Limitations - Guardian VLA Instruction Manual

Restraint: VLAs may be used in Restraint applications. Restraint systems prevent workers from
reaching the leading edge of a fall hazard. Always account for fully deployed length of lanyard/VLA.
Structure must withstand loads applied in the directions permitted by the system of at least
1,000 lbs. No vertical free fall is permitted. Restraint systems may only be used on surfaces with
slopes up to 4/12 (vertical/horizontal). Applicable D-rings: Dorsal, Chest, Side, Shoulder.
(including all clothing, tools, and equipment) is 130-310 lbs.

Limitations

Fall Clearance: There must be sufficient clearance below the anchorage connector to arrest a fall before the
user strikes the ground or an obstruction. When calculating fall clearance, account for a MINIMUM 3' safety
factor, deceleration distance, user height, length of lanyard/SRL, and all other applicable factors.
Diagram shown is an example fall clearance calculation ONLY.
Swing Falls: Prior to installation or use, make considerations for eliminating or minimizing all swing fall
hazards. Swing falls occur when the anchor is not directly above the location where a fall occurs. Always work
as close to in line with the anchor point as possible. Swing falls significantly increase the likelihood of serious
injury or death in the event of a fall.
Compatibility: When making connections with VLA, eliminate all possibility of roll-out. Roll-out occurs when
interference between a hook and the attachment point causes the hook gate to unintentionally open and
release. All connections must be selected and deemed compatible with VLA by a Competent Person. All
connector gates must be self-closing and self-locking, and withstand minimum loads of 3,600 lbs. See the
following for examples of compatible/incompatible connections:
FALL CLEARANCE CALCULATION
Potential
free fall
(6' total)
Deceleration
Required
distance (4' total)
distance
from
anchorage
(16' total)
Height of harness
dorsal D-ring from
worker's feet
(6' total)
Safety factor
(3' total)
For all applications: worker weight capacity range
FREE FALL CALCULATION
Standard 6'
lanyard shown
Anchor point
12'
free
Free fall ends/
fall
deceleration
begins
Max 48"
Deceleration
Dorsal
D-ring
6' above
anchor
Dorsal
D-ring
level with
anchor
6'
free
fall
2