- A – anchorage/anchorage connector
- B – body support
- C – connecting device
Anchorage Strength
There are several factors that affect the minimum strength that a fall protection anchor structure can withstand, these are:
- The type of system used
- The selection of the anchor structure
- The number of worker that is connected to the structure
Typical work areas have anchorage points only at foot level and, usually, none suitable to use for an overhead anchorage system. This may exposed all the workers to a fall of greater than 6 feet and should be discussed directly with the employer.
Horizontal Lifeline Systems
Horizontal lifeline systems can either be pre-engineered and ready to install or engineered specifically for a certain work area. Either way, the horizontal lifeline systems must only be installed by a qualified individual. The manufacturers of pre-engineered horizontal lifelines are liable to the performance and strength of the systems. These ready to install kits come with an in-line energy absorber which will limit the transmitted load to the system in case of a fall. It is important that the fall protection straps attached to the lifeline is durable enough to sustain the worker’s weight. Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer in order for the pre-engineered horizontal lifeline to work properly. It must always be handled and used under the supervision of a certified individual.
How to put on the harness
How the harness will be used will determine the harness’ attachment points. Some harness designs allows metallic rings to be substituted with fiber loops.
- Fall Arrest. One of the most important elements in fall arrest attachment is the D-ring at the back. After the user has properly adjusted the harness, it should be located at the middle of the back – between the shoulder blades.
- Work Positioning. If the worker is going to use the harness for work positioning then a D-ring at each side of the hip should be used. The D-rings work as a pair, never use one only. When properly adjusted, the D-rings should be positioned lower on the hips.
- Travel Restraint. When used as a travel restraint, the most common position of the D-ring is the middle of the back. Some designs vary and may include a body belt where in the user can attach the travel restraint at the waist level and the middle of the back.
- Descent. For evacuation purposes, the attachment should be located in the front – between the waist and the chest. It could be a single chest ring or D-ring at the waist. It could also be a pair of D-rings at the waist. This type of attachment is used when lowering or raising a worker.
- Evacuation. When used in evacuation, the pair of D-rings should be located at the shoulder of the fall protection straps. Attachments may also be located in front at chest level.