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Herowear Apex 2 exosuit User Manual

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USERS MANUAL
v.1 EN

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Summary of Contents for Herowear Apex 2 exosuit

  • Page 1 USERS MANUAL v.1 EN...
  • Page 2 HeroWear Apex Exosuit User Manual Applies to HeroWear Apex 2 exosuit components with the following SKUs: Clutch Bands: Thigh Sleeve Anchors: SK-00214 SK-00223 SK-00210 SK-00213 SK-00224 Belts: SK-00225 Shoulder Straps: SK-00226 A-AN01-121-11-BS SK-00185 SK-00227 A-AN01-121-11-BM SK-00186 SK-00228 A-AN01-121-11-BL SK-00187 SK-00229...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    9 Using the Apex 2 Exosuit ..................13 9.1 Unpacking and Assembly ..................13 9.2 Putting On (Donning) and Using Your Apex 2 Exosuit ....... 15 9.3 Adjusting the Apex 2 ....................18 9.4 How to Move or Add a Chest Strap ..............19 9.5 How to Adjust Thigh Sleeves ................
  • Page 4 11 Selection, Sizing, and Fitting ................. 32 11.1 Selection, Sizing, and Fitting ................32 11.2 General Information on Sizing, Fitting, and Adjusting the Apex 2 Exosuit ........................ 32 11.3 Before Sizing, Fitting and Adjusting the Apex 2 Exosuit ......32...
  • Page 5 11.4 How to Size and Fit Users with an Apex 2 Exosuit ........32 11.5 Apex 2 Exosuit Component Size Chart ............33 11.6 Taking a User’s Measurements for Apex 2 Exosuit ........34 12 Hazards and Protective Strategies .............. 36 12.1 Unguarded Moving Parts ..................
  • Page 6 13.2 Improper Cleaning, Sanitation, Disinfection and/or Decontamination ....................43 13.3 Direct Contact with Users’ Skin ................ 43 13.4 Excessive Strain on the Apex 2 Exosuit ............43 13.5 Contact with Salt Water, Chlorinated Water, or Dirty Water ...................... 44 13.6 Contact with Clean Water ................... 44 13.7 Contact with Abrasive Substances and/ Or Materials Such...

  • Page 7: Part 1: User Manual

    USER MANUAL PART: 1...

  • Page 8: About The Apex 2 User Manual

    5 Intended Use The HeroWear Apex 2 is intended to be used by adults for work performed in industrial environments. The Apex is designed to support and assist the low back (with secondary assistance for knees and hips) to reduce strain, fatigue, and risk for injury while performing bending, stooping, leaning, reaching, squatting, and lifting tasks.

  • Page 9: Caution For Users

    6 Caution for Users The Apex 2 exosuit can only be used safely and reliably when the instructions contained in this user manual, including inspection guidelines, see Chapter 10, Inspection, Storage, Care, and Maintenance of Apex 2 are followed. Avoid working with Apex 2 exosuits in ways not outlined or explained in this user manual without first consulting with knowledgeable HeroWear support staff.

  • Page 10: Apex 2 Support Personnel

    The Apex 2 exosuit does not increase strength, allow users to lift loads that are heavier than they can generally lift, or prevent injuries that arise from improper lifting techniques. For...

  • Page 11: Parts And Operations

    Parts and Operations The Apex 2’s shoulder straps are one component and are worn like a backpack. Thigh sleeves are worn around the thigh in a manner similar to athletic equipment like thigh pads or thigh compression garments. The upper and lower body components are connected with high-strength elastic bands which stretch as the user bends, leans, stoops, squats, or lifts.

  • Page 12: Lift Assistance On (Engaged)

    • Crawling • Other awkward positions or movements where back assistance is not needed The Apex 2 exosuit is not intended to be used in the following ways: • Without proper cleaning, sanitization, or decontamination by a trained person • Without user-specific fitting and adjustment by a trained person •...

