FallTech 83663 User Manual [en, es]

Instruction Manual

D-Ring Extenders

Warning!

THE USER OF THIS EQUIPMENT, AND THE USER’S EMPLOYER MUST READ AND COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS. FURTHERMORE, THE USER AND THE USER’S EMPOLYER MUST READ AND COMPLY WITH ALL INSTRUCTIONS, LABELS WARNINGS AND MARKINGS INCLUDED WITH EACH COMPONENT OF THE FALL ARREST SYSTEM OF WHICH THIS PRODUCT IS A PART. FAILURE TO UNDERSTAND AND COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

IF THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE UNCLEAR TO YOU, PLEASE CONSULT A COMPETENT PERSON. SHOULD THESE INSTRUCTIONS BECOME LOST OR DAMAGED, OR SHOULD ANY LABELS, INSTRUCTIONS OR MARKINGS BECOME ILLEGIBLE, PLEASE CONTACT FALLTECH FOR REPLACEMENTS. SHOULD YOU NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE WITH UNDERSTANDING THE PROPER EMPLOYMENT OF THIS PRODUCT, P LEASE CONTACT FALLTECH FOR ASSISTANCE:

Alexander Andrew, Inc. (dba FallTech)

1306 South Alameda Street

Compton, CA 90221, USA

1-800-719-4619 1-323-752-0066

www.falltech.com

Section 1: Warnings and Advisories Section 2: Fall Protection Basics – ABCD’s

2.1: Anchorage

2.2: Body wear

2.3: Connectors/Connecting devices

2.4: Deceleration devices

2.5: Fall Arrest

2.6: Fall Restraint

2.7: Work Positioning

2.8: Free-fall

2.9: Clear-fall

2.10: Swing-fall

Section 3: Use and Limitations

3.1: General Guidelines

3.2: Approved applications

3.3: Restricted Applications

3.4: Installation and Use – Full Body Harness

3.5: Installation and Use – Anchorage Connector Extension

3.6: Installation and Use – Anchorage Connector Section 4: Product Selection Section 5: Anchorage Considerations Section 6: Employer and User Training

6.1: Special notes for the employer

6.2: User training Section 7: Fall Protection Plan

7.1: The fall protection plan

7.2: Suspension trauma

7.3: Rescue plan Section 8: Product Inspection

8.1: Issuing

8.2: Daily/Incidental use

8.3: Mandatory semi-annual inspection Section 9: Maintenance and Storage Section 10: Specifications

10.1: Mandatory disclosures

10.2: Performance specifications

10.3: Labels and markings

10.4: Standards and references

Table of Contents

Product Listing

This instruction manual pertains to the use and operation of the products listed below. Should you have any questions about the product that you have purchased, please contact FallTech for additional details.

D-Ring Extenders:

Model # Description Model # Description

7202 14” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 8202 14” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 7366 18” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 8366 18” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 736616 16” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 836616 16” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 736624 24” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 836624 24” D-Ring Extender (Hook + D-ring) 7366TD 16” Twin D-Ring Extender (Hook + 2 D-rings) 8366TD 16” Twin D-Ring Extender (Hook + 2 D-rings) 7366L 18” D-Ring Extender (Loop + D-ring) 8366L 18” D-Ring Extender (Loop + D-ring) 73662D 14” D-Ring Extender (Hook +2 D-rings) 83662D 14” D-Ring Extender (Hook +2 D-rings) 73663 18” D-ring Extender (Rebar hook + D-ring) 83663 18” D-ring Extender (Rebar hook + D-ring)

Section 1: Warnings and Advisories

This product is to be used as a part of a personal fall arrest system, and should be used only with compatible components. Please see Advisory #3 in this section for further details. Failure to use compatible components can result in a failure of the system to perform as intended, which may result in serious injury or death.

