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External Access System
11/01/10
Appendix B
Harken External Access System (EAS)
Installation & Proof Testing Advice
INTRODUCTION:
The following is the good faith interpretation by Harken of the standards that we understand are the current
methods that will meet the many test procedures to assure a safely installed Harken EAS System. Harken is not
responsible for any future changes, alternate interpretations, or other requirements imposed by inspection
officials. Harken does not accept any responsibility for the consequences of failed installations including but not
limited to personal injuries, costs or any related damages or from failed alternative installations methods. The
installer is directed to carefully consider Section A and B of BACKGROUND.
The Harken EAS is fully tested and certified under EN795:1996 Class D as a fall arrest anchorage device. However,
we have had a number of requests to approve alternative methods of fastening to vessels due to different
construction and building techniques.
Regrettably, it is simply not possible for us to approve all these alternatives without detailed engineering, testing
and surveying of every individual case.
Therefore, the purpose of this guidance is to illustrate how alternative methods of attachment can be considered
by the installer and considered as suitable.
To be 100% explicit, this guidance is regarding the installation of the product and nothing to do with the product itself.
BACKgROUND:
We have researched the MCA documentation:
http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/workingatsea/mcga-healthandsafety/mcga-dqs-shs-
health_and_safety/mcga-coswp-2008.htm
and BS7883 2005 PPE Anchor Device Testing. From this we can draw two critical principals:
A) Any safety equipment or lifting device must have its installation inspected and surveyed as per standard
industry practice. Likewise, periodic inspection is necessary to ensure nothing has deteriorated due to age, wear or
corrosion. There are well established systems and protocols in place to ensure this is done. This is nothing special
or unique to the Harken EAS.
B) As per the MCA code of practice (Chapter 21.6.1) The Installer has the full responsibility for a proper, safe
installation that is tested to meet all relevant standards. Normally this would be verified by an independent safety
surveyor assigned to super yachts by organisations like RINA/Germanischer Lloyds/Des Norske Veritas/ABS.
REgARDINg BS7883:2005:
This Code of Practice details the maintenance and testing regime of EN795 anchor devices for fall protection. It
recommends an initial sample (3no.) proof test of 10kN (1000 kgs) for 3 minutes if the installation is into a base
material that the installer has no information on or has never installed into before. If the samples tested pass, the
rest of the anchor points shall be tested to 6kN for 15 seconds.
If the anchor device is only used for fall protection, the device should be thoroughly examined and tested annually
to 6kN for 15 seconds. If the device is used for suspending personnel or rope access the device should be
thoroughly examined and tested every 6 months as a minimum.
CONCLUSION:
BS7883:2005 standard gives a good reference point to offer guidance on testing of any track installation, new or
retro-fit. Our interpretation in practical application is:
Appendix B
