3M PROTECTA COBRA AC202/01, User Instruction Manual

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2.7 COMPONENT COMPATIBILITY: 3M equipment is designed for use with 3M-approved components and subsystems
only. Substitutions or replacements made with non-approved components or subsystems may jeopardize compatibility
of equipment and may affect the safety and reliability of the complete system.
2.8 CONNECTOR COMPATIBILITY: Connectors are considered to be compatible with connecting elements when they
have been designed to work together in such a way that their sizes and shapes do not cause their gate mechanisms
to inadvertently open regardless of how they become oriented. Contact 3M if you have any questions about
compatibility.
Connectors (hooks, carabiners, and D-rings) must be capable of supporting at least 20 kN (4,500 lbf). Connectors
must be compatible with the anchorage or other system components. Do not use equipment that is not compatible.
Non-compatible connectors may unintentionally disengage (see Figure 7). Connectors must be compatible in size,
shape, and strength. If the connecting element to which a snap hook or carabiner attaches is undersized or irregular in
shape, a situation could occur where the connecting element applies a force to the gate of the snap hook or carabiner
(A). This force may cause the gate to open (B), allowing the snap hook or carabiner to disengage from the connecting
point (C).
2.9 MAKING CONNECTIONS: Snap hooks and carabiners used with this equipment must be self-locking. Ensure all
connections are compatible in size, shape and strength. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Ensure all
connectors are fully closed and locked.
3M connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be used only as specified in each product’s user’s
instructions. See Figure 8 for examples of inappropriate connections. Do not connect snap hooks and carabiners:
A. To a D-ring to which another connector is attached.
B. In a manner that would result in a load on the gate.
C. In a false engagement, where features that protrude from the snap hook or carabiner catch on the anchor, and
without visual confirmation seems to be fully engaged to the anchor point.
D. To each other.
E. Directly to webbing or rope lanyard or tie-back (unless the manufacturer’s instructions for both the lanyard and
connector specifically allows such a connection).
F. To any object which is shaped or dimensioned such that the snap hook or carabiner will not close and lock, or
that roll-out could occur.
G. In a manner that does not allow the connector to align properly while under load.