Throughout the OSHA regulations for safety and health, there are references to Competent Persons and Qualified Persons. ANSI Z359.0-2007 goes on to further define the roles and qualifications of these individuals; as well as Authorized Persons, and their importance in the workplace. These terms are also used in these instructions. Below is a brief description of the part these individuals play in the employment of fall protection equipment:

Authorized Person - a person who is exposed to fall hazards during the course of their work. This individual requires formal training in the use of personal fall protection equipment and systems. The term Authorized Person may be used interchangeably with User and End-User.

Competent Person – a trained and experienced person who is designated to supervise, implement and monitor an employer’s managed fall protection program. This individual is capable of identifying and addressing fall hazards and is authorized to make decisions and take corrective action in the workplace.

Qualified Person – a person possessing a degree or professional certificate and having extensive training, knowledge and experience with fall protection and who is capable of designing and specifying fall protection equipment and systems to address fall hazards.

Please read these instructions and be sure that you understand them prior to utilizing this equipment. Also be sure to read the instructions included with other components which are being utilized in your Personal Fall Arrest System (Harnesses, connectors, anchorage connectors, etc.). Failure to understand and comply with manufacturer’s instructions may result in serious injury or death. IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND ANY PART OF THESE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE HAVE THEM EXPLAINED TO YOU BY A COMPETENT PERSON.

This product is to be used as part of a complete fall arrest system in accordance with industry-recognized best-practices and your employer’s fall protection plan, as required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Be aware of your employer’s fall protection plan and rescue plan. Be aware of the specific fall hazards on your jobsite and work deliberately to avoid these hazards in the course of your work. Also be aware of hazards and obstructions in your fall path, and work with your employer to eliminate these hazards where possible. Failure to be aware of and to address these hazards may result in serious injury or death.

Do’s and Don’ts

 Do use this device only with compatible components of a comprehensive fall arrest

system.

 Do use this device only in a system which limits free fall distance to 6 ft or less.  Do use extreme caution when rigging this device.  Do rig this device to avoid the hazards of “swing fall” (see Section 2.9)  Do use this device only when your clearance distance is a minimum of 2 ft AFTER you

have calculated the total fall distance (see section 2.10 for details on clear fall distances).

 Do make compatible connections (see Advisory #3 at the end of this Section).  Do call FallTech if the device is damaged, does not pass inspecti on (see Section 8), or

has arrested a fall.

 Don’t use this component to hoist materials or equipment.  Don’t use this device if it exhibits signs of corrosion or damage from exposure to

chemicals, excessive heat, flames and electrical charge or shows signs of any physical damage or deformation.

 Don’t use this equipment if there are signs of excessive wear, deterioration, deformation

of corrosion.

 Don’t use this equipment if you are working near high voltage po wer lines or other

energized electrical equipment.

 Don’t use near moving machinery which may entangle any comp onent of the system.  Don’t use oil to lubricate moving parts. If lubrication is needed, first be sure to clean all

moving parts thoroughly; then use only 100% silicone lubricant.

 Don’t use this device if it will expose some element of your Personal Fall Arrest system

(PFAS) to sharp or jagged edges.

 Don’t use this device if you are pregnant, a minor, or have a reduced tolerance to fall

forces by reason of age, physical medical condition, or other pre-existing disorders.

 Don’t use this device if you weigh less than 75 lbs.  Don’t use this device if your total combined weight (body, clothes, tools, etc) exceeds

425 lbs.

 Don’t attempt to modify, repair or alter this device in any way.  Don’t use this equipment if it has been used to arrest a fall. If it has been used to

arrest a fall, this device must immediately be removed from service and replaced.

Advisory #1: Further Reading

If you have access to the internet, please go to www.osha.gov. This website is an exceptional resource, and has a great deal of information which is easy to access. Use the search field to find information on fall arrest, including standards, news, interpretations and other valuable tools. The more you know about how this product works and how it is supposed to be used, the safer you will be during the course of your work.

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 bec ome 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 forbidd en 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 succe ssful 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.”

