or “shock absorbers.” ANSI defines them as “a component whose primary function is to dissipate energy and limit deceleration forces which the system imposes on the body during fall arrest. Such devices may employ various principles such as deformation, friction, tear- ing of materials, or breaking of stitches to accomplish energy absorption. An energy absorber causes an increase in the deceleration distance. An energy absorber may be borne by the user (personal) or be a part of a horizontal lifeline subsystem or a vertical lifeline subsystem.” A energy absorbing lanyard is appropriate for use over a positioning lanyard if the potential for a fall exists. If the use of a positioning lanyard can prevent the user from being exposed to a fall hazard, it is more appropriate for use.

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Self Retracting Devices (SRD's)

The recently updated ANSI/ASSP Z359.14-2021 redefines Self Retracting Devices (SRD’s) as a general term used to describe three different types of devices.

Self Retracting Device Types

SRL’s - Self Retracting Lanyards An SRL is defined as, "A self-retracting device in the form of a mechanical fall arrester, featuring a locking mechanism and energy management system to arrest the fall of and limit the forces imparted on the user." These are the traditional devices that have been in use for decades and are typically installed on overhead anchorages, providing a cone of access to a walking-working surface below. SRL-R’s - Self-Retracting Lanyards with Integral Rescue Capability An SRL-R is defined as "An SRL that includes an integral means for assisted rescue via raising or lowering the rescue subject. Some SRL-R's may alternatively feature a mechanism which facilitates the controlled descent of the fallen user." SRL-P's - Self-Retracting Lanyard, Personal An SRL-P is defined as, "A self-retracting device designed such that it is compact enough and approved by the manufacturer to be worn by the user on a full body harness to be used as a fall arrest connector, or alternatively mounted to an anchorage. These devices may, in some cases, be available in a dual configuration for the purpose of 100% tie-off." SRL's and SRL-R's are not new to the ANSI standard, but the SRL-P is a new addition. Over the last 15 years, SRL-P's have evolved and have become a common alternative to the traditional energy-absorbing lanyard. The requirements established for SRL-P's in the update to Z359.14 are intended

to ensure that these devices are evaluated in a manner that examines the many factors of safety which are addressed in the Z359.13 standard for energy-absorbing lanyards, which are also important for SRL-P's as well. Self Retracting Device Classes The SRD's described above will be qualified according to two classes, which differ from those previously established in Z359.14 back in 2012 and 2014. The new classes are: Class 1: Self-Retracting Devices which shall be used only on overhead anchorages and shall be subjected to a maximum free fall of 2 feet or less, in practical application. Class 2: Self-Retracting Devices which are intended for applications wherein overhead anchorages may not be available or feasible and which may, in practical application, be subjected to a free fall of no more than 6 feet over an edge prescribed in Section 4 of the standard. This class encompasses the SRL-LE that existed under the previous standard.

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SRD Classes: Breaking It All Down

Class 1

Class 2

2 feet

6 feet

Maximum Freefall Distance

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

Overhead Anchorage

Below D-ring Anchorage

Possibility of line contact with Structural Edge

Additional Considerations

Swing Fall The ANSI/ASSE Z359.0-2012 standard says, “swing fall is a pendulum-like motion that occurs during and/or after a vertical fall. A swing fall results when an authorized person begins a fall from a position that is located horizontally away from a fixed anchorage.” Swing falls are typically associated with the use of a self-retracting lanyard, primarily because an SRL can be installed at a height greater than that of a shock absorbing lanyard. If cable is paid out of the de- vice as a result of the user moving away from the device horizontally, a fall (and the subsequent locking of the SRL) will cause the user to ‘swing’ like a pendulum back towards center.

Minimize the possibility of a swing fall by working as directly below the anchorage point as possible.

Right

Wrong!

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Calculating Free-Fall Distances: HIGHER = BETTER!!!

