MFRD01 Rev A
113022
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4.5
Total Fall Distance:
Total fall distance is the expected distance that the WPFRD will travel down the pole in the event of a fall. Total fall
distance is the sum of two values: freefall distance and the deceleration or slippage distance. The data contained in Table 1 below
is based on ASTM and CSA qualification testing in accordance with ASTM F887 and CSA Z259.14. Performance may vary with
climbing conditions.
4.5.1
Freefall Distance:
The freefall distance is approximately the distance between the user and the pole under normal climbing conditions,
which is the distance that the user may fall before the device engages with the pole. For ASTM and CSA compliance testing, this distance
is 12 in (30.5 cm).
4.5.2
Deceleration or Slippage Distance:
This is the distance that the WPFRD takes to fully restrict a fall after the freefall has occurred. In many
cases, this distance is zero. Climbing conditions may affect performance. The values listed in Table 1 below are worst case values as
tested to ASTM and CSA.
Table 1: FallTech WPFRD Expected
Performance Attributes Under Normal Climbing Conditions
Typical FallTech Performance
CSA Performance Requirements
Pole Condition
Freefall
Distance
Deceleration/
Slippage
Distance
Total Fall
Distance
Freefall
Distance
Deceleration/
Slippage
Total Fall
Distance
Dry Pole
12”
(30.5 cm)
4.3”
(10.9 cm)
16.3”
(41.4 cm)
12”
(30.5 cm)
N/A
39”
(100 cm)
Wet Pole
12”
(30.5 cm)
3.5”
(8.9 cm)
15.5”
(39.4 cm)
12”
(30.5 cm)
N/A
49”
(125 cm)
Icy Pole
12”
(30.5 cm)
14.5”
(36.8 cm)
26.5”
(67.3 cm)
12”
(30.5 cm)
N/A
59”
(150 cm)
5.0 Installation and Use
WARNING
Do not alter or intentionally misuse this equipment. Consult FallTech when using this equipment in combination with components or
subsystems other than those described in this manual. All components or subsystems used with the WPFRD discussed in this manual must be in
compliance with ANSI Z359, CSA Z259, ASTM F887, and/or OSHA.
Use caution. Take action to avoid sharp and/or abrasive surfaces and edges when possible.
5.1
Pre-Use Inspection:
Before each use, inspect all components of the WPFRD according to Section 7 of this user instruction manual. Inspect
all other equipment per the manufacturer’s instructions. Remove from service any component that fails inspection.
5.2 Planning:
Examine work site for hazards. Inspect pole for integrity, sharp edges, and identify the best climbing path. If sharp edges exist
that are unavoidable, use proper edge protection before climbing or before climbing past the hazard. Ensure a proper rescue plan is in
place before climbing.
5.3
Installation:
5.3.1
Connecting the Device to the Body Belt:
Connect the two Body Belt Carabiners to the primary positioning D-rings of the body belt as
show in Figure 4 below. Ensure that the Body Belt Carabiner on the Rope Adjuster side is oriented such that the Rope Adjuster lies
horizontally with the indicator arrow facing towards the pole. Note: The triple locking oval Body Belt Carabiners can be connected with
the gate openings facing inward or outward. Inward facing gates as shown in Figure 4 makes connecting and disconnecting easier and
prevents materials/equipment from interfering with the gates.