Ensure that the structure to which you are attaching your anchorage connector is capable of meeting the above requirements and that your anchorage connector is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Also be sure to check that the anchorage connector is compatible with your connecting device (lanyard, SRL, vertical lifeline)and that it securely retains the connecting device without inhibiting its function. If you are unable to determine whether your connecting device and your anchorage are compatible, please immediately consult with a competent person or your immediate supervisor. For more details on anchorages, please see section 5 of this instruction manual.

2.2: Body-wear

Body wear for any application where this Beam Anchor is to be used will be defined as a full body harness specifically manufactured for fall arrest. If being used for restraint applications where the user is restricted from reaching a fall hazard, a body belt may be used as an alternative. Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions included with your full body harness or restraint belt at the time of purchase.

2.3: Connectors/Connecting Devices

Connectors and Connecting Devices are terms that are sometimes used interchangea bly. It is important to note the differences between these two terms in order to help distinguish the parts that these components play in the rigging of your PFAS. In both cases, these products/components are required to have a minimum static strength of 5,000 lbs. For additional details on requirements for connectors and connecting devices, see OSHA 1926.502 at www.osha.gov as referenced in section 1, advisory #1.

A connector is any metallic, mechanical element such as a carabiner, snap hook or rebar hook that physically links one or more elements of a your PFAS together in a manner such that they will remain engaged to one another unless they are intentionally disengaged.

A connecting device is an element that connects your full body harness to the anchorag e in an effort to ensure that you remain attached or tethered to the structure upon which you are working. In other words, the connecting device is that element which secures you to your anchorage.

2.4: Deceleration Devices

A deceleration device is the element of a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) which is activated during a fall event and reduces the forces exerted on the user’s body and on the anchorage during the arrest of the fall. In the case of Shock-Absorbing Lanyards and SelfRetracting Lifelines, these products are both a connecting device and a decelera tion device as they will keep you attached to your anchorage and will reduce the forces on your body in the event of a fall.

2.5: Fall Arrest Fall Arrest is an area of Fall Protection which focuses on stopping a fall once it has occurred.

Personal Fall Arrest Systems typically consist of an anchorage, a full body harness and a selfretracting lifeline, shock-absorbing lanyard or other deceleration device design ed to bring a falling user to a stop in the shortest possible distance while limiting the force imparted to the user’s body.

2.6: Fall Restraint

Fall Restraint is an area of Fall Protection devoted to restraining the user of the system in a manner which restricts his or her access to the fall hazard in a manner such that they cannot be subjected to a fall. A typical Fall Restraint System consists of an anchorage, a full body harness or a restraint belt and a restraint lanyard. A Shock-Absorbing Lanyard or a Self-Retracting Lifeline should never be utilized in a restraint application as it they not capable of restricting a user’s access to fall hazards.

2.7: Work Positioning

Work Positioning is an area of Fall Protection devoted to allowing a user to work on a vertical surface by means of a positioning assembly, and restricting the user’s exposure to a fall of no more than two feet. Typical positioning assemblies consist of a large rebar hook and a length of chain, rope, wire rope or webbing with a double locking snap ho ok on either end. These snap hooks are attached to d-rings on the hips or on the waist of the user’s full body harness, with the rebar hook attached to the structure upon which the user is working. An SAL or an SRL should never be used for work positioning, nor should they ever be attached to a side or hip d-ring on a full body harness. However, while rigged for work positioning, the user should always have

an SAL or SRL attached to the back d-ring of their full body harness and tied-off to the structure on which they are positioning as a back up device.

2.8: Free-Fall

Free-Fall is the distance that a worker will fall before the connecting device or deceleration device elements of the PFAS will begin to engage during a fall event. OSHA allows a maximum Free-Fall Distance of 6’ (6 feet) when rigging a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). In some cases, exceptions may be allowed when there is no practical way to limit the Free-Fall Distance to 6’, such as a job-site where no overhead anchor-point is available. Tying off in a manner that would create a Free-Fall greater than 6’ should always be a last resort. If you are rigging a system that allows more than 6’ of Free-Fall, make sure your Connecting Device/Deceleration Device is rated for this application.

