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1.0 APPLICATION
1.1 PURPOSE:
DBI-SALA Lineman’s Belts are intended to be used as part of a work positioning
system. Application: electrical/telephone pole ascending and descending.
See Figure 2.
WORK POSITIONING:
The structure to which the work positioning system
is attached must sustain static loads applied in the directions permitted by the
work positioning system of at least 3,000 lbs., or twice the potential impact load,
whichever is greater. See OSHA 1926.502. When more than one work positioning
system is attached to an anchorage, the strengths stated above must be multiplied
by the number of work positioning systems attached to the anchorage.
1.2 LIMITATIONS:
Consider the following application limitations before using this
equipment:
A. FREE FALL:
Lineman’s Belts must not be used in situations where a free fall
could occur. Use a full body harness in free fall situations.
B. ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS:
Use of this equipment in areas where
environmental hazards exist may require additional precautions be taken to
reduce the possibility of injury to the user or damage to the equipment. Hazards
may include, but are not limited to: high heat, caustic chemicals, corrosive
environments, high voltage power lines, explosive or toxic gases, moving
machinery, or sharp edges.
C. TRAINING:
This equipment is intended to be used by persons trained in its
correct application and use.
D.
CAPACITY:
The DBI-SALA Lineman’s Belts are designed for use by persons
with a combined weight (clothing, tools, etc.) of no more than 310 lbs
(141 kg). Make sure all of the components in your system are rated to a
capacity appropriate to your application.
Figure 2 - Work Positioning
1.3 STANDARDS:
Refer to the following standard on fall protection:
OSHA
1910.268 Telecommunications.
Body Belt
OSHA
1926.502 Fall protection systems criteria and practices.
Body Belt
OSHA
1926.954 Personal protective equipment.
Body Belt
ASTM
F887
Standard specifications for personal climbing equipment.
Body Belt: Type B
2.0 SYSTEM LIMITATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Consider the following limitations/requirements prior to installing or using this equipment:
2.1
COMPATIBILITY OF COMPONENTS:
Unless otherwise noted, 3M equipment is designed for use with 3M 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.
2.2
COMPATIBILITY OF CONNECTORS:
Connectors are considered to be 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 kN). Connectors must be compatible with the anchorage or other system
components. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Non-compatible connectors may unintentionally disengage
(see Figure 3). Connectors must be compatible in size, shape, and strength.
2.3
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.
3M connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be used only as specified in each product’s user’s instructions.
See Figure 4 for illustration of the inappropriate connections stated below. 3M 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 confirmation 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 specifically 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.