Detailed instructions for inspection of systems and system components to include
rejection criteria and replacement procedures.
A detailed plan and procedures for the rescue of a worker who may be involved in a
fall event.
7.2: Rescue Plan
In the event of a fall, OSHA requires that a prompt rescue be provided. In order to
facilitate a prompt and effective rescue, it is important to have a Rescue Plan as part of
your overall Fall Protection Plan.
The rescue plan should include detailed procedures for summoning a professional
rescue agency (such as the local fire department) and/or for performing self-rescue or
in-house rescue.
For detailed assistance in formulating and maintaining an effective rescue plan, see
ANSI Z359.2-2007.
7.3: Suspension Trauma
Suspension Trauma (also referred to as orthostatic intolerance) is a condition that
can arise from being suspended in a full-body harness for a prolonged period of time
while awaiting rescue after a fall. Under these circumstances, blood circulation can be
restricted allowing a large volume of blood to accumulate or pool in the veins of the
workers legs. This condition can result in a variety of symptoms, some of which include
light-headedness, loss of consciousness, difficulty concentrating and palpitations.
Following a rescue, Suspension Trauma can be so acute as to cause cardiac arrest
when the large volume of un-oxygenated blood overwhelms the heart. This severity of
this condition can be greatly reduced by using any one of a variety of devices offered to
alleviate Suspension Trauma, such as
FallTech’s ReliefPak
and by providing a prompt
rescue in the event of a fall.
For additional details on Suspension Trauma, refer to OSHA’s Safety and Health
Information Bulletin SHIB 03-24-2004 at
www.osha.gov
.
Section 8: Product Inspection
Inspection is a critical element in the employment of any fall protection equipment. In
order to protect Authorized Persons who are using this
Anchor
, it is important that the
employer establishes procedures that has layers of inspection to ensure that any
mechanical or functional deficiencies are recognized before the product is put into use.
8.1: Issuing
If the
EcoAnchor
is to be kept in a locker or tool crib between periods of use, the
person responsible should inspect the product upon issuing and receipt to ensure that it
is in proper working order. If any deficiency is noted, this should be logged on the
inspection record and the product should be removed from service and handled in
accordance with the employer’s lock-out/tag-out policy. If this
EcoAnchor
exhibits a
deficiency, it should be immediately removed from service and replaced.
8.2: Daily/Incidental Use
OSHA 1910.66 and OSHA 1926.502 (as well as ANSI Z359.1-2007 and ANSI
A10.32-2004) specifically require that the user inspect all fall protection equipment
prior to each use to ensure proper function and to ensure that the equipment is in
serviceable condition. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or death.
FallTech
requires that the following steps be taken during each inspection prior to
use of this
EcoAnchor
:
1. Check for any damage to the
EcoAnchor
. Check the bladder for tears, punctures or
evidence of abrasion. Once it has been filled, check for leaks or the presence of
water on the working surface that may be accumulating as a result of a slow or
concealed leak.
2. Inspect the anchor ring for cracks, burrs, deformation or corrosion. Check to ensure
that the ring is securely attached to the bladder and that there is no evidence of
damage or a leak on the upper bladder surface adjacent to the anchor ring.