2.9: Clear-Fall

Clear-Fall or Clear-Fall Distance is the distance that is required to safely arrest the fall of a user. When working at heights and using a PFAS, it is important to consider the distance between the walking/working level and the next lower level to ensure that the components selected are capable of arresting the user’s fall before they hit the next lower level. The required Clear-Fall Distance can easily be calculated by adding together the Free-Fall Distance, the Deceleration Distance, the height of the user plus a safety factor of 2 feet. The formula for calculating Clear-Fall Distance is shown below:

Free-Fall Distance + Deceleration Distance + Height of Worker + Safety Factor = Clear-Fall Distance

The matrix on the next page can be used as a guide for calculating Clear-Fall Distance on your job-site:

Free-Fall Distance

(OSHA allows up to 6’)

Deceleration Distance

(Typically 3.5’ or less)

Height of Worker 6’

Safety Factor

(Minimum of 2’)

Total

(Sum of all values)

Example Values Actual Values

6’

3.5’

2’

17.5’

See figure 2.1 on the next page for a graphic illustration of Clear-Fall Distance and the method for calculating. It is also necessary to consider the fall path when determining the Clear-Fall limitations in your application. Ensure the fall path is clear of obstructions, protrusions, equipment or materials that may be a hazard in the event of a fall. Pay special attention to those items which may present an impalement hazard. Obstructions in the fall path may be just as hazardous as the fall itself, and your PFAS may not be able to protect you from these hazards. Failure to clear the fall path may result in serious injury or death. Rig your PFAS with extreme caution, and be aware of all of the factors that may come into play in the event of a fall.

Figure 2.1: Clear-Fall Diagram

2.10: Swing-Fall

Swing-Fall is the phenomenon that occurs when the user falls from a location that is not directly adjacent to, or directly below the anchorage connector. This is also referred to as the “pendulum effect”, and can result in a situation where the user is not only falling vertically, but is also swinging on the horizontal as well. This can bring additional hazards into play, as you may swing into an obstruction or structural element, causing serious injuries (see figure 2.2). A significant Swing-Fall may also require increased Clear-Fall distance. As a rule of thumb, you

should ensure work in an area that does not exceed an angle greater than 15 d egrees in any direction from your anchorage.

Figure 2.2: Swing-Fall Diagram

Be sure to consider Swing-Fall when calculating your Clear-Fall requirements and checking the fall path for hazards and instructions. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or death. Should you have any questions regarding Free-Fall, Clear-Fall, Swing-Fall or other hazards in the fall path, be sure to contact FallTech or consult with a competent person or your direct supervisor on your job-site.

Section 3: Use and Limitations

This section deals with the general use and limitations of FallTech D-Ring Extenders. Please read this section and all sections of this manual thoroughly. If your application is not addressed, or if you have questions regarding your specific needs, please contact FallTech immediately for additional guidance.

3.1: General Guidelines

A D-Ring Extender is an accessory for use with your Full Body Harness (FBH). D-ring Extenders are typically used in a variety of applications in order to make it easier to connect a Self-Retracting Lifeline or Shock-Absorbing Lanyard to your Full Body Harness. This is particularly useful if you are moving between multiple work locations having fixed Self-Retracting Lifelines mounted overhead.

Before using this product, the user should be trained in the use of fall arrest products and should have completed a minimum course of instruction (4-8 hours) for Authorized Person Training as outlined in ANSI Z359.2-2007. The user must also read and be familiar with all of the

material contained in this instruction manual as well as all labels and warnings affixed to the FallTech D-Ring Extender. The user must also read, understand and comply with the instructional materials, labels and warnings of the other components of their Personal Fall arrest System. If you have any questions regarding the use or operation of this product, please contact FallTech, a competent person, or your immediate supervisor before using.

