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Advisory #2: Proper product selection
Product selection is an important element of fall protection. Fall Arrest products are
like any other tools that you may use in the course of your work – there is a proper tool for
every application. You may find that while this product is suitable for some applications, it
may not be suitable for others. Please be sure to pay close attention to sections 2, 3, and
4, for greater detail on this point.
Advisory #3: Connector Compatibility
Making compatible connections may mean the difference between life and death.
Connectors (snap hooks, rebar hooks and carabiners), must be of the locking type and
require two distinct actions to open the gate. Your connectors must be sized and shaped
so that the rings or structural members to which they are attached will not pose a risk of
forcing the gate open, and must fully captivate the connector so that it cannot become
disengaged, slide or shift during use or in the event of a fall.
Certain connections are forbidden and should never be attempted with this product or
any other unless there is a specific allowance in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Forbidden connections include, but are not limited to:
Two or more connectors to one d-ring are a forbidden connection.
A connection that rests on or loads the gate is a forbidden connection.
A connection that does not allow the gate to close and lock is a forbidden
connection.
Two or more connectors attached to one another are a forbidden connection.
Connecting directly to webbing, rope, cable (wire rope) is a forbidden connection.
Connecting directly to a horizontal lifeline is a forbidden connection.
Connecting to any ring or structure that does not fully captivate and completely
restrict the movement your connector is a forbidden connection.
Section 2: ABCD’s
Every Personal Fall Arrest System consists of four basic elements – Anchorage, Body-wear,
Connectors/Connecting Devices and Deceleration Devices. Each of these four elements is
discussed in greater detail below. If, after reading though this section, you do not fully
understand these items and how they work together to form a compatible fall arrest system,
please be sure to have this explained to you by a Competent Person.
It is absolutely critical that you be familiar with the proper wear and/or use of each component
of your Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). Failure to read, understand and adhere to
instructional materials and warnings provided with each of these components could lead to a
catastrophic failure of your PFAS, resulting in serious injury or death.
2.1: Anchorage
The selection of an anchor point and anchorage connector is critical to the successful function
of any Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). OSHA 1926.502 (d) (15) states that:
“Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment shall be independent of any
anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and capable of supporting at least 5,000
pounds (22.2 kN) per employee attached, or shall be designed, installed, and used as follows: as
part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor of at least two; and
under the supervision of a qualified person.”
