Rev C
061319
MSRD08
In addition, Table 1B: Typical FallTech Performance and ANSI Performance Attributes provides two lists of test performance attributes, listed by
worst case values, and by maximum values of testing, using a 310 lb. weight in both an overhead anchorage condition, and in a non-overhead
anchorage conditions.
The competent person may find this data useful with planning anchorage location and calculating fall arrest loads and distances from the
walking/working level to the nearest obstruction or lower level. See Section 4.
NOTE:
Arrest distance is one part of the Minimum Required Fall Clearance (MRFC). The MRFC is determined by consideration of multiple factors in
fall protection. Attachment below the level of the FBH D-ring will require additional fall clearance. MRFC is discussed in detail in Section 4.
3.6 PFAS Anchorage Strength:
An anchorage selected for PFAS must have a strength able to sustain a static load applied in the direction permitted
by the PFAS of at least:
a)
Two times the maximum arrest force permitted when certification exists, or
b)
5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN) in the absence of certification.
Select an anchorage location carefully. Consider structural strength, obstructions in the fall path, and swing fall hazards.
Table 1B provides dynamic performance test data of the three principal parameters (see paragraph 1.1) for FallTech self-retracting devices, listed
by model number and class. In certain situations, the qualified person can determine that a given structure is
able to withstand the applied MAF of the PFAS with a safety factor of at least two.
3.7 Definitions:
The following are definitions of terms.
Authorized Person:
A person assigned by the employer to perform duties at a location where the person will be exposed to a fall hazard
(otherwise referred to as “user” for the purpose of these instructions).
Certified Anchorage:
An anchorage for fall arrest, positioning, restraint, or rescue systems that a qualified person certifies to be capable of supporting the
potential fall forces that could be encountered during a fall or that meet the criteria for a certified anchorage prescribed in this standard.
Competent Person:
One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are
unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Harness Stretch:
Amount of vertical travel of the Full Body Harness D-ring during a fall arrest.
Qualified Person:
A person with a recognized degree or professional certificate and with extensive knowledge, training, and experience in the fall
protection and rescue field who is capable of designing, analyzing, evaluating and specifying fall protection and rescue systems to the extent
required by this standard.
Rescuer:
Person or persons other than the rescue subject acting to perform an assisted rescue by operation of a rescue system
4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
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 SRD discussed in this manual must be in
compliance with ANSI Z359 and OSHA 1926.
Do not use rebar hooks, large carabiners or large snap hooks to connect to the FBH dorsal D-rings or to any small diameter non-compatible
anchor point as this may cause a roll-out condition and/or unintentional disengagement.
Do not insert extra connectors between the SRD lifeline connector and the FBH dorsal D-ring, except an approved D-ring extender.
Use caution. Take action to avoid sharp and/or abrasive surfaces and edges.
4.1. Install the SRD:
Examine the work area for possible hazards. Take caution to avoid overhead hazards such as cranes, poles, overhead power
cables, and walking/working surface hazards such as power cables, welding leads, air and fluid hoses, including obstruction hazards such as vertical
columns and stacks of materials on the lower level. Eliminate hazards where possible.
A selected anchorage must be capable of supporting required loads detailed in Section 3. Ensure the anchorage provides the Minimum Required Fall
Clearance (MRFC) in the fall path below the walking/working surface to prevent striking the lower level or an obstruction during a fall event. Take action to
avoid swing falls, which occur when the anchorage is not directly above the point where the fall occurs. Fall clearance and swing falls are subject to variable
conditions. Anchor height, lateral movement, and setback distance all affect anchor location with regard to fall clearance and swing fall.
Leading Edge applications have specific hazards. Refer back to paragraph 2.4.
The SRD may be attached to an overhead anchor, i.e. above the user's FBH dorsal D-ring, or a non-overhead anchor, i.e., below the user's FBH
dorsal D-ring. A non-overhead anchor may be as low as foot level, but no more than a maximum of 5' below the user's FBH dorsal D-ring. Non-
overhead anchor locations result in greater contact between the lifeline and the edge and present greater abrasion risk hazards. Use of a foot-level
anchorage should be as a last resort, when no other anchor option exists.
Performance testing has shown that a fall event over a leading edge will alter SRD performance characteristics and fall clearance requirements.
When anchored below the FBH back D-ring fall events will result in greater fall clearances. Reduced setback distances will also increase clearance
requirements. Non-overhead anchorage when the SRD is set back less than 5’ will result in the greatest MRFC and the least amount of worker
mobility due to swing fall. Greater set back distances of 5’ or more will reduce the overall MRFC and allow for more lateral movement of the
worker when attached to a non-overhead anchorage.
If job site geometry allows it, a setback distance of 5' is recommended to take full advantage of the SRD performance. In addition, the Angle of
Redirection of the lifeline, i.e., the angle of the lifeline as it passes over the edge, must be at 90 degrees or more, never less. Do not attach the SRD
in a manner that places the edge higher than the SRD.
DO NOT
use the SRD carrying handle for fall protection installation.
NOTE:
Falls over a leading edge, especially swing falls, may produce unforeseen forces. Proper use of the provided personal safety equipment can
mitigate such forces.
4.1.1 Calculate SRL-LE MRFC Anchorage: 5' Setback From Leading Edge and 5' Below the Dorsal D-ring.
With the anchor set back and below the
D-ring, as shown in Figure 3A, there are seven variables to consider when calculating the MRFC. These seven are labeled A, B, C, D, E, F, and G. H is
the MRFC. These variables are;
A = Free Fall Distance due to Below D-ring Anchorage
B = SRD deceleration distance
C = Additional Deceleration Distance