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1.0 APPLICATIONS
1.1
PURPOSE: 3M Self-Retracting Devices (SRDs) are designed to be a component in a personal fall arrest system (PFAS). Figure 1 illustrates
SRDs covered by this instruction manual and their typical applications. They may be used in most situations where a combination of worker
mobility and fall protection is required (i.e. inspection work, general construction, maintenance work, oil production, confined space work,
etc.).
1.2
STANDARDS: Your SRD conforms to the national or regional standard(s) identified on the front cover of these instructions.
1.3
TRAINING: This equipment is intended to be used by persons trained in its correct application and use. It is the responsibility of the user to assure
they are familiar with these instructions and are trained in the correct care and use of this equipment. Users must also be aware of the operating
characteristics, application limits, and the consequences of improper use.
1.4
LIMITATIONS: Always consider the following limitations and requirements when installing or using this equipment:
•
Capacity: This SRD has been compliance tested for use by one person with a combined weight (clothing, tools, etc.) from 130 lbs (59
kg) to 310 lbs (140 kg).
•
Anchorage: Anchorages selected for fall arrest systems shall have a strength capable of sustaining static loads applied in the
directions permitted by the system of at least:
1.
5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN) for non-certified anchorages, or
2.
Two times the maximum arresting force for certified anchorages.
When more than one fall arrest system is attached to an anchorage, the strengths set forth in (1) and (2) above shall
be multiplied by the number of systems attached to the anchorage.
;
From OSHA 1926.500 and 1910.66: Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest systems shall be independent of any
anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms, and capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbs. per user attached, or be designed,
installed, and used as part of a complete personal fall arrest systems which maintains a safety factor of at least two, and is under the
supervision of a qualified person. In Canada, refer to local regulations where applicable.
•
Locking Speed: Situations which do not allow for an unobstructed fall path should be avoided. Working in confined or cramped
spaces may not allow the body to reach sufficient speed to cause the SRD to lock if a fall occurs. Working on slowly shifting material,
such as sand or grain,may not allow enough speed buildup to cause the SRD to lock. A clear path is required to assure positive locking
of the SRD.
•
Free Fall: When used correctly, SRDs will limit the free fall distance to 2 ft. (61 cm). To avoid increased fall distances, do not work above the
anchorage level. Do not lengthen SRDs by connecting a lanyard or similar component without consulting 3M. Never clamp,
knot, or prevent the lifeline from retracting or being taut. Avoid slack line.
•
Swing Falls: Swing Falls occur when the anchorage point is not directly above the point where a fall occurs. The force of striking an
object in a swing fall may cause serious injury (see Figure 3A). Minimize swing falls by working as directly below the anchorage point
as possible (Figure 3B). Working away from the anchorage point (Figure 3C) will increase the impact of a swing fall and increase the
required Fall Clearance (FC).
•
Fall Clearance: Figure 3B illustrates Fall Clearance Calculation. Fall Clearance (FC) is the sum of Free Fall (FF), Deceleration Distance (DD)
and a Safety Factor (SF): FC = FF +DD + SF. D-Ring Slide and Harness Stretch are included in the Safety Factor. Fall Clearance values have
been calculated and are charted in Figure 4. A Safety Factor of .45m (1.5 ft) was used for all values in Figure 4.
Figure 4 illustrates Fall Clearance (FC) based on the Horizontal (H) and Vertical (V) distance between the dorsal SRD connection and
the anchorage point. Each horizontal grid line on the chart(s) represents vertical distance from the anchorage point. Each vertical grid
line represents horizontal distance from the anchorage point. The Fall Clearance value (FC) is determined by the zone (parabolic lines)
in which the Horizontal (H) and Vertical (V) grid lines intersect. The example in Figure 4 shows how to determine the required Fall
Clearance value (FC) for the stated Vertical (V) and Horizontal (H) distances.
;
Variable Anchor Points: Fall Clearances in Figure 4 are based on a rigid, stationary anchor point. If anchoring to a Horizontal
Lifeline (HLL) or anchor point that can move, slide, or deform during a fall, the Fall Clearance values from Figure 4 will not
apply. Refer to the instructions for the HLL or anchor for additional details regarding required fall clearances, deflections, and/or
deformation.
;
Kneeling or Crouching: The Clearance Charts in Figure 4 assume the worker is in a standing position, with the SRD anchored
above the dorsal D-ring. If the worker will be kneeling or crouching, an additional 0.9 m (3 ft) of Fall Clearance is required.
;
Never Anchor below the feet: Never connect to an anchorage point below your feet.
•
Hazards: Use of this equipment in areas where surrounding hazards exist may require additional precautions to reduce the possibility of injury
to the user or damage to the equipment. Hazards may include, but are not limited to: high heat, caustic chemicals, corrosive environments, high
voltage power lines, explosive or toxic gases, moving machinery, or overhead materials that may fall and contact the user or fall arrest system. Avoid
working where your lifeline may cross or tangle with that of another worker. Avoid working where an object may fall and strike the lifeline; resulting
in loss of balance or damage to the lifeline. Do not allow the lifeline to pass under arms or between legs.
•
Sharp Edges: Avoid working where the lifeline will be in contact with or abrade against unprotected sharp edges. Where contact with a
sharp edge is unavoidable, cover the edge with a protective material.
1 Capacity: 130 lbs -310 lbs (59 kg- 140 kg) is the capacity range required by standard CSA Z259.2.2-17. Some 3M SRDs are tested to a 420 lbs (191 kg) capacity. See
Figure 1 for the SRD models covered by this instruction and their capacities.
Make sure all of the components in your system are rated to a capacity appropriate for your application.
1
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