Use of a connecting device that is designed to arrest a fall requires that the user do some basic calcula- tions before working at height. If the clearance (free, open space) between the user and next lower level is not sufficient, it is possible that a user could still contact a lower level even if the device operates as designed. The type of connecting device used is often dependent upon the amount of clearance availa- ble - and calculations for Energy Absorbing Lanyards differ from those used for a Self-Retracting Device. Energy Absorbing Lanyards Personal fall arrest systems used with this equipment must be rigged to limit the free fall to a maximum of 6’ per ANSI Z359.1-2007. OSHA also requires free falls to be limited to 6’ or less & not to contact lower levels. Fall Clearance:

There must be sufficient clear - ance below the user to arrest a fall before the user strikes the ground or other obstruction. The clearance required is dependent on the following factors: • Elevation of anchorage • Connecting subsystem length • Deceleration distance • Free fall distance • Worker height • Movement of harness attachment element

Anchorage Connector

Free Fall - (6' Max)

Total Fall Distance (Free Fall + Deceleration)

Deceleration Distance

Walking/Working Surface

CALCULATE THE FALL CLEARANCE FOR EAL'S! 1) Determine the lanyard length: Usually 6’

2) Add the maximum shock absorber extension: Limited to 42” (3.5’) by regulations, so [6’ + 3.5’ = 9.5’] 3) Add the height of the anchorage above the user’s feet : If the anchorage is at shoulder height that is about 5’, [6’ + 3.5’ + 5’ = 14.5’] 4) Add a Safety Factor: 1.5’ - 3’ is recommended, depending on system configuration. Consult with a Competent Person to determine the appropriate factor of safety distance for your application. This brings the total clearance needed to 16.5' below the anchorage

Lower Level Obstruction

The 16.5’ figure is the total clearance distance required below the anchorage point, and the distance required below the walking/working surface is 11.5’. For anchorage points that are located below the position of the dorsal D-ring, consider the use of an adjustable-length lanyard to limit free-fall to less than 6’, then re-calculate the fall clearance to ensure that the lanyard can be used safely. The standard adjustable-length lanyard can be adjusted from a 4.3’ to a 6’ length.

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Calculating Free-Fall Distances: HIGHER = BETTER!!!

Self Retracting Devices Personal fall arrest systems used with this equipment must be rigged to limit the free fall to a maximum of 6’ per ANSI Z359.1-2007. OSHA also requires free falls to be limited to 6’ or less & not to contact lower levels. The same factors for fall clearance must be taken into consideration for Self-Retracting Devices as those for Energy Absorbing Lanyards:

Fall Clearance: There must be sufficient clearance below the user to arrest a fall before the user strikes the ground or other obstruction. The clearance required is dependent on the following factors:

• Elevation of anchorage • Connecting subsystem length • Arrest distance • Free fall distance • Worker height • Movement of harness attachment element

Arrest Distance

Safety Factor

Walking/Working Surface

CALCULATE THE MINIMUM REQUIRED FALL CLEARANCE FOR OVERHEAD SRL'S! 1) Determine the Arrest Distance (AD) for the type of device being used: Class A Device = 24" • Class B Device = 54" 2) Add the Safety Factor (SF): Class A Device = 24" • Class B Device = 24" 3) Calculate the Minimum Required Clearance (MRC) AD + SF = MRC: Class A Device = 48" (4 feet) • Class B Device = 78" (6.5 feet) AD + SF = MRC

Lower Level Obstruction

Always Remember: HIGHER = BETTER

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HORIZONTAL SYSTEMS

Horizontal Systems Defined

Horizontal systems are linear, traversable anchorage systems, allowing one or more users to remain continuously tied-off as they negotiate an adjacent hazard. The most common type is the Horizontal Lifeline. Horizontal Lifelines or HLL's, are commonly used for fall arrest and fall restraint, and are most often used in work areas that lack existing anchor points for personnel to safely tie off to. In it's simplest form, a horizontal lifeline consists of a cable attached to two or more anchor points on any elevated work area where a fall risk to personnel exists (an actual engineered system is significantly more complex in terms of componentry). They can be positioned in a variety of locations, dependent upon the environment. When used in combination with a Personal Fall Arrest System, an HLL can arrest a fall and limit the amount of force that is transferredboth to theworker and to the fall arrest system.Thissamecombination of horizontal lifeline, harness, and connecting device can also serve as a fall restraint system (using a static lanyard as opposed to an SRD), limiting the worker’s ability to move close enough to fall over an unprotected leading edge. The fall restraint and fall arrest properties of horizontal lifelines make the HLL an integral part of many fall protection systems. In any compliant fall arrest scenario, the free-fall distance must be limited to 6 feet, and the deceleration distance must not exceed 42 inches. Lifeline elongation; however, is NOT included in deceleration distance; and the total fall distance is unregulated - except that the employee cannot make contact with a lower level.