This product must be inspected before each use. For details on proper inspection procedures, please refer to section 8 of this manual. Should this product fail to pass inspection, it must be immediately removed from service and replaced.

D-Ring Extenders have the potential to increase your Free-Fall Distance, affecting your overall Fall Distance and may also increase the risk of Swing-Fall. Be sure that your Personal Fall Arrest System (including this D-ring Extender) is rigged so as to limit your Free-Fall Distance to 6 feet or less. Refer back to sections 2.8, 2.9 and 2.10 for additional details. If you have questions about proper rigging, consult a competent person or your supervisor.

This product meets the requirements of OSHA 1926.502 as well as ANSI Z359.1-2007 and/or ANSI A10.32-2004. For further details on these requirements, please go to www.osha.gov to review the OSHA requirements. Copies of the ANSI standards are available at www.asse.org in the e-standards store.

3.2: Approved Applications

This D-Ring Extender is approved for Fall Arrest and Travel Restraint Applications where easier access to the back d-ring of your Full Body Harness is required, provided that the additional working length of your connection does not pose a hazard.

There are three basic types of D-Ring Extenders:

 Snap hook with single d-ring: A double-locking sna p hook connected to a single d-ring

or o-ring by a length of webbing.

 Snap hook with loop: A length of webbing with a web-loop at one end, and a sin gle d-

ring or o-ring at the opposite end.

 Snap hook with 2 d-rings: A double-locking snap hook connected to a pair of d-rings or

o-rings by a length of webbing.

D-ring Extenders have additional uses. They can also be attached to an overhead anchorage connector in order to provide an extension, making it easier to connect to.

D-ring Extenders may, in some cases, also be used as an anchorage connector. The snap hook or web loop can be attached to a structural anchorage (such as structural rebar), provided that the connection is compatible and will fully captivate the snap hook. See section 3.4 for additional information on D-ring Extenders as anchorage connectors.

Also, be sure to consult Section 5 of this instruction manual for details on anchorage considerations, as the anchorage and its relationship to the walking/working surface will be an important factor in determining suitability and could contribute to the outcome of a fall event. Use of an anchor point that is not properly rated could lead to a catastrophic failure of your personal fall arrest system, which may result in serious injury or death.

3.3: Restricted Applications D-ring Extenders must not be used in any application where the additional length may

increase the Free-Fall beyond the rating of your Shock-Absorbing Lanyard, Self-Retracting Lifeline or Rope Grab (i.e. Rope Adjuster, Fall Arrestor or Rope Grab).

D-ring Extenders must not be used in any application where they will increase your fall distance enough to exceed the Clear-Fall requirements of your Personal Fall Arrest System.

D-ring Extenders are rated only for single users, with a maximum capacity of 310 lbs. Never attempt to attach multiple users to a D-ring Extender under any circumstances.

3.4: Installation and Use – Full Body Harness

D-ring Extenders must only be attached to the back d-ring of your Full Body Harness. Never attempt to connect a D-ring Extender to a front, side or hip d-ring under any circumstances.

1. For D-ring extenders having a snap hook at the attachment end, attach this snap hook to the back d-ring of your full body harness and ensure that the gate closes and latches automatically. For web loop versions, pass the web loop through the back d-ring of your full body harness and then pass the d-ring or d-rings through the loop and choke the Extender down around the back d-ring of your FBH.

2. Proceed to your work location and tie-off using your preferred connecting device (ShockAbsorbing Lanyard or Self-Retracting Lifeline) by fastening the attachment-end connector to the d-ring at the end of your extender. Be sure that you are using your ShockAbsorbing Lanyard or Self-Retracting Lifeline in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. If you are using a twin d-ring style D-ring Extender, you may have a Shock-Absorbing Lanyard attached to one of the two d-rings, leaving the other d-ring available for attachment to a Self-Retracting Lifeline. In this configuration, if you are tied-off to the Self-Retracting Lifeline, be sure that the anchorage-end connector or connectors on your Shock Absorbing Lanyard are attached to the lanyard keepers or lanyard parking locations on your Full Body Harness.