  • Page 13: Using The Apex 2 Exosuit

    9 Using the Apex 2 Exosuit When the Apex 2 arrives from HeroWear, initial assembly of the suit may be required before first use. Unpacking and Assembly Open the box(s) containing the Apex 2 components carefully. If using a box cutter to open the boxes, please use caution and do not cut too deep as this would risk damage to the Apex 2.
  • Page 14 Once the clutch is rested, turn it to the left until it clicks and is secured. Ensure the cable is captured by the hook and loop fastener on the upper left shoulder strap. Clip the switch to one of two switch loops on the left side of the shoulder strap.

  • Page 15: Putting On (Donning) And Using Your Apex 2 Exosuit

    Putting On (Donning) and Using Your Apex 2 Exosuit Your Apex 2 exosuit has been sized and assembled so you can wear it comfortably for a full work shift. Putting on the Apex 2 exosuit properly will ensure your exosuit works as intended and you remain comfortable all day.
  • Page 16 Connect the chest strap by hooking the end of the chest strap into the loop on the front of the left shoulder strap most closely aligned with the location of the MOLLE-T connection on the right shoulder strap. Tighten the shoulder straps first by pulling down and back on the webbing for each strap.
  • Page 17 Please note: We recommend using your own belt, but a belt is included with each Apex 2 exosuit. Multiple belts are included Apex 2 bulk user kits .

  • Page 18: Adjusting The Apex 2

    Repeat for both legs. Fold all loose webbing on the shoulder straps, thigh sleeves, and thigh sleeve anchors and secure them in their webbing keepers. Adjusting the Apex 2 While wearing the exosuit, if at any point the device loses the proper adjustment or needs to be readjusted, users should stop what they are doing and adjust fit.

  • Page 19: How To Move Or Add A Chest Strap

    How to Move or Add a Chest Strap • The chest strap may need to be moved or a secondary chest strap added to fit the user properly. Adding or moving the chest strap can pull the shoulder straps toward the inner part of the user’s shoulder, creating a vest-style fit. This can prevent or alleviate shoulder strap discomfort around the underarms and sensitive areas.

  • Page 20: How To Adjust Thigh Sleeves

    How to Adjust Thigh Sleeves • To tighten thigh sleeves, hold the buckle and pull the webbing in towards the inner thigh. Once tightened ensure your bands are aligned along the center of the buttock and the buckle is aligned with the outside seam of your pants. •...

  • Page 21: Ensuring Proper Use Of Bands

    Ensuring Proper Use of Bands • There should be no slack in the bands when the user is standing upright. ○ Shorter bands should be used if there is less than one (1) inch (3 cm) of rope extended from the clutch when the user is standing upright. ○...

  • Page 22: Using The Switch To Operate Apex 2

    Off (disengaged) position. Note Auto Lock Feature: If you disengage the Apex 2 exosuit while the rope and bands are still under tension, the clutch will stay locked until there is no longer tension on the rope.

  • Page 23: Wear Schedule

    9.10 Taking Off (Doffing) Your Apex 2 Exosuit To take off the Apex 2 exosuit, make sure the suit is in the OFF (disengaged) mode. Begin by unhooking each of the thigh sleeve anchors from the belt, leaving the thigh sleeve anchors attached to the thigh sleeves.

  • Page 24: Disassembly Of The Apex 2

    9.12 Disassembly of the Apex 2 You may need to disassemble the Apex 2 for deep cleaning, maintenance, or to change certain parts. Follow the instructions listed below. 9.13 Removing Thigh Sleeve Anchors: • Uninstall the thigh sleeve anchors from the MOLLE-T loops on the thigh sleeves. (See section 9.6, How to Move or Replace Thigh Sleeve Anchors for directions) Detaching Thigh Sleeves From Bands:...

  • Page 25: Remove Chest Strap From Shoulder Straps

    9.18 Remove Chest Strap from Shoulder Straps: • Unhook the chest strap from the left shoulder strap if it is connected. Remove the MOLLE-T from the right shoulder strap by pulling the “T” bar away from the shoulder strap webbing. Then turn the “T” 90 degrees so that it is pointed to the webbing and guide it through.

