V1.0 2022 Copyright Safewaze
Unless otherwise noted, Safewaze equipment is designed for use with Safewaze approved components and subsystems only.
Substitutions or replacements made with non approved components or subsystems may jeopardize compatibility of equipment
and may affect safety and reliability of the complete system.
Read and follow manufacturer’s instructions for associated components and subsystems in your
personal fall arrest system.
Connectors are compatible with connecting elements when they have been designed to work together in such a way that their
sizes and shapes do not cause their gate mechanisms to inadvertently open regardless of how they become oriented. Connectors
(hooks, carabiners, and D-rings) must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN). Do not use equipment that is not
compatible. Non-compatible connectors may unintentionally disengage (See Figure 4). Connectors must be compatible with the
anchorage or other system components (See Figure 5). Connectors must be compatible in size, shape, and strength. Self-locking
snap hooks and carabiners are required by ANSI Z359 and OSHA guidelines. Contact Safewaze if you have any questions about
compatibility.
NOTE:
SOME SPECIALTY CONNECTORS HAVE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS. CONTACT
SAFEWAZE WITH QUESTIONS.
FIGURE 4 - UNINTENTIONAL DISENGAGEMENT
3 - gate opens
2 - gate presses
against
non-complaint part
4 - parts disengage
1 -
Non-compliant part
Using a connector that is undersized or irregular in shape (1) to connect a snap hook or carabiner could allow the connector to
force open the gate of the snap hook or carabiner. When force is applied, the gate of the hook or carabiner presses against the
non-compliant part (2) and forces open the gate (3). This allows the snap hook or carabiner to disengage (4) from the connection
point.
7.0 COMPATIBILITY OF COMPONENTS
8.0 COMPATIBILITY OF CONNECTORS
Snap hooks and carabiners used with this equipment must be double locking and/or twist lock. 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.
Safewaze connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be used only as specified in each product’s user instructions.
See Figure 5 for examples of inappropriate connections. Do not connect snap hooks and carabiners:
• To a D-ring to which another connector is attached.
•
In a manner that would result in a load on the gate (with the exception of tie-back hooks). NOTE: Large snap hooks must not
be connected to objects which will result in a load on the gate if the hook twists or rotates, unless the snap hook complies with
ANSI Z359.12 and is equipped with a 3,600 lb (16 kN) gate. Check the marking on your snap hook to verify its compatibility.
9.0 MAKING CONNECTIONS
FIGURE 5 - INAPPROPRIATE CONNECTIONS
8
IMPORTANT:
