Fall Protection Systems ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004A

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ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004Fall Protection SystemsAmerican National Standardfor Construction andDemolition Operations

AMERICAN SOCIETY OFSAFETY ENGINEERS

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

A SS E

The information and materials contained in this publication have been developed from sources believed to be reliable.

However, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) as secretariat of the ANSI accredited A10 Committee or individ-

ual committee members accept no legal responsibility for the correctness or completeness of this material or its application

to specific factual situations. By publication of this standard, ASSE or the A10 Committee does not ensure that adherence to

these recommendations will protect the safety or health of any persons, or preserve property.

ANSI

A10.32-2004

American National Standard for Construction and Demolition Operations

Fall Protection Systems

Secretariat

American Society of Safety Engineers1800 East Oakton StreetDes Plaines, Illinois 60018-2187(847) 699-2929 www.asse.org

Approved May 3, 2004

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that therequirements for due process, consensus, and other criteria for approval have been met bythe standards developer. Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSIBoard of Standards Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly andmaterially affected interests. Substantial agreement means much more than a simplemajority, but not necessarily unanimity. Consensus requires that all views and objectionsbe considered, and that a concerted effort be made toward their resolution. The use ofAmerican National Standards is completely voluntary; their existence does not in anyrespect preclude anyone, whether he/she has approved the standards or not, frommanufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures notconforming to the standards. The American National Standards Institute does notdevelop standards and will in no circumstance give an interpretation of any AmericanNational Standard. Moreover, no person shall have the right or authority to issue aninterpretation of an American National Standard in the name of the American NationalStandards Institute. Requests for interpretation should be addressed to the secretariat orsponsor whose name appears on the title page of this standard.

Caution Notice: This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at anytime. The procedures of the American National Standards Institute requires that action betaken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard. Purchasers of AmericanNational Standards may receive current information on all standards by calling or writingthe American National Standards Institute.

AmericanNationalStandard

American Society of Safety Engineers1800 East Oakton StreetDes Plaines, Illinois 60018-2187(847) 699-2929 www.asse.org

All rights reserved

No part of this publication my be reproduced in anyform, in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise,without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Printed in the United States of America

Published July 2004 by

Copyright 2004 by the American Society of Safety Engineers

Foreword (This Foreword is not a part of American National Standard A10.32-2004.)

This standard is one of a series of safety standards that have been formulated by the AccreditedStandards Committee on Safety in Construction and Demolition Operations, A10. It is expectedthat the standards in the A10 series will find a major application in industry, serving as a guide tocontractors, labor, and equipment manufacturers. For the convenience of users, a list of existingand proposed standards in the A10 series for Safety Requirements in Construction and DemolitionOperations follows.

A10.2 Safety, Health, and Environmental Training (under development)A10.3 A10.4 Personnel Hoists and Employee ElevatorsA10.5 A10.6 Demolition OperationsA10.7 A10.8 ScaffoldingA10.9 Concrete and Masonry Construction

A10.11 Personnel and Debris NetsA10.12 ExcavationA10.13 Steel ErectionA10.15 DredgingA10.16 Tunnels, Shafts, and CaissonsA10.17 Safe Operating Practices for Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) ConstructionA10.18 Temporary Floor Holes, Wall Openings, Stairways, and Other Unprotected EdgesA10.19 Pile Installation and Extraction Operations (under development)A10.20 Ceramic Tile, Terrazzo, and Marble WorkA10.21 Proper Cleaning and Disposal of Contaminated Work ClothingA10.22 Rope-Guided and Nonguided Workers HoistsA10.23 Back Injury Prevention Programs (under development)A10.24 Roofing (under development)

A10.27 Hot Mix Asphalt Facilities

A10.31 Digger-Derricks

A10.33 Safety and Health Program Requirements for Multi-Employer Projects

A10.37 Debris Nets

A10.42 Rigging Qualifications and Responsibilities in the Construction Industry

A10.25 Sanitation in Construction (under development)

A10.29 Aerial Lifts in Construction (under development)

A10.36 Railroad Construction Safety (under development)

A10.38 Basic Elements of a Program to Provide a Safe and Healthful Work Environment

A10.28 Work Platforms Suspended from Cranes or Derricks

A10.10 Temporary and Portable Space Heating Devices

Powder-Actuated Fastening Systems

Transportation, Storage, Handling, and Use of Commercial Explosives and Blasting Agents

A10.41 Equipment Operator and Supervisor Qualifications and Responsibilities (under development)

Material Hoists (under development)

A10.30 Workplace Security

A10.32 Fall Protection Systems for Construction Industry Users

A10.26 Emergency Procedures for Construction Sites (under development)

A10.34 Public Protection

A10.43 Confined Spaces in Construction (under development)

A10.35 High Pressure Hydro Blasting (under development)

A10.44 LockOut TagOut in Construction (under development)

A10.40 Ergonomics in Construction (under development)A10.39 Construction Safety and Health Audit Program

A10.45 Disaster Response Preparedness for Construction Workers (under development)A10.46 Hearing Loss Prevention (under development)A10.47 Highway Construction Safety (under development)A10.48 Communications Tower Erection (under development)

One purpose of these standards is to serve as guides to governmental authorities havingjurisdiction over subjects within the scope of the A10 Committee standards. If these standards areadopted for governmental use, the reference of other national codes or standards in individualvolumes may be changed to refer to the corresponding regulations.

Revisions: The A10 Committee welcomes proposals for revisions to this standard. Revisions aremade to the standard periodically (usually five years from the date of the standard) to incorporatechanges that appear necessary or desirable, as demonstrated by experience gained from theapplication of the standard. Proposals should be as specific as possible, citing the relevantparagraph number(s), the proposed wording, and the reason for the proposal. Pertinentdocumentation would enable the A10 Committee to process the changes in a more timely manner.

Interpretations: Upon a request in writing to the Secretariat, the A10 Committee will render aninterpretation of any requirement of the standard. The request for interpretation should be clear,citing the relevant paragraph number(s) and phrased as a request for a clarification of a specificrequirement. Oral interpretations are not provided.

No one but the A10 Committee (through the A10 Secretariat) is authorized to provide any

interpretation of this standard.

Approval: Neither the A10 Committee nor American National Standards Institute (ANSI)"approves," "certifies," "rates," or "endorses" any item, construction, proprietary device, oractivity.

Appendixes: Appendixes are included in most standards to provide the user with additionalinformation related to the subject of the standard. Appendices are not part of the approvedstandard.

Committee Meetings: The A10 Committee meets twice a year. Persons wishing to attend ameeting should contact the Secretariat for information.

Standard Approval: This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by theAmerican National Standards Committee on Safety in Construction and Demolition Operations,A10. Approval of the standard does not necessarily imply (nor is it required) that all Committeemembers voted for its approval. At the time this standard was published, the A10 Committee hadthe following members:

Organization Represented Name of Representative

Accident Prevention Corp. Frank BurgMichael Serpe

Aegis Corporation Judith Burkhart

Allegheny Power System David SzuchRichard Sanner

Alstrom Power, Integrated Services Robert RenneyTed P. Sharp

American Federation of Labor and Congress ofIndustrial Organizations Jim E. Lapping, MS, P.E., CSPAmerican Insurance Services Group Edward Campbell

American Society of Safety Engineers Allen Macenski, CSP, J.D.A. David Brayton

American Subcontractors Association Dante Pulignani, ASP

Asbestos Workers International Union Terry LynchJim E. Lapping, MS, P.E., CSP

Associated Builders and Contractors Michael W. Hayslip, P.E.Anita Drummond

Associated General Contractors of America, The James Brown

Barton-Malow Company John GleichmanBlack & Veatch Richard F. King, CSP

Paul Weida, CSPCenter to Protect Workers Rights, The

Chicago Bridge & Iron Company James RhudyWallace K. Melvin

Clark Construction Group Jack DuleyCole-Miller Safety Consulting, Inc. Barry Cole

Steve MillerPhilip L. Colleran Philip L. Colleran, CSPConstruction Users Roundtable, The Ron G. Prichard, Ph.D., P.E.ECI Safety Services Co. Anthony Merisola

Patrick BrennanEdison Electric Institute R. Lee Reed, Jr.

Charles KellyE. I. duPont de Nemours & Company

Elevator Industry Preservation Fund John QuackenbushGilbane Building Co. John P. ODonovan

Carol MurklandRichard D. Hislop Richard HislopInstitute of Makers of Explosives Lon D. Santis

J. Christopher RonayInternational Association of Bridge, Structural,Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Frank Migliaccio, Jr.International Brotherhood of Boilermakers David Haggerty

Bridget Conner

Richard King, ChairmanJames Tomaseski, Vice ChairmanTimothy R. Fisher, Secretary CSP, ARM, CPEAPatrick J. Arkins, Assistant Secretary

James G. Borchardt, CSP, CPE

Luke McFadden

Ron Prichard, Ph.D., P.E.

Pete StaffordMike McCann

Robert KrzywickiJane Schindewolf

Matthew J. Burkart, PE

JShawJames RhudyWallace K. Melvin

JShawJack Duley

JShawRichard F. King, CSPPaul Weida, CSP

JShawBlack & Veatch

JShawRobert Krzywicki

International Union of Painters & Allied Trades Jim WilliamsJack L. Mickle & Associates Jack Mickle, Ph.D.Laborers International Union of North America Scott Schneider

George MacalusoMaryland Occupational Safety & Health Roy E. Blades

Mischelle VanreuselMechanical Contractors Association of America Peter Chaney

Dennis LangleyNational Association of Home Builders Robert Matuga

George MiddletonNational Association of Railroad SafetyConsultants & Investigators Lewis Barbe, P.E., CSP, CRSPNational Roofing Contractors Association Tom Shanahan

Harry DietzC.E. Jackson, Jr., P.E.E. Ross Curtis, P.E., NSPE

NEA The Association of Union Constructors William Treharne, P.E.

Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons,International Association Gerald RyanDaniel M. Paine

Power Consultants, Incorporated S. Jecker

Professional Safety Consultants, Inc.

Ryland Group, Inc., The Bob Masterson, CSPSafety and Quality Plus Ron LattanzioScaffolding, Shoring & Forming Institute

Sheet Metal Workers International Association Gary BatykeferCharles Austin

Sigma Associates, Ltd. A. J. Scardino, Jr.Daniel Paine

SINCO / SALA David DennyBrian Clarke

SPA, Incorporated Stanley D. PulzJessica Pulz

TIC-The Industrial Company Stephen GaleBrett Richardson

Turner Construction Company Dennis FalveyUnited Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters William RhotenUnited Brotherhood of Carpenters andJoiners of America United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers andAllied Workers Robert J. Krul

John BarnhardU.S. Department of the Army Corps of Engineers Samuel Testerman

Brian Becker

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers James TomaseskiJerry Westerholm

International Safety Equipment Association Janice Bradley, CSPCristine Fargo

International Union of Operating Engineers Emmett RussellSteve Brown

National Society of Professional Engineers

Daniel M. Paine

Wayne Rice

Barbara Paine

Vacant

U.S. Department of Energy Patrick FinnLeslie Bermudez

Property Casualty Insurers Association of America John Neil

David Goldsmith

Jerry Meadors

Timothy Palmer, Ph.D., P.E.