  • Page 26: Inspection, Storage, Care, And Maintenance Of Apex 2

    10 Inspection, Storage, Care, and Maintenance of Apex 2 10.1 How to Perform Daily Inspections When inspecting the Apex 2 suit, check for the following conditions: Wear and tear (e.g. rips, cuts, or fraying) on fabric components of the Apex 2 exosuit such as the shoulder straps, webbing, bands, or thigh sleeves that may impact function or make them unsafe to use Ripped, cut, peeling, or missing pieces of foam on the back panel...

  • Page 27: Weekly/Monthly/Other Inspection

    • We recommend spraying all surfaces of the Apex 2 with an alcohol-based disinfectant spray after each day’s use. • Store the Apex 2 exosuit by hanging it by the shoulder straps on a rack, hook, or hanger with sufficient airflow to allow the device to dry thoroughly.

  • Page 28: Service Liffe Of The Apex 2

    10.5 Service Life of the Apex 2 The expected service life of the Apex 2 exosuit will vary depending on the amount and type of use to, the environment where it is used, and adherence to the recom- mended care and maintenance procedure outlined in this manual. Longer daily use in harsh environments will increase the wear and tear on the Apex and reduce its service life.

  • Page 29: Daily Sanitizing Instructions

    10.10 Daily Sanitizing Instructions • Hang the fully assembled Apex 2 exosuit on a hanger and spray it well with a sanitizing solution, avoiding directly into the rope hole. • Disinfectant wipes may be used to wipe, clean, and sanitize any parts of the suit, including the switch, cable, clutch, clips, ladder locks, buckles, MOLLE-Ts, carabiners, and bands.
  • Page 30 However, these instructions may not be effective for removing all types of radioactive or chemical contamination such as oil, grease, or other types of chemicals that might come in contact with the Apex 2 exosuit. Contact the chemical manufacturer with any questions regarding cleaning of synthetic...

  • Page 31: Part 2: Advance Fitting, Care, And Safey Instructions

    Advanced Fitting, Care and Safety Instructions...

  • Page 32: Selection, Sizing, And Fitting

    How to Size and Fit Users with an Apex 2 Exosuit The following are needed to size and fit users with an Apex 2 exosuit: • User(s) • Apex 2 exosuit User Kit or Research Kit or a selection of Apex 2 components in various sizes. • Soft tape measure •...

  • Page 33: Apex 2 Exosuit Component Size Chart

    (See Chapter 10, Section 10.8 Sanitizing and Cleaning). 11.5 Apex 2 Exosuit Component Size Chart SHOULDER STRAPS Use height and chest circumference or t-shirt size UNDER 6’ TALL 6’ TALL AND UP Under 1.8 m tall...

  • Page 34: Taking A User's Measurements For Apex 2 Exosuit

    11.6 Taking a User’s Measurements for Apex 2 Exosuit Step 1: Users should stand with feet about shoulder width apart. Step 2: Measure and record the chest circumference two (2) inches (5cm) below the armpit. Ask the user to assist by holding the end of the tape measure in the center of their chest so you can wrap the tape measure around their body without making unnecessary physical contact.
  • Page 35 (See Chapter 9, Section 9.2 Putting On (Donning) and Using Your Apex 2 Exosuit). • Repeat these steps with all users who will be wearing an Apex 2 exosuit until all measurements are documented, all components and sizes are selected, Apex 2(s) assembled, and everyone has been fitted.

  • Page 36: Hazards And Protective Strategies

    12 Hazards and Protective Strategies 12.1 Unguarded Moving Parts Switch - potential pinch point • Protective Strategies: Keep fingers clear of the space between the upper and lower portion of the switch when pulling it down into On (engaged) mode. Keep fingers clear of the top of the switch when pinching the button to disengage the Apex •...

  • Page 37: Parts With Sharp Edges

    The Apex 2 and its components can snag on objects, workpieces, clothing, or body parts. Protective Strategies: • Always wear a properly fitted and adjusted Apex 2 exosuit. • Use Webbing Keepers to manage loose webbing. • Be mindful of proximity to body parts (e.g. fingers, hair, etc) or stationary or moving objects to avoid snags.

  • Page 38: Radiation Or Hazardous Substances Used In The Workplace

    • Remove the Apex 2 exosuit immediately if it comes into contact with hazardous matter or substances. • Ensure access to medical professionals in the event of an emergency. • PPE: Wear protective clothing or cover over the Apex 2 exosuit that allows the switch to be utilized. 12.7 Fire Interaction with Fire - Harm to the user and/or product damage.

