Archives: FAQs

Archives: FAQs

Since 2012, it has been a requirement of the ANSI/ASSE Z359.14 standard that all self-retracting devices must include a visual indicator that the device has been subjected to a fall. In many cases, this is a simple roll-pin or shear-pin that is part of the snap hook assembly. In the event of a fall, the pin shears off, revealing an identifying collar or mark. 

For devices featuring a webbing constituent line, the visual indicator may be a simple warning label or flag. It is stitched to the webbing near the nozzle hook at the bottom of the housing and concealed in a section that has been folded and stitched down. The force of the arrest breaks the stitch and reveals the concealed warning label. 

Check manufacturer instructions for your preferred device for details on the visual indicator and how to determine the go/no-go criteria for your device. Any device that has been involved in a fall cannot be reused. 

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Personal SRL devices most often incorporate a separate or external tear-tape energy absorber instead of an internal rotary brake because they are smaller and have restrictions on size and weight. Internal rotary brakes are heavy and complicate the use of personal SRL devices, especially when considering the need for a reserve line. 

Safewaze external energy absorbers allow for easy use of personal SRL devices while maintaining high-capacity energy absorption.

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The most noticeable difference is size or the working length. Most personal SRLs are offered in lengths of 6-12 feet. Anything longer can become difficult to manage. Since these devices are generally used interchangeably with energy absorbing lanyards, there is an expectation that they be small and reasonably lightweight. 

Another difference is material. The constituent line in a personal SRL is typically webbing to lower the size and weight. Larger, full-size SRLs more frequently use wire rope. Wire rope is heavier and requires a wider drum diameter to be effectively wound. 

Finally, most full size SRLs utilize an internal rotary brake to manage energy absorption. With size and weight constraints for personal devices, this is considered impractical. External tear-tape energy absorbers are generally used on smaller devices.

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This depends on the application. While it is rare to see personal SRLs mounted to any overhead anchorages of a larger traditional unit, a common exception is when these devices are mounted to order-picking lift trucks. Since the walking-working surface is so small and there is an integrated anchorage overhead, this is a practical solution in that situation. 

Either way, always be sure to mount and/or wear these devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer and any qualified persons at the worksite will always be the best resource for guidance on what is appropriate for your equipment.

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These two terms are interchangeable and both are acceptable. Self-retracting lanyard is the common term based on the types and classes of self-retracting devices that were further defined in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.14 standard in 2014.

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Yes. There is nothing to prohibit usage in instances where multiple wraps of the cable choker would need to be made around a structure prior to pass-through of the O-rings and attachment. There are varying sizes of structures in the field that may require more than one wrap of the cable and the FS830 series cable chokers are designed to allow for such attachment.

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Yes, the wear sleeve should extend beyond the edge to protect the anchor strap. Incorrect installation can allow the webbing to come into direct contact with rough edges of the cured concrete. When the strap is used incorrectly, the webbing is much more prone to damage and degradation. Therefore, straps that do not have the wear sleeve protruding beyond the edge of the pour should be removed. 

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Every worksite is different and contains its own unique challenges and fall hazards. While most fall protection equipment today is manufactured to be versatile, that does not guarantee that the devices used on the last job are the best solution for a new job. Some applications require job-specific equipment to ensure the safety of workers. 

For example, those working in fields that do welding or electrical maintenance require a harness made with special materials that offer fire resistance and arc flash protection. The type of lanyard or self-retracting lifeline needed may also change depending on variables such as anchorage locations, fall clearance and the set-up of the worksite. 

Fall protection equipment will not keep workers safe unless it is the right equipment for the job and used properly. Do not skip the research needed for a new worksite and the auditing of safety equipment to save time or money. Work with a qualified distributor or equipment manufacturer such as Safewaze to determine exactly what is needed. If you do not have the right equipment for the job, workers are not fully protected. Not only can shortcuts create unsafe work conditions and endanger workers, it can multiply the cost in time or money when a citation or accident occurs.

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Whereas OSHA and ANSI do not state a mandatory life for any products, Safewaze instructions state that a competent person other than the user should perform an in-depth inspection of products at least annually. Additionally, the user should inspect equipment before each use in accordance with OSHA and ANSI guidelines as stated:   

  • ANSI Z359 fall protection code directs a competent person other than the user inspect products at least once a year. 
  • ANSI A10.32-2004 states that a competent person should inspect products every six months. This is also mandated by ANSI A10.14-1991. 
  • ANSI Z359.14-2014 states that SRLs shall be inspected by the authorized person or rescuer before each use. Additionally, inspections shall be conducted by a competent person other than the user.  
  • OSHA 1910.66 and 1926.502 state that all defective components be removed from service. There is not, however, a guideline for formal inspection periods. There is a requirement for there to be an inspection before each use.

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Safewaze recommends inspection before each use and at least one time annually by a competent person other than the user. If the fall protection product passes inspection, it is safe to use. If a product has experienced a fall, it must be taken out of service for repair or replacement. Full body harnesses and energy absorbing lanyards exposed to a fall arrest need to be immediately removed from service and replaced. [Note: In 2012, ANSI/ASSE A10.32 was removed, so fall protection products do not normally incorporate a mandatory expiration date.]

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