Chris Johnson

JShawStephen GaleBrett Richardson

burkHighlight

West Virginia University - Extension Service Mark Fullen

Ingo ZeiseZBD Constructors (Zurn Industries) Greg Thompson

Jeffrey D. Meddin, CSP, CHCM

Subgroup A10.32 had the following members:

John ODonovan (Chairman)Damiel Paine (Liaison)Harry AnuskiewiczH. Andrew Batty, Jr.Michael BellBarbara BielaskiJanice BradleyMatthew BurkartPhilip ClemmonsJ. Nigel EllisC.E. Jackson, Jr.Charles MarescaRichard MorelleCraig NeustaterRon Prichard, Ph.D., P.E.Tom Shanahan

U.S. Department of Labor OSHA Camille VillanovaH. Berrien Zettler

Z Con Safety Consultants Brandon Takacs

Contents SECTION .................................................................................................... PAGE

1. General.......................................................................................................91.1 Scope .................................................................................................91.2 Purpose...............................................................................................91.3 Application..........................................................................................91.4 Resolutions .........................................................................................9

2. Definitions................................................................................................. 103. General Requirements .................................................................................. 15

4.2 Fall Arrest .......................................................................................... 17

6.

7.

4. Performance Requirements ............................................................................ 16

6

4.1 Anchorage .......................................................................................... 16

4.3 Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRL) .............................................................. 174.4 Rope Grab.......................................................................................... 17

5. Marking Requirements ................................................................................. 205.1 General Marking Requirements............................................................... 20

Employer Requirements ............................................................................... 226.1 Training............................................................................................. 22

6.3 Inspection........................................................................................... 23

7.1 Harness, Belt and Lanyard Performance Test Procedures.............................. 24

6.2 Rescue............................................................................................... 22

7.2 Lifeline Performance Test Procedures.......................................................297.3 Rope Grab Performance Test Procedures................................................... 307.4 Hardware Test Procedures...................................................................... 31

8. Appendix A..............................................................................................33Appendix B ..............................................................................................34

Test Requirements ...................................................................................... 24

Appendix C..............................................................................................35

4.5 Snaphooks and Carabiners ..................................................................... 184.6 Lanyards ............................................................................................19

5.2 Special Marking Requirements for Individual Components.......................... 20

6.8 Fall Restraint Systems.......................................................................... 24

6.5 Competent Person............................................................................. 246.4 Compatibility.....................................................................................24

6.6 Hazard Protection.............................................................................. 246.7 Job Task ........................................................................................... 24

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDANSI A10.32 STANDARD FOR PERSONAL FALL PROTECTION

USED INCONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION OPERATIONS

1. GENERAL

1.1 Scope. This standard establishesperformance criteria for personal fall protectionequipment and systems in construction anddemolition and provides guidelines,recommendations for their use and inspection. Itincludes, but is not limited to; fall arrest, restraint,positioning, climbing, descending, rescue, escapeand training activities. Exceptions: This standarddoes not include linemans body belts, pole straps,window washers belts, chest/waist harnesses, andsports equipment.

E1.1 The personal fall protection equipmentselected should match the particular worksituation. A qualified or Competent Personshould select the appropriate personal fall arrest,restraint or positioning equipment based on thispersons professional evaluation of the work site,considering work conditions and the nature of thework performed. Ladder climbing protectiondevices are covered in ANSI A14.3.

1.2 Purpose. To provide minimum guidelines tousers and manufacturers of personal fall protectionequipment.

1.3 Application. This standard applies tomanufacturers and users of personal fall protectionequipment; to those personnel responsible for theselection, procurement, inspection, use, care andmaintenance of the equipment; and to thoseresponsible for training and supervision of theusers.

1.4 Resolutions. In order to provide forsuperior protection to the user, this standardpermits:

1.4.1 Only full body harnesses shall be used forfall arrest. The fall arrest attachment point of thebody harness shall be at the center of the usersback near shoulder level.

E1.3 This standard applies to all users of fallprotection equipment ranging in size fromindividuals to multiple employee companies.

1.4.2 Maximum arresting force imposed on theusers body shall not exceed 1,000 lb.

E1.4.2 The maximum arresting force can bereduced by limiting the free fall distance, or usinga deceleration device (self-retracting lanyard,shock absorber, or similar component of energy-absorbing equipment as an integral part of the fallprotection system).

1.4.3 All equipment used in a fall protectionsystem shall be compatible to limit force levels,maintain system strength, and prevent accidentaldisengagement.

E1.4.3 Compatible devices are suitably sized andconfigured to properly operate together as acomponent part of a fall protection system.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawOnly full body harnesses shall be used forfall arrest. The fall arrest attachment point of thebody harness shall be at the center of the usersback near shoulder level.

JShaw1.4.2 Maximum arresting force imposed on the

JShawusers body shall not exceed 1,000 lb.

1.4.4 The service life of fall protectionequipment manufactured of synthetic fiber shallbe 5 years unless otherwise specified by themanufacturer.

E1.4.4 There is no guarantee that 5 years is theactual service life as it is dependent on diversefactors which must be accounted for.

1.4.5 Equipment serviced by the Manufactureror their authorized representative shall be capableof meeting all performance requirements of thisstandard.

2. DEFINITIONS

2.1 Accidental Disengagement. A processwhereby a connector unintentionally comes freefrom the component to which it is attached. burst out, in the case of locking snap-hooks.

2.2 Anchorage. A secure point of attachmentfor lifeline, lanyards or deceleration devices.

2.3 Anchorage Connector. A device used forattaching to a fall arrest anchorage where it isnot possible to make a direct connection with asnap hook or carabineer.

E2.3 Examples of an anchorage connector are aweb sling and a boom strap. A lanyard connectedback onto itself is NOT a correct anchorageconnector.

2.4 Arresting Force. The force produced bythe fall arrest system on the human body whenarresting a fall.

A support which is used for positioning, restraintor ladder climbing only.