4. Do not attempt to connect more than one connector (i.e. snap hook or carabiner) to the back d-ring of your Full Body Harness – this is an incompatible connection. If you need to make multiple connections to your back d-ring, you may use two web loop style D-ring Extenders (i.e. model # 7366L / 8366L) or you may select and twin d-ring style (i.e. model # 7366TD / 8366TD or 73662D / 83662D).

5. Do not attempt to connect more than one device to the d-ring or o-ring on your D-ring Extender. If you are using or transitioning between multiple devices, be sure to use a twin d-ring style D-ring Extender (i.e. 8366TD or 83662D).

Once the above steps have been taken, the user will have access to their work area while walking and moving at normal speeds. It is important not to make sudden or dramatic movements! When using this device, care must be taken to be aware of the work environment and any hazards, obstructions or obstacles that may exist. Be careful of any and all fall hazards and also be aware of slipping and tripping hazards as well.

3.5: Installation and Use – Anchorage Connector Extension In the event that you are utilizing an overhead-mounted anchorage connector (i.e. a beam

anchor mounted 10 feet above the walking working surface), a D-ring Extender may be used to grant easier access to your anchorage. Model numbers 7366TD / 8366TD, 73662D / 83662D and 7366L / 8366L may not be used in this application.

1. Ensure that the connection point (d-ring, o-ring or formed eye) on your anchorage connector is compatible with the hook on your D-ring Extender. Also ensure that the Dring Extender will not be exposed to sharp/abrasive edges or any other object or obstruction that could cause damage or force a disengagement in the event of a fall.

2. Connect your D-ring Extender to your anchorage connector and ensure that the gate on the hook closes and locks securely and automatically. Check to ensure that you will have sufficient fall clearance with the additional length of your D-ring Extender factored in.

3. Tie-off to the D-ring Extender with your Shock-Absorbing Lanyard, Self-Retracting Lifeline or Vertical Lifeline system in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

3.6: Installation and Use – Anchorage Connector Under certain circumstances, model #’s 7202 / 8202, 7366 / 8366, 736616 / 836616, 736 624 /

836624 and 73663 / 83663 may be used as an anchorage connector. Suitable anchorages include rigid structural members or structural rebar that are properly rated (see Section 5 of this manual), that are horizontal to the walking/working surface and are closed-ended (will not allow the hook to slide off of the end).

1. Select your anchor point and ensure that it is properly rated (as specified in Section 5 of this manual) and that it is closed-ended. The anchor point must be small enough in diameter that it will fit inside the hook and allow the gate to close and lock securely.

2. Connect your D-ring Extender to the anchorage or anchor point and ensure the gate on the hook closes and latches securely. Check to ensure that the hook can not slide vertically or diagonally in a manner that would increase your fall distance.

3. Check to ensure that your anchorage or anchor point captivates the hook on your D-ring Extender so as to prevent it from sliding off the end of the structural member. Check also to ensure that there is not object or obstructions which may force a disengagement in the event of a fall.

4. Tie-off to the D-ring Extender with your Shock-Absorbing Lanyard, Self-Retracting Lifeline or Vertical Lifeline system in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Section 4: Product Selection

Product selection is as important as the proper use of the product itself. Poor judgment in product selection can have catastrophic results – therefore be sure to consult a competent person to ensure that the product that is issued is appropriate for the application and the specific location for which it is intended.

ANSI Z359.1-2007, Section 7 describes in detail the steps that should be taken with regard to the selection of fall arrest equipment. FallTech strongly encourages the use of this guide by those who employ users of fall arrest products. The ANSI standard recommends the following steps be taken:

 A workplace assessment by a competent person taking into account the presence of

sources of extreme heat, chemicals, electrical hazards, environmental contaminants, sharp objects, abrasive surfaces; moving equipment and materials, unstable, uneven and slippery walking/working surfaces; unguarded openings; climatic/weather factors and

foreseeable changes to these conditions. Care must be taken to ensure that the equipment that is selected is suitable for use where any of these conditions may exist.