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Horizontal Systems Defined

This means that if you are working at height attached to an HLL and you fall, your fall must be completely arrested before you hit something on a lower level (this may or may not be the ground). The distance that you fall before your Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) begins to arrest your fall cannot exceed 6 feet - and the distance between activation of the PFAS and total fall arrest cannot exceed 42 inches (in most cases). This is important with regards to the DESIGN of a horizontal system, and strongly reinforces the fact that simply stringing a cable between two end points does NOT constitute a true Horizontal System . OSHA 1926.502(d)(8) states : ‘Horizontal lifelines shall be designed, installed and used, under the supervision of a qualifiedperson, aspart of acompletepersonal fall arrest system,whichmaintainsasafety factor of at least two’ .This guidance is not exactly, comprehensive, so there is quite a bit of variability in themarketplace. Types of Horizontal Lifeline Systems There are two basic types of Horizontal Lifeline Systems: Architectural and Structural . Architectural Systems are typically roof-mounted cable systems utilizing short post anchors. They are most often run down a roof ridge, or around the perimeter of a flat roof and may be used for either restraint or for fall arrest. In an effort to protect the roof structures to which they are attached, these systems typically utilize deforming anchorage posts, which absorb fall arrest energy and mini- mize the transmission of these forces to the roofing substrates.

Installations of Architectural Horizontal Lifeline Systems are almost universally permanent installations, as penetrations of the roofing surface are required. In most cases, they will have to be inspected, and potentially serviced, on an annual basis as a result of their constant exposure to the elements in all extremes of weather. For these reasons, the most effective and efficient systems are utilized for restraint, so as to reduce the opportunity for damage to be done to the building in the event of a fall. These are most effectively utilized with Vertical Lifelines and Rope Adjustors as opposed to Energy-Absorbing Lanyards or SRL’s. Well-disciplined use of VLL’s will greatly ex - tend the serviceable life of these systems. Structural Horizontal Lifeline Systems are generally utilized in construction environments or inside of fixed facili - ties. These systems can be mounted in a variety of different ways. In steel erection, they can be strung between columns, six to eight feet above the walking-working surface, in order to provide an overhead anchorage. They can also be installed on free-standing stanchions, which can allow these systems to be used when vertical structures may not exist in order to provide anchorage locations.

Structural Horizontal Lifeline Systems will rely on in-line energy absorbers to dissipate some of the