E2.5 Studies have concluded that prolongedsuspension in a body belt could complicate

possible fall distance in climbing and positioning

2.6 Body Harness, Full. A design of strapswhich contains the torso and is secured about theuser in a manner to distribute the arresting forcesover the torso and thighs with a means forattaching it to other components of a personalfall arrest system. Attachments for positioning,restraint, retrieval, or rappelling may be included.

2.7 Buckle. A connector for holding the bodybelt or body harness closed around the user.

2.8 Capacity. The combined weight for whichthe component is designed to be used.

E2.8 The combined weight includes the bodyweight, clothing, tools and other objects carriedby the user.

2.5 Body Belt (Safety Belt or Waist Belt).

arrest systems.

in the case of non-locking snap-hooks, and

may be used with restraint systems as well as fall

E2.1 Various incidents are known as roll out,

This includes the term Anchor point andE2.2

activities to minimize forces on the user permittinguse of body belts. (Refer to ANSI A10.14-1991

groups and equipment design have reduced the

for background information. Note: This standard

injuries or cause death. Regulation by standards

was administratively withdrawn by ANSI.)

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawmanufacturer.

JShawbe 5 years unless otherwise specified by the

JShawequipment manufactured of synthetic fiber shall

JShaw1.4.4 The service life of fall protectionequipment manufactured of synthetic fiber shallbe 5 years unless otherwise specified by theE1.4.4 There is no guarantee that 5 years is theactual service life as it is dependent on diversefactors which must be accounted

JShawmanufacturer.for.

2.9 Carabiner. A connector generallycomprised of a trapezoidal or oval-shaped bodywith a normally closed gate or similararrangement which may be opened to receive anobject and, when released, automatically closes toretain the object. The three types of carabinersare: Carabiner locking-type (Required by thisstandard); Carabiner non-locking type. (Notpermitted as an integral part of the lanyardassembly); Carabiner manual locking type. (Notpermitted by this standard).

2.10 Clearance Distance. The measureddistance by which one object is separated fromanother.

E2.9 Carabiners usually do not include a captiveeye, such as a snap hook, and are primarily usedto connect two separate objects where a snaphook will not suffice.

2.11 Climbing System. A combination ofequipment that permits the user to use bothhands freely while being tied off to a decelerationdevice while climbing fixed structures.

2.12 Competent Person. One who is capableof identifying existing and predictable hazards inthe surroundings or working conditions which areunsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous toemployees, and who has authorization to takeprompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

2.13 Component. A part of a personal fallprotection system.

2.14 Connector. A device which is used tocouple (connect) parts of a fall protectionsystem together.

E2.14 It may be an independent component ofthe system (such as a carabiner), or an integral

or a snap-hook spliced or sewn to a lanyard orself-retracting lanyard).

2.15 Deceleration Device. Any mechanismwhich serves to dissipate energy during a fall.

E2.15 Examples of deceleration devices are: rip-stitch, friction, rope-grab, tearing and deforminglanyards.

2.16 Deceleration Distance. The verticaldistance a falling person travels, excluding lifelineelongation, before stopping, from the point atwhich the deceleration device engages.

2.17 Descent Control Device. An automaticor manually controlled lowering device for escapeor rescue. May be used as part of a single pointsuspended scaffold in conjunction with anindependent lifeline fall arrest system.

of the standard at this time.Definition included for clarity not a partE2.17

E2.16 This is measured as the distance between the

component or part of the system (such as buckleor D-ring sewn into a body belt or body harness,

just prior to activation of the deceleration deviceduring a fall, and the location of that attachment

location of a users body harness attachment point

point after the user comes to a full stop.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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2.18 Fall Arrest. The act of stopping a freefall of more than 2 feet by the use of PersonalFall Protection Equipment.

2.19 Fall Factor. The distance (measured infeet or meters) of a free fall divided by thelanyard (measured in feet or meters) length fromthe harness connection to the anchorage tie off.

E2.19 Fall Factor is important in determiningstrength of materials used in fall arrest equipmentas well as the forces generated by a user.

2.20 Fall Protection. Equipment and methodsto guard against the injurious consequences of afall.

2.21 Force Factor. The ratio of the peakarresting force recorded using a rigid weight inlaboratory testing to that on a human bodyhaving the same weight, both falling underidentical conditions. For the purposes of thisstandard, a registered peak force shall be dividedby 1.4 to allow for body compression.

2.22 Free Fall. The act of falling verticallybefore the personal arrest system activates tostop the fall.

2.23 Free-Fall Distance. The vertical distancea user falls before the fall arresting system beginsto stop the fall. This includes any rope grab slideor self-retracting lifeline/lanyard extensionbefore they activate. This excludes elongation oflifelines, lanyards and activation distance ofshock absorbers.

E2.20 Equipment and methods to both guardagainst the injurious consequences of a fall and toprevent a fall where possible.

E2.21 This factor is necessary to properly relatetest forces experienced by humans during fallarrest.

2.24 Hardware. Rigid connectors used toattach components of a fall protection system.

a Competent or Qualified Person. 2.26 Integral. Not removable from thecomponent, system or sub-system withoutmutilating any element or without use of aspecial tool.

2.27 Lanyard. A flexible line which connectsat one end to a full body harness, and at the otherend to an anchorage, deceleration device orlifeline for fall arrest, positioning or restraintpurposes.

2.28 Lifeline. A flexible line that has aconnector at one end, if used in a verticalposition, and each end if used in a horizontalposition.

2.25 Formal Inspection. The examination by

E2.24 Examples: snap-hooks, D rings,buckles, carabiners, adjusters, O rings, etc.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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2.29 Manufacturer. Any entity thatmanufactures or assembles a fall arrest system,bearing its identification.

