Vertical & Horizontal Lifelines
The two major types of lifeline systems, vertical and horizontal, can function independently or be integrated to provide two-dimensional fall protection. Lifeline systems are for emergency use only. They are never an excuse for not providing proper access or work platforms. For example, if a lifeline system is typically held by workers to support their balance, it is no longer being used as a lifeline; it is being used for work positioning.
Debris Netting
OSHA’s Subpart M requires guardrail and toeboard systems on all open-sided floors, platforms, runways, wall openings, holes, roofs, excavations, and machinery areas. Additionally, when equipment or materials are piled higher than the top edge of a standard toeboard, debris netting must be installed from the toprail to deck level to provide overhead protection for employees working below.
Initial Training
The need for training cannot be overemphasized! It is the first step toward increasing awareness and developing an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of available equipment. Initial training of the safety committee by a competent person is needed to ensure that the fall hazard analysis is properly performed. Then, supervisors or lead persons can be trained as competent persons, receiving instruction in fall protection principles, techniques and equipment performance.
Confined Space Rescue
Although some confined spaces are not appropriate for tripod use due to the size of their opening or to workplace geometry, lifelines and winches can be used, along with a variety of davits and brackets suited to the application, and appropriately designed into the workplace.
Harness Design and Fit
It is also important to note that harness designs should keep the back D-ring high on the back between the shoulder blades during use. Likewise, chest straps should remain high and taut and above the breast line. D-rings lower than midback and chest straps lower than the solar plexis could result in fall-out if a head first fall occurs.
Wire Rope Systems
Wire-rope systems should be considered where accidental collisions with crane-suspended loads are foreseeable. Bypass of intermediate supports, using the split-eyebolt concept, can be used in construction industry applications. Automatic roll-by or slide-by devices can be used in general industry applications.
The Problem with a Tie-Off Concept
The “tie-off” concept is the idea that fall arrest equipment is provided to a worker and the decision of where to anchor that equipment is left up to the worker to determine while moving about during the course of the work. This situation is frequently encountered during construction activities where the workplace is constantly changing and proper fall protection methods are not identified at each stage of the work. The tie-off concept is often implemented by employers who want to appear as if they are in compliance with worker safety regulations, and frequently leads to a false sense of security which results in an even more hazardous workplace.
OSHA Fall Protection Snaphook Gate Strength
OSHA follows ANZI Z359 and endorses the 3600 lb compression gate strength for snaphooks in both General Industry and Construction. For the details please see the OSHA letter to Dr. J. Nigel Ellis of March 19, 2013.
Who Needs Fall Protection?
Ultimately, the owner (as principal) is responsible for limiting or excluding fall hazards from his or her property. Both reputation and pocketbook are at stake. While the knowledgeable owner may employ architects and engineering consultants to advise about the construction of a building or structure, the owner must clearly require state-of-the-art, designed, safety features such as parapets, guardrails, and permanent anchorages whenever possible, both for contractor employees and for his or her own workers, and foreseeable access accommodation following construction. See “Introduction to Fall Protection, 4th Edition” page 74.
Fall-Rescue Planning
It is important to point out that the Fall Protection Code was not written for professional rescuers, such as fire, police and ambulance personnel. The standards were developed for PFAS users and manufacturers. While rope rescue by professional rescuers may be the last resort after other rescue means are considered and/or tried and rejected, Z359 standards are written for equipment users as planned rescuers.