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Rigid Rail Systems

fall arrest energy. When a fall is arrested on an HLL cable, the cable will sag and the input forces are amplified to the end anchorages as a result of the lever mechanics involved when the cable begins to move in the vertical axis. In order to protect the integrity of the anchorages and the other system components, the energy absorber will deploy or elongate, dampening these forces. Elongation of the energy absorber adds additional length to the HLL line in addition to the dynamic sag, which increases the overall fall distance. As a result, clearance management is a critical factor in HLL utilization. The use of intermediate or by-pass anchorages can help to limit the overall sag distance by reducing the free-span length of the HLL cable. The shorter sub-span lengths can greatly reduce the sag dis- tance and also reduce the overall fall arrest energy being transmitted to the end anchorages making for a safer and more effective system. Structural Horizontal Lifeline Systems may be installed in a permanent fashion in areas of frequent ingress and egress where periodic on contiguous fall hazards are present. They may also be erected in temporary applications, particularly in construction, to mitigate short term fall hazards. In either case, the versatility of these systems make them a popular choice in either circumstance. There are also kits available which feature a synthetic rope lifeline to make them lightweight and easy to install. These systems do have some short-comings, however. They typically require greater clearance as the synthetic rope tends to stretch under a fall arrest load. Additionally, the rope is susceptible to very rapid degradation and requires very careful inspection. In facilities where the structure may be insufficient to bear the arresting loads characteristic of HLL systems, Rigid Rail systems are often used (see next section). These are comprised of metallic rails or tracks which will have trolleys which serve as mobile anchorage connectors, allowing the user to walk from one end of the rail to the other while constantly tied off to an overhead anchorage, usually with Self-Retracting Lanyard. Systems of this type offer several key advantages. First, due to their rigid and inflexible nature, the loads are not amplified and are distributed, more or less evenly, to the nearest adjacent anchorage loca - tions. This means that they can be installed in more insubstantial structures and facilities without the additional of additional structural steel or other modifications. Furthermore, there is no dynamic sag, so the fall arrest distances are considerably reduced, meaning that they can be used in applications where very low clearances exist. This is particularly useful in general industry applications where four- foot trigger heights are the rule of thumb. When coupled with an effective Class A Self-Retracting Lanyards, Rigid Rails systems offer excep- tionally good protection to workers where linear fall hazards exist, and because the fall arrest distanc- es are so short, self-rescue and assisted rescue are generally very easy to execute, greatly simplify- ing the overall fall protection plan. As with Horizontal Lifelines, most of these systems can accommodate multiple workers, which helps to increase their usefulness and appeal.

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Rigid Rail Systems

All Horizontal Systems are not created equally. Typically when the phrase 'Horizontal System' is used, the perception is that of a cable strung between endpoints. These ARE the most typical systems in the category, but they are not the ONLY systems that qualify as 'Horizontal Systems'. Rigid Rail Systems are just that - Horizontal Systems that are comprised of rigid rail elements as opposed to cable. These systems are permanently installed, and are typically used in areas where at- height repetitive operations are performed in the same location. Loading and unloading trucks or rail cars and aircraft maintenance or manufacturing/assembly are two common instances where rigid rail systems are commonly used.

Why choose a Rigid Rail System instead of a standard cable-based Horizontal Lifeline System? • In many cases, Horizontal Lifeline Systems may not be effective. • Horizontal Lifeline Systems often require more clearance than is available, and they always require substantial structural anchorages to support the end-loads. • A Rigid Rail System does not substantially deflect under dynamic fall arrest loading, so the required clearances are considerably reduced. • Additionally, due to the strength and rigidity of the rail segments, the dynamic loads that are transmitted to the structural anchorages are considerably less severe. • When used in conjunction with appropriate Self Retracting Lanyards, arrest distances are less than 24”.

Rigid Rail Systems are nothing new. Traditionally they been constructed of steel, and the ‘track’ which contains the traversable trolley requires a complicated truss system to support it and give it strength. Lighter, less complex, more efficient systems are now available. The Aluminum Rail Fall Arrest System by Reliance was designed specifically to simplify this solution to make it more affordable and to reduce the cost and complication involved with the installation of these types of systems. It uses extruded aluminum rail, simple slices and hangers, easy-to-use adapter brackets, and an internal trolley to make installation and use of the system easy and trouble-free.

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LEADING EDGE

Eliminating the Confusion Self-Retracting Lanyards have traditionally been used in overhead applications. In recent years, inno- vations have been made and we have seen the introduction of miniaturized devices (SRL-P’s), which are rapidly replacing Energy-Absorbing Lanyards. We have also seen the introduction of Leading Edge SRL’s (Class 2 SRL's) and even Leading Edge SRL-P’s (also Class 2)! The result is a lot of confusion, and the limitations of these products aren't always fully understood. It is important to understand that when using any self-retracting device attached to any anchorage below the level of the dorsal D-ring, great care must be taken to understand the clearance requirements as well as the risks associated with the SRL line making contact with a structural edge. While testing for Leading Edge SRL's is done in accordance with ANSI/ASSP Z359.14, simulating con - tact with a structural steel edge having a radius of .005”, this does not guarantee that these devices are impervious to all substrates. Furthermore, many of these devices require considerable clearance to safely arrest a fall. Be sure to read, understand and adhere to any instructions, markings, labels and warnings. These devices must be used with utmost care, and foot-level tie-offs should always be a last resort.

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