E2.29 Manufacturers typically buy componentssuch as hardware and webbing, and assemble themaccording to their design.

2.30 Pendulum (Swing) Fall. A bodysuspended from a fixed point so as to swing freelyto and from under the action of gravity.

2.31 Personal Fall Arrest System. Anycombination of an anchorage, connectors, bodyharness, lanyard, deceleration device or lifelineused to arrest a fall from any working level.

2.32 Positioning Device System. Acombination of equipment that permits the userto use both hands freely while being supported onan elevated vertical surface.

E2.32 Fully body harnesses with built-in ormodular positioning belts are acceptable as well asbody belts constructed for this purpose. Whenusing the body belt for positioning, the free falldistance must be limited to 2 feet or less. Note:Waist belts do not comply with this standard forfall arrest.

2.33 Qualified Person. One who, bypossession of a recognized degree, certificate, orprofessional standing, or who be extensiveknowledge, training, and experience, hassuccessfully demonstrated his ability to solve orresolve problems relating to the subject matter,the work or the project.

2.34 Restraint (Tether) System. Acombination of equipment to prevent a user fromreaching a point where a fall could occur from anelevated work surface.

E2.34 Restraint systems should be used onlywhere there is no possibility of falling at anyangle of restraint (i.e., lifelines that are used onroofs to prevent a user from falling over theedge. This is for a free fall distance of zero feet.)

2.35 Rope Grab. A device which travels on alifeline, engages the lifeline and locks to arrestthe fall of a user.

2.36 Safety Factor. A ratio of the design loadand the ultimate strength of the material.

2.37 Self-Retracting Lifeline/Lanyard(SRL). A device which contains a drum-woundline which may be slowly extracted from orretracted onto the drum under slight tensionduring normal user movement, and which afteronset of a fall, automatically locks the drum andarrests the fall. 2.38 Service Life. The life of the productbeginning from the date of first use.

E2.35 A Rope Grab that is used on a horizontallifeline is subject to damage. Contact themanufacturer for specific guidelines for use

E2.37 May include a raising/lowering function.

E2.38 In the absence of documentation of dateof first use, the date of manufacturer will beconsidered the start of service life.

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JShaw2.34 Restraint (Tether) System. Acombination of equipment to prevent a user fromreaching a point where a fall could occur from anelevated work surface.E2.34 Restraint systems should be used onlywhere there is no possibility of falling at anyangle of restraint (i.e., lifelines that are used onroofs to prevent a user from falling over theedge. This is for a free fall distance of zero feet.)

JShawThis is for a free fall distance of zero feet.)

2.39 Shall. The word shall is to beunderstood as mandatory.

2.40 Shock Absorber. A component of a fallarrest system that is used to dissipate and limitthe arrest forces on a human body during freefall.

2.41 Should. The word should is to beunderstood as advisory.

2.42 Snap-Hook. A connector consisting of ahook-shaped body with a normally closed gate orsimilar arrangement which may be opened topermit the hook to receive an object and, whenreleased, automatically closes to retain theobject.

type (required by this standard) with a self-closing, self-locking gate which remains closedand locked until intentionally opened by the userfor connection or disconnection.

manual-locking type (not permitted by thisstandard) with a self-closing gate which remainsclosed but not locked (unless purposely locked bythe user) until intentionally opened by the userfor connection or disconnection.

2.43 System. Any combination of fall arrestequipment that prevents personal injury.

E2.42.1 This definition reflects what iscommonly called a self-locking or double-lockingsnap-hook. A captive eye is an integral part of asnap hook, but is independent of the hook andgate portion.

E2.43 Examples are: A full body harness,anchorage and lanyard comprise a system as doesa full body harness, lanyard, rope grab and lifelineand anchorage.

2.44 Tie Off. When a user wearing personal fallprotection equipment connects directly orindirectly to an anchorage. The term also meansthe condition of a user being connected to ananchorage.

E2.44 Tie Off is slang for connection to a secureanchorage.

2.45 Total Fall Distance. The maximumvertical distance between a users full bodyharness attachment point before and after thefall is arrested, including free fall distance anddeceleration distance plus any elongation of thesystem or anchorage.

E2.45 Elongation is a function of the materialsused (i.e., nylon webbing). Request furtherinformation from the manufacturer of yourequipment.

2.46 Travel Restricting. Restricting a user in away to limit access to, or contact with, a free fallhazard.

2.42.1 Snap-Hook, Self-Locking. The locking

2.42.2 Snap-Hook, Manual-Locking. The

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawSnap-Hook, Self-Locking.

JShawThis definition reflects what is

JShawselfclosing,commonly called

JShawa self-locking or double-locking

JShawsnap-hook.

JShawself-locking gate which remains closed

JShawand locked until intentionally opened by the user

JShawfor connection or disconnection.

2.47 User. The individual wearing or utilizingthe fall protection equipment and/or system.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 Selection of fall protection equipment shallbe made by a Competent Person.

3.2 All fall protection equipment should bepurchased new and unused.

E2.47 Includes employers.

E3.1 Where components of differentmanufacturers are combined into a system, aQualified Person should approve the system.

E3.2 Used equipment may have been subjected todegradation or force factors that exceedpermissible limits which could lead to unexpectedfailure.

3.4 Fall protection equipment shall be removedfrom service upon evidence of defects, damage ordeterioration; once it has been subjected toimpact loading; or upon expiration of themanufacturers specified service limits, whichevercomes first.

3.5 When vertical lifelines are used, they shall belimited to one user per lifeline.

3.6 Horizontal lifelines shall be designed,installed, and used, under the supervision of aQualified Person, as part of a complete personalfall arrest system, which maintains a safetyfactor of at least two.

