6
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.
