8
DBI/SALA connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be
used only as specified in each product’s user’s instructions. See Figure
4 for inappropriate connections. DBI/SALA snap hooks and carabiners
should not be connected:
A. To a D-ring to which another connector is attached.
B. In a manner that would result in a load on the gate.
NOTE: Large throat opening snap hooks should not be connected to
standard size D-rings or similar objects which will result in a load on the gate
if the hook or D-ring twists or rotates. Large throat snap hooks are designed
for use on fixed structural elements such as rebar or cross members that are
not shaped in a way that can capture the gate of the hook.
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).
Figure 3 - Unintentional Disengagement (Roll-out)
If the connecting element that a snap hook (shown) or carabiner attaches to 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. This force may
cause the gate (of either a self-locking or a non-locking snap hook) to open,
allowing the snap hook or carabiner to disengage from the connecting point.
1. Force is applied to
the snap hook.
2. The gate presses against
the connecting ring.
3. The gate opens
allowing the snap
hook to slip off.
Small ring or other
non-compatibly
shaped element
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