Restraint; Work Positioning; Suspension; Rescue - Falltech 8447A User Instruction Manual

2.4 Work Positioning: Work Positioning systems are an assembly of components, subsystems
and connectors to partially support and stabilize a worker at an elevated work location and
allow the user free use of both hands.
The system shall be secured to an anchorage capable of supporting at least twice the potential
impact load of an employee's fall or 3,000 lbs., whichever is greater. Each work positioning
system installation must be independently capable of supporting these loads. Work positioning
systems allow a maximum 24" of free fall.
2.5 Suspension: Suspension systems typically include body support and a back‐up PFAS with
an FBH, with a suspension line and bosun's seat connected via a carabiner.
2.6 Rescue: Rescue systems typically include an FBH, and a specialized set of equipment to
rescue a worker after a fall event.
2.7 Application Limits: Take action to avoid sharp edges, abrasive surfaces, and thermal,
electrical and chemical hazards. Consider system requirements when making attachments.
DO NOT use the carabiners to hoist tools or materials.
3. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Capacity: The capacity of the carabiners in Specifications is listed as 425 lbs. (193 kg).
NOTE: To maintain ANSI Z359 compliance, limit total user weight to no more than 310 lbs.,
(140.6 kg), including clothing, tools, etc.
No more than one PFAS may be connected to one anchorage at one time.
3.2 Compatibility of Components: FallTech equipment is designed for use with compatible
components and subsystems only. Substitutions or replacements made with non‐approved
components or subsystems may jeopardize compatibility of equipment and may affect the
safety and reliability of the complete system. Connectors are considered to be compatible with
connecting elements when they have been designed to work together in such a way that their
sizes and shapes do not cause their gate mechanisms to inadvertently open. Contact FallTech if
you have any questions about compatibility. Connectors (hooks, carabiners, and D‐rings) must
be capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbs. (22 kN). Connectors must be compatible with the
anchorage or other system components. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Non‐
compatible connectors may unintentionally disengage. Connectors must be compatible in size,
shape, and strength. Self‐locking snap hooks and carabiners are required by ANSI Z359 and
OSHA.
3.3 Making Connections: Only use connectors that are suitable to each application. Ensure all
connections are compatible in size, shape and strength. Visually ensure all connectors are fully
closed and locked. FallTech carabiners are designed to be used only as specified in each
product's user's instructions. Ensure the carabiner is not bent, cracked, broken or otherwise
damaged. If inspection reveals a damaged carabiner, remove it from service immediately.
Ensure the lock functions normally. Connect the carabiner to line up the load along the
carabiners vertical axis. See Figure 3.
3.4 Anchorage Strength: The following lists minimum anchorage strength requirements:
 FALL ARREST: Per ANSI Z359, anchorages selected for PFAS shall have:
o a strength capable of sustaining static loads in the directions permitted by the PFAS when
in use of at least; (A) 3,600 lbs. (16 kN) when certification exists or (B) 5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN)
in absence of certification.
o OSHA requires that anchorages used for attachment of a PFAS shall be independent of
any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms. The attachment must be able
to 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 under the
supervision of a qualified person.
 RESTRAINT: Anchorages for restraint applications must support a static load of at least
3,000 lbs. (13.4 kN) applied in any direction permitted by the system when in use. Each
installation must independently sustain this load.
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