3.7 Lanyards and lifelines shall be used in amanner to minimize cuts, abrasion anddeterioration.

E3.7 The line should be sleeved or otherwiseprotected to minimize cuts, abrasion,deterioration or burning. Anchorage connectorsshould be used to avoid damage from sharp bendsin the line or abrasive wear.

3.7.1 Lanyards shall not be connected back uponthemselves unless authorized by the equipmentmanufacturer. 3.7.2 Lanyards shall not be connected to self-retracting lanyards

3.7.3 Knots are not allowed in lifelines, lanyardsor other direct-impact components.

3.8 Harnesses, lanyards, belts, lifelines and otherload-bearing devices shall not be made of naturalfibers (including, but not limited to, cotton,manila and leather.)

E3.7.1 An anchorage connector is to be used.Improper use can cause failure of the snap-hookgate or other failure.

E3.7.2 Manufacturers may specify a D-ringextension to the harness to ease connection tothe D-ring.

E3.7.3 Except as a stop to prevent a devicefrom accidentally running off the end of alifeline, or to secure the free end of a lifeline atground level.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawE3.1 Where components of different

JShawmanufacturers are combined into a system, aQualified Person should approve the system.

JShawWhere components of different

JShawmanufacturers are combined into a system, aQualified Person should approve the system.

JShaw3.6 Horizontal lifelines shall be designed,installed, and used, under the supervision of aQualified Person, as part of a complete personalfall arrest system, which maintains a safetyfactor of at least two.

JShaw3.6 Horizontal lifelines shall be designed,installed, and used, under the supervision of aQualified Person, as part of a complete personalfall arrest system, which maintains a safetyfactor of at least two.

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

3.9 Connectors shall be corrosion resistant, andall surfaces and edges shall be smooth to preventdamage to interfacing parts of the system.

3.10 Snap-hooks and carabiners shall be self-closing and self-locking and shall be capable ofbeing opened to release the load only by at leasttwo consecutive deliberate actions.

3.10.1 Other design of snap-hooks andcarabiners shall be tested to follow the intent ofthe requirements of this standard.

3.11 The component parts of a restraint systemincluding anchorages shall be designed andmanufactured to meet the strength requirementsof fall arrest equipment as specified in thisstandard.

3.11.1 Restraint systems shall be designed by aQualified Person.

3.11.2 Restraint systems shall be installed andused under the supervision of a CompetentPerson.

3.11.3 The restraint system shall eliminatepossibility of a free fall.

3.12 Where equipment or fittings may come incontact with energized electrical power sources,either the equipment or fitting shall havesufficient dielectric resistance or be shielded fromcontact with the electrical power source or theelectrical power source shall be renderedinoperative.

4. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

4.1 Anchorage. Anchorage shall be capable ofsupporting at least 5,000 lbs. per user attached,or shall be designed, installed and used under thesupervision of a Qualified Person as part of acomplete system which maintains a safety factorof at least two.

4.1.1 An anchor connector shall be used if ananchorage does not have a connection pointcompatible with a carabiner or snap hook.

E3.10.1 Future developments may cause changeto be made to the method of opening.

E3.11.3 Restraint systems may be subject topoor design, improper installation or misuse andcreate a free fall hazard which must beeliminated.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShaw3.10 Snap-hooks and carabiners shall be selfclosingand self-locking and shall be capable ofbeing opened to release the load only by at leasttwo consecutive deliberate actions.

JShawWhere equipment or fittings may come incontact with energized electrical power sources,either the equipment or fitting shall havesufficient dielectric resistance or be shielded fromcontact with the electrical power source or theelectrical power source shall be renderedinoperative.

JShawor shall be designed, installed and used under thesupervision of a Qualified Person as part of acomplete system which maintains a safety factorof at least two.

JShawsupervision of a Qualified Person as part of acomplete system which maintains a safety factorof at least two.

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

4.2 Fall Arrest.

4.2.1 Personal fall arrest systems, when stoppinga fall, shall be rigged such that an employee canneither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8m), norcontact any lower level or obstruction.

4.2.2 Maximum deceleration distance shall be3.5 feet.

E4.2.2 This only is applicable to a maximum six(6) foot free fall from a fixed anchorage and doesnot apply to a free fall when attached to a

4.2.3 The angle of rest for a user after a fallshall not be greater than 30 degrees to thevertical.

4.3 Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRL).

4.3.1 Self-Retracting lanyards shallautomatically limit free fall distance to two (2)feet (0.61m) or less and shall be capable ofsustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000pounds (13.3kn) applied to the device with thelanyard in the fully extended position.

4.4 Rope Grab.

4.4.1 For the purpose of this standard, RopeGrabs are classified as follows: Type 1.: designedto be used on a vertical lifeline. Type 2.: designedto be used on a horizontal lifeline. Type 3.:designed to be used on a lifeline of anyorientation.

4.4.2 Connectors used with Rope Grabs (whetherintegral, separate components or elements ofseparate components) shall meet therequirements of this standard. Integral rings orsimilar openings designed to accept connectorsshall be designed to minimize potential rollout ofmating connector.

4.4.3 Rope Grabs shall be automatic in theirlocking (fall stopping) function. The possibilityof overriding the self-locking feature of the SRLshall be guarded against. Rope Grabs which aredesigned to work on vertical lifelines and whichrely solely on the lever principle for locking,shall be designed such that locking will becomeeffective before the lever becomes perpendicular

E4.4.2 An effort should be made to encouragecompatible connector couplings

E4.4.3 The intent of guarding against overridingof the self-locking feature of the Rope Grabduring use is to reduce the possibility that thedevice may be deactivated if reflexively grabbedor held during onset of a fall. Knots are notpredictable or testable over the given lifetime ofa lifeline.

Person.

