Fall Protection

Harnesses: Beyond the Basics

Materials and Durability:

• • Harnesses are typically made from synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester, chosen for their strength and resistance to abrasion.

  • Webbing width and thickness influence strength. Wider webbing distributes force better.

  • Look for harnesses with UV-resistant webbing, especially for outdoor work.

Specialized Harnesses:

• • Positioning Harnesses: Used for work positioning, allowing workers to lean back and work hands-free (e.g., utility pole work). They have side D-rings.

  • Rescue Harnesses: Designed for confined space rescue or high-angle rescue, with specific attachment points for rescue equipment.

  • Arc Flash Harnesses: Made from non-conductive materials for electrical work.

Inspection Details:

• • Check for frayed or cut webbing, broken stitching, deformed D-rings, and damaged buckles.

  • Look for signs of chemical damage (discoloration, stiffness).

  • Inspect labels for legibility and compliance with standards.

  • Inspect shock absorbing lanyards to ensure that the tear away pack is intact.

Anchor Points: Engineering and Verification

Engineered Anchor Points:

• • These are designed and installed by qualified engineers, with documented load capacities.

  • They may be permanent fixtures (e.g., roof anchors) or temporary systems (e.g., beam clamps).

Structural Steel:

• • Verify the steel's load-bearing capacity and suitability as an anchor point.

  • Use appropriate connectors (e.g., beam clamps, slings).

Temporary Anchor Points:

• • Roofing carts, weighted anchor systems, and other temporary solutions must be installed and used according to manufacturer instructions.

  • Ensure they are stable and secure.

Anchor Point Location:

• • Minimize swing falls by positioning anchor points directly overhead.

  • Consider the potential fall distance and clearance requirements.

  • If side anchors must be used, calculations of swing fall distance must be made.

Lanyards and SRLs: Specifics and Considerations:

Shock-Absorbing Lanyards:

• • The shock absorber should activate at a specific force to limit impact.

  • Inspect the tear-away pack for signs of activation.

  • Understand the maximum fall distance and clearance requirements.

Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs):

• • Choose SRLs with appropriate working lengths and braking mechanisms.

  • Ensure the SRL is compatible with the harness and anchor point.

  • SRLs that have been involved in a fall, must be removed from service.

Connectors:

• • Use locking snap hooks or carabiners to prevent accidental disconnection.

  • Ensure connectors are compatible with the harness and anchor point.

  • Avoid side loading of snap hooks.

Rescue Procedures: Advanced Planning:

Suspension Trauma:

• • Understand the risks and symptoms of suspension trauma.

  • Provide suspension trauma straps to allow fallen workers to relieve pressure on their legs.

Rescue Equipment:

• • Rescue poles, descent devices, and rope systems should be readily available.

  • Ensure rescue equipment is inspected and maintained regularly.

Rescue Training:

• • Conduct regular rescue drills to practice rescue procedures.

  • Train personnel on how to use rescue equipment and perform assisted rescues.

  • Training should include how to determine that a person is unconscious, and how to lower them to the ground safely.

Emergency Response Plan:

• • Develop a written emergency response plan that includes procedures for fall rescues.

  • Communicate the plan to all workers.

Commonly Observed Problems: Real-World Scenarios

• Using Guardrails as Anchor Points: Guardrails are often not designed to withstand fall forces.

• Improper Ladder Use: Standing on the top step of a ladder or overreaching can lead to falls.

• Unprotected Roof Edges: Working on roofs without guardrails or fall protection systems is extremely dangerous.

• Ladders on Scaffolding: Ladders should never be used on any sort of scaffolding.

• Lack of Fall Hazard Awareness: Workers may underestimate the risks of falls in seemingly low-risk situations.

• Using Damaged Equipment: Workers may continue to use damaged harnesses, lanyards, or SRLs.

• Not having a competent person: OSHA requires that a competent person is on site to inspect, and approve fall protection systems.