  • Page 39: Contact With Hot And Cold Media

    • Test the Apex 2 exosuit with all required and optional PPE to ensure compatibility. • Avoid the use of the Apex 2 exosuit if it is not compatible with the workplace, environment, and equipment tools and/or required PPE.

  • Page 40: Allegic Reactions

    User Harm or Injury - Forces on the skin and body as a result of wearing the Apex 2 exosuit or an exosuit malfunction can cause harm to users. Protective Strategies: • Wear clothing under the Apex 2 exosuit so that no bare skin is in contact with any exosuit components.

  • Page 41: Misunderstanding Of Apex 2 Exosuit Technology

    • Adjust the Apex 2 exosuit properly to ensure the fit is not too tight which can cause rubbing on the skin or put stress on the body. • Complete full inspection before and after using the Apex 2 as described in Section 10: Inspection, Storage, Care, and Maintenance.

  • Page 42: Improper Cleaning, Sanitation, Disinfection And/Or Decontamination

    • Practice removing the Apex 2 exosuit during emergency and or evacuation drills. • If time allows, take off the Apex 2 exosuit in the event of an emergency or evacuation. • Switch the Apex 2 to OFF (disengaged) to move more freely if unable to re- move in the event of an emergency and or evacuation.

  • Page 43: Exosuit Malfunction

    • Inspect the Apex 2 exosuit for broken, cracked, defective or worn out parts before and after each use. • Instruct users to doff the Apex 2 exosuit and inspect it at the first sign of a potential problem. • Remove any Apex 2 exosuits with broken, cracked, defective or worn out parts for service.

  • Page 44: Contact With Salt Water, Chlorinated Water, Or Dirty Water

    While the Apex 2 can be used in generally wet environments, damage or premature wear and tear may occur when the Apex 2 exosuit is in contact with salt water, heavily chlorinated water, dirty, or otherwise contaminated water. Particular care should be used to prevent water from entering the clutch housing.

  • Page 45: Exposure Of Apex 2 Exosuits To Unsuitable Environment Conditions

    • Apex 2 exosuits are compatible with many common fall protection harnesses. • In the event that a fall protection harness must be worn with an Apex 2 exosuit, we generally recommend that fall protection harness should be worn over the Apex 2 exosuit.

  • Page 46: 14 Technical Information

    (pair) Belt 2 oz (< 0.1 kg) 3 oz (0.1 kg) Chest Strap 1 oz (< 0.1 kg) 1 oz (< 0.1 kg) Full Apex 2 exosuit 45 oz (1.3 kg) 61 oz (1.7 kg) COMPONENT LENGTH WIDTH HEIGHT Assistive Bands S1000 L1 12.5 in (32 cm)

  • Page 47: Product Noise Emissions

    (1) inch away from the external auditory meatus of the tester’s left ear. Hearing protection is not required unless otherwise required due to noise levels in the environment where the Apex 2 exosuit will be used. Refer to company, agency or institution policies for hearing protection.

  • Page 48: 15 Warranty

    (1) year from the original shipment date. HeroWear agrees, at its option during the warranty period, to repair any defect in material or workmanship; or to furnish a repaired, refurbished, or new product of equal value or function in exchange without charge except for a fee for shipping, handling, packing, return postage, and insurance, which will be paid by the customer.

  • Page 49: Times Limits May Not Apply

    The original purchaser of this product (or their authorized representative) must file all warranty claims with the authorized distributor, seller, or retailer of this product, who in turn is to contact the manufacturer (HeroWear, LLC) regarding any warranty return or replacement.

  • Page 50: 16 Appendix

    16 Appendix APEX EXOSUIT HISTORY Name Apex # DATE CATEGORY DESCRIPTION 2023-08-28 Used for the week of August 28 Example 2023-09-01 Inspection Unit inspected by supervisor Jane Example Patel 2023-09-04 Used for the week of September 4 Example 2023-09-06 Care Thigh sleeves cleaned in machine Example washer...

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