E4.2.3 Please see Appendix A, which is Figure 20

horizontal lifeline or when the personal fall

from the Z359.1-1992 (R1999) American NationalStandard, Safety Requirement for Personal Fall

arrest system has been designed by a Qualified

Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawE4.2.2

JShawThis only is applicable to a maximum six

JShaw(6) foot free fall from a fixed anchorage and doesnot apply to a free fall when attached to aPerson.horizontal lifeline or when the personal fallarrest system has been designed by a Qualified

JShawshall be rigged such that an employee canneither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8m), norcontact any lower level or obstruction.

JShawThe angle of rest for a user after a fallshall not be greaterE4.2.3 Please see Appendix A, which is Figure 20

JShawfrom the Z359.1-1992 (R1999)

JShawthan 30 degrees to the

JShawvertical.

JShawagainst.

JShawshall be guarded

JShawof overriding the self-locking feature of the SRL

JShawlocking (fall stopping) function. The possibility

JShawRope Grabs shall be automatic in their

JShawshall be guarded against.

JShawof overriding the self-locking feature of the SRL

JShawlocking (fall stopping) function. The possibility

JShawRope Grabs shall be automatic in their

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

to the lifeline. Systems incorporating knottype fall arresters are excluded from thisstandard.

4.4.4 Type 1 Rope Grabs that are not bi-directional (could arrest a fall or lock in bothdirections of travel) and which could be installedupside down on the lifeline shall be clearlymarked showing proper orientation of use.

4.4.5 Type 1 Rope Grabs shall be incapable ofcreeping down the lifeline during work operationsat a given elevation.

4.4.6 Corrosion protection shall be afforded toall elements (parts) of the Rope Grab to a degreedeemed necessary by a Qualified Person(s)directly responsible for the design of the device.Protection shall at a minimum allow the deviceto operate as intended and show no sign ofcorrosion which if left unchecked could result incorrosion-related failure of the device after beingsalt spray (fog) tested for 48 hours in accordancewith ASTM B117-90. Working parts critical tothe operation of the device shall be fully exposedduring salt spray even if disassembly of the deviceis required to do so.

4.4.7 Rope Grabs shall have an ultimate strengthof not less than 3,600 pounds (16kN)

4.5 Snaphooks and Carabiners.

4.5.1 Corrosion. All hardware shall becorrosion resistant, prohibiting any loss offunctionality or presence of red rust when testedin accordance with Section 7.4.1. The presenceof white scale is acceptable.

4.5.2 Test Loads.

4.5.2.1 Rings. (D rings, O rings and oval rings)shall be capable of withstanding a 5,000 poundtensile load without breaking when tested inaccordance with Section 7.4.2.1.

4.5.2.2 Snaphooks and carabiners shall becapable of withstanding a 5,000 pound tensileload without breaking or distortion sufficient torelease the gate when tested in accordance withSection 7.4.2.2.

E4.4.4 A bi-directional rope grab is one whichwill lock in both directions of travel on a lifeline.

E4.4.6 Devices intended for use in specificenvironments may require special attention tocorrosion protection. Care must be used whencombining dissimilar metals to avoid adversegalvanic couples.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShawshall

JShaw3,600

JShawshall

4.5.3 Gate Load for Snaphooks andCarabiners. The snaphook or carabiner shallbe capable of withstanding a minimum load of220 pounds without the gate separating from thenose of the snaphook or carabiner body by morethan 0.125 inch when tested in accordance withSection 7.4.3.1. The gate of the snaphook orcarabiner shall be capable of withstanding aminimum side load of 350 pounds when tested inaccordance with Section 7.4.3.2. Failure shall bedefined as permanent deformation of the gatemore than 0.125 inch, or separation of the gatefrom the body of the snaphook or carabiner bodyby more than 0.125 inch.

4.5.4 Adjusters and Buckles. Buckles, ovalrings used as adjusters and other adjusters shall becapable of withstanding a minimum tensile loadof 4,000 pounds without breaking when tested inaccordance with Section 7.4.4.

4.5.5 Proof Loading Test Requirements. Allsnaphooks, carabiners and D rings shall be 100%proof tested to a 3,600 pound (16kN) tensileload without cracking, breaking or takingpermanent deformation when tested inaccordance with Section 7.4.5

4.6 Lanyards.

4.6.1 Lanyard Construction.

4.6.1.1 The lanyard shall be made from suitablematerials capable of meeting the performancerequirements of Section 7.1.1.3.1. The lanyardmay be permanently attached to a shock-absorbing component that complies with thisstandard.

4.6.1.2 Rope and webbing used in theconstruction of lanyards shall be made of virginsynthetic material having strength, aging,abrasion resistance and heat resistancecharacteristics equivalent or superior topolyamides. 4.6.1.3 Wire rope used in the construction oflanyards shall be constructed in accordance withFederal Specification RR-W-410D. 4.6.1.4 Chain used in the construction oflanyards shall be manufactured in accordance withthe requirements for grade 80 set forth in ASTME8-89b.

E4.6.1.4 Chain is generally used for workpositioning, i.e., re-bar and concrete form work.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShawwithstanding a minimum load of220 pounds without the gate separating from thenose of the snaphook or carabiner body by morethan 0.125 inch when tested in accordance withSection 7.4.3.1. The gate of the snaphook orcarabiner shall be capable of withstanding aminimum side load of 350 pounds when tested inaccordance with Section 7.4.3.2. Failure shall bedefined as permanent deformation of the gatemore than 0.125 inch, or separation of the gatefrom the body of the snaphook or carabiner bodyby more than 0.125 inch.

JShawthe requirements for grade 80 set forth in ASTME8-89b.

JShawlanyards shall be manufactured in accordance with

JShaw4.6.1.4 Chain used in the construction of

5. MARKING REQUIREMENTS

5.1 General Marking Requirements.

5.1.1 Markings shall be permanent, legible andwritten in English.

E5.1.1 Other languages may be included atmanufacturers option. Labels may be fabric,leather, paper, metallic, or any other materialthat is suitable. Imprints and stamps are alsoacceptable.

