2.9 MAKING
CONNECTIONS:
Use only self-locking snap hooks and carabiners with this equipment. Only use
connectors that are suitable to each application. 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.
DBI-SALA connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be used only as speci
fi
ed in each
product’s user’s instructions. See Figure 7 for illustration of the inappropriate connections stated below. 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.
C. In a false engagement, where features that protrude from the snap hook or carabiner catch on the
anchor and without visual con
fi
rmation 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 speci
fi
cally allow 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 with the fall arrest device (i.e., lanyard) while
under load.
NOTE:
Other than 3,600 lb. (16 kN) gated hooks, 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
fi
xed structural elements such as
rebar or cross members that are not shaped in a way that can capture the gate of the hook.
Other Restrictions:
•
Do not make connections where the hook locking mechanism can come into contact with a structural
member or other equipment and potentially release the hook.
•
Do not connect a snap hook into a loop or thimble of a wire rope or attach in any way to a slack wire
rope.
•
The snap hook must be free to align with the applied load as intended (regardless of the size or shape of
the mating connector).
•
A carabiner may be used to connect to a single or pair of soft loops on a body support such as a body
belt or full body harness, provided the carabiner can fully close and lock. This type of connection is not
allowed for snap hooks.
•
A carabiner may be connected to a loop or ring connector that is already occupied by a choker style
connector. This type of connection is not allowed for snap hooks.
Figure 6 - Unintentional Disengagement (Rollout)
If the connecting element to which a snap hook (shown) 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. 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.
Small ring or other
non-compatibly
shaped element
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.
Figure 7 - Inappropriate Connections