 The workplace assessment must identify all paths of movement and the fall hazards

along these paths. Care must be taken to ensure that there are proper anchorages at appropriate intervals along these paths to protect the users from these hazards without exposure to swing-fall conditions. The PFAS selected must limit the fall distance in order to avoid contact with the next lower level in the event of a fall.



Anchorage connectors should be selected on the basis of their suitability for attachment to the anchor point to ensure a compatible and secure connection.

 The exposure of the anchorage connector to sharp edges, abrasive surfaces and other

physical/structural hazards should be considered when evaluating compatibility.

 The competent person shall calculate the weight of all authorized persons when fully

equipped to ensure that they are within the maximum capacity of the PFAS.

 A full body harness meeting the requirements of Z359 shall be selected, and it shall be

sized to fit the user as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Connectors that are selected shall be suitably sized and shaped so as to be compatible



with the devices to which they will be attached.

 The competent person shall select the method of protecting the equipment from damage

by workplace conditions, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

 The competent person shall check the equipment instructions and markings to ensure

compliance with the appropriate standards and will ensure that manufacturer’s instructions; markings and warnings are read and followed.

 If the PFAS that is selected is made up of components from different manufacturers, the

competent person will ensure that these components are compatible.

FallTech strongly encourages that the following points also be considered in the course of product selection, in addition to the points above:

 Select the anchorage connector that is most appropriate for your application and for the

anchor point to which it will be attached. While sling-style anchors are popular because of their versatility, they are not always the best choice where sharp or angular edges are present on the structure to which they are attached.

 Select a full body harness of appropriate durability for your workplace which contains all

of the attachment elements that you will require. Never attach any SRL to anything other than the back/dorsal d-ring or the front/chest d-ring of your full body harness.

 Depending on workplace conditions and hazards, you may need to employ multiple

systems or different combinations of components. Do not try and force the system to fit the application. Use of the correct equipment is the best policy.

Section 5: Anchorage Considerations

OSHA 1910.66 and 1926.502 state that anchorages used for attachment of a PFAS must be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms, and must support at least 5,000 lbs. per user attached, or be designed, installed and used as part of a complete PFAS which maintains a safety factor of at least two, and is supervised by a qualified person (architect, structural engineer, etc.).

The anchor-point to which this D-ring Extender is attached must capable of sustaining static loads in directions applied by the personal fall arrest system of at least 3,600 lbs (or at least twice the expected dynamic load) with certification of a qualified person (architect, structural engineer, etc.), or 5,000 lbs in the absence of certification. If multiple personal fall arrest systems are being

attached to the same anchorage, the minimum values stated above must be multiplied by the number of users.

Ensure that this D-ring Extender is compatible with the anchor point to which you are attaching it. Be sure that this D-ring Extender is compatible with other elements of your Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) by checking the manufacturer’s instructions for these components.

Be sure that your anchorage is mounted overhead or above the level of the back d-ring of your full body harness if at all possible. Be sure to calculate your clear-fall (as discussed in section

2.9) and to avoid swing fall hazards. Ensure the fall path is clear of obstructions and impalement hazards.

Section 6: Employer and User Training

6.1: Special notes for the Employer

As an employer, you may be obliged to provide Personal Protective Equipment (to include Personal Fall Arrest and Fall Protection Equipment) along with an appropriate amount of training to your employees so that they will be adequately prepared to use this equipment in the course of their work. If you are unsure about your duty to provide fall protection, consult Title 29 CFR, section 1926.501 which can easily be viewed at www.osha.gov. Another important resource for employers is the Consensus standard on Managed Fall Protection: ANSI Z359.2-2007.

