3M PROTECTA 3100418 Manual page 9

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. If this product is resold outside the original country of destination, the re-seller must provide these
instructions in the language of the country in which the product will be used.
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).
appropriate to your application.
• Anchorage: Anchorage structure for the SRD must be capable of supporting loads up to 12 kN (2,697 lbs). Anchor
devices must conform to EN795.
• 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 61 cm (2 ft). 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 1 m (3.28 ft)
was used for all values in Figure 4.
Figures 3B and 3C illustrate Fall Clearance. For falls from a standing position where the SRD is anchored directly
overhead (Figure 3B), SRD Fall Arrest Systems should have the minimum Fall Clearances specified in Table 1. Falls
from a kneeling or crouching position will require an additional 1 m (3 ft) of Fall Clearance. In a swing fall situation
(Figure 3C), the total vertical fall distance will be greater than if the user had fallen directly below the anchorage
point and may require additional Fall Clearance. Figure 4 and the accompanying table define the Maximum Work
Radius (C) for various SRD Anchorage Heights (A) and Fall Clearances (B). The Recommended Work Zone is limited to
the area located within the Maximum Work Radius.
• 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:
While CE SRDs have a Maximum Capacity of 140 kg (310 lbs), SRDs with 3-Way Retrieval are rated for a Maximum Lifting Load of 135 kg (298 lbs).
Make sure all of the components in your system are rated to a capacity
1
9