Equally important is the subject of product/equipment selection. If you are obliged to provide fall protection equipment for your employees, be sure to consult with or appoint a competent or qualified person to select and prescribe equipment that is suitable to address the specific hazards which may be present on your job-site or in your facility. There are different products for different applications, and under many circumstances these products are not interchangeable. If you have questions as to whether this product is suitable for your application, please contact FallTech for assistance.

It is important to note that improper use of fall arrest equipment can be just as dangerous as not using it at all. Failure to adequately train and supervise your employees may result in serious injury or death. It is critical to have a training program supported by documentation, refresher/remedial training and to establish best practices where the employment of all PPE is concerned.

6.2: User Training

It is the responsibility of the user of this equipment to read and fully understand these instructions before employing this product as part of a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). Every user of fall protection should be provided a four to eight hour course of instruction for the Authorized User. Training must also be provided in the use of each component of the user’s PFAS and in the recognition of fall hazards. During the course of this training, the user may not be exposed to a fall hazard.

In the absence of a formal training program, FallTech has designed these instructional materials to act as an abbreviated course of instruction in an effort to give the user an over-view of fall arrest. This manual does not constitute a comprehensive training program, and it is not allinclusive. Be sure to consult www.osha.gov for details on OSHA requirements for training. FallTech has additional services available to assist with end-user training – contact a FallTech sales professional for additional details.

As a minimum, training should address the following points:

 ABCD’s of Fall Arrest (as discussed in Section 2).

 Recognition of fall hazards.  Fall hazard elimination and control methods.  Applicable fall protection regulations and standards.  The responsibilities of designated perso n s (Authorized, Competent, Qualified).  How to use written fall protection procedures.  Inspection of equipment components and systems before use.  Fall protection rescue procedures.  Installation and use of products common to your duties, job-site or facility.

It is important to note that improper use of this equipment can be just as dangerous as not using it at all. Failure to read, understand and follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death.

Section 7: Fall Protection Plan

Title 29 CFR, section 1926.500 – 503 requires that an employer have a written fall protection plan where fall hazards exist. The best way to address a fall hazard is to eliminate it entirely or to employ a passive system to restrict access to the hazard (i.e. guardrails, netting, covers, etc.) Fall arrest products are the last line of defense in the hierarchy of fall protection, and should be used as a last resort by employees who have been thoroughly trained. The accepted fall protection hierarchy is as follows:

 Eliminate the fall hazard.  Passive fall protection (guardrails, safety nets, barriers, etc.).  Fall Restraint (prevent the worker from having access to the fall hazard by using a fixed

lanyard which is short enough to restrict access to the hazard).

 Fall Arrest (utilizing Personal Fall Arrest Systems).  Administrative Controls (use of warning lines, controlled access zones o r monitors).

Two exceptional resources for developing a written fall protection plan are OSHA 1926 Subpart M, Appendix E and ANSI Z359.2-2007. All ANSI standards are available for purchase at www.ansi.org in the e-standards store.

7.1: The Fall Protection Plan

As a minimum, a fall protection plan should identify and/or address the following points:

 Any and all fall hazards which may exist on your job-site or in your facility.  Steps that have been taken to eliminate each fall hazard.  Equipment that has been or will be employed to address each fall hazard.  Provisions for 100% continuous fall protection in the vicinity of all fall hazards.  Training procedures for all authorized persons.  Identification of acceptable anchorages for positioning , restraint and fall arrest.  Clear-fall requirements.  Use and egress from the system.  Limitations on use of the system (maximum Free-fall, arrest force and maximum

number and permitted locations of authorized persons who may use the system).

 Procedures for installation, use and removal of the system.  Detailed instructions for inspection of systems and system components to include

rejection criteria and replacement procedures.

 A detailed plan and procedures for the rescue of a worker who may be involved in

a fall event.

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FallTech 83663 User Manual [en, es]

Specifications and Main Features

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User Manual