5.1.2 Except for connectors, all equipment shallbe marked with the following information:

5.1.2.1 DO NOT REMOVE THIS LABEL.

E5.1.2 Examples: Full body harnesses, lanyards,rope grabs, retractable lifelines, anchorconnectors, etc. UL 969 should be referred tofor reference.

5.1.2.2 Part Number and/or model designation.

5.1.2.3 Month and year of manufacture.

5.1.2.4 Manufacturers name or identifying logoor mark.

5.1.2.5 Maximum user weight including tools asdetermined in Section 7.

5.1.2.6 Standard number (A10.32) - (year).

5.1.2.7 Primary web and rope fiber material(s).

5.1.2.8 Warning to remove from service ifsubject to a fall arrest.

5.1.2.9 Warning to read instructions beforeusing.

5.1.2.10 Expiration Date.

E5.1.2.7 Example: web or rope - nylon orpolyester.

inspection dates and inspectors initials.

dates and initials of inspector, signifying two (2)formal inspections per year over five (5) years

E5.1.3.1 An additional paper record should bemaintained as backup records.

5.2.1 Connectors. Manufacturersidentification.

E5.2.1 Name or logo with year of manufactureand traceability designation.

5.1.3 Provision shall be made to record formal

5.1.3.1 Ten (10) spaces shall be provided for

5.2 Special Marking Requirements for Individual Components.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShaw5.1.2.1 DO NOT REMOVE THIS LABEL.

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5.2.1.1 Snap-hooks and carabiners shall bemarked PT to indicate they have beensuccessfully proof tested as described in Section4.5.5. The year of manufacture shall also bemarked on the snap-hook and carabiner andother markings sufficient to provide traceability.

5.2.2 Shock absorbers.

5.2.2.1 Customized absorbers for increasedweight (over 310 lb.), fall distance (over 6 feet),or horizontal lifeline applications shall be labeledaccordingly.

5.2.3 Lanyards.

5.2.3.1 Maximum distance of free fall.

5.2.3.2 Warnings, if not suitable for fall arrest.

5.2.4 Rope grabs.

5.2.4.1 Arrow indicating the direction of travelon a lifeline.

5.2.4.2 Proper size and type of lifeline to use.

5.2.4.3 Maximum length of lanyard.

5.2.5 Self-retracting lanyards.

5.2.5.1 Diameter of rope or wire rope and widthand thickness of webbing used in the lanyard.

5.2.5.2 The fiber of other materials used in thelanyard construction.

5.2.5.3 The lanyard length.

5.2.5.4 Maximum arrest force.

5.2.5.5 Proper installation means.

5.2.5.6 The need for inspection at periodicintervals and at least monthly.

5.2.5.7 Testing of the device for locking beforeeach use.

5.2.5.8 Arrest distance.

5.2.6 Waist belts (body belts). Shall not beused for fall arrest.

E5.2.6 May be used for positioning and climbingonly.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShaw5.2.1.1 Snap-hooks and carabiners shall bemarked PT to indicate they have beensuccessfully proof tested as described in Section4.5.5. The year of manufacture shall also bemarked on the snap-hook and carabiner andother markings sufficient to provide traceability.

JShawSnap-hooks and carabiners shall bemarked PT to indicate they have beensuccessfully proof tested as described in Section4.5.5.

JShawThe year of manufacture shall also bemarked on the snap-hook and carabiner andother markings sufficient to provide traceability.

JShaw5.2.2.1 Customized absorbers for increasedweight (over 310 lb.), fall distance (over 6 feet),or horizontal lifeline applications shall be labeledaccordingly.

JShaw5.2.2.1 Customized absorbers for increasedweight (over 310 lb.), fall distance (over 6 feet),or horizontal lifeline applications shall be labeledaccordingly.

JShaw5.2.3.2 Warnings, if not suitable for fall arrest.

JShaw5.2.3.2 Warnings, if not suitable for fall arrest.

JShaw5.2.5.1 Diameter of rope or wire rope and widthand thickness of webbing used in the lanyard.

JShaw5.2.5.2 The fiber of other materials used in thelanyard construction.

6. EMPLOYER REQUIREMENTS

6.1 Training.

6.1.1 The employer shall provide a trainingprogram for each employee who might beexposed to fall hazards. The program shallenable each employee to recognize the hazards offalling and shall train each employee in theprocedures to be followed in order to minimizethese hazards. Relevant Federal, State and localregulatory requirements, procedures and standardsshall also be included.

6.1.2 The employer shall assure that eachemployee has been trained, as necessary, by aCompetent or Qualified Person in the followingareas: The nature of fall hazards in the workarea; the correct procedures for erecting,maintaining, disassembling and inspecting the fallprotection systems to be used; the use andoperation of personal fall arrest systems, safetynet systems and other protection to be used.

6.1.2.1 Employees shall demonstrate anunderstanding on at least the following: How theindividual components function together as asystem to restrain or arrest a fall; proper donningand adjustment; proper tie-off procedure;inspection and maintenance procedure; rescueprocedure; learning how equipment is to be usedon the specific project; and unique hazards.

6.1.2.2 Employee training shall include lectures,demonstrations and hands-on experienceperforming tasks described in section 6.1.2. 6.2 Rescue.

6.2.1 Employees shall be trained in self-rescue oralternate means shall be provided for promptrescue in the event of a fall.

6.2.2 A project-specific rescue plan shall bedeveloped which will provide for a form of rescuefor employees.

6.2.3 All rescuers shall be provided with adequatetraining, equipment and personal protectiveequipment where needed.

E6.2.1 Alternate means include retrieval andmedical care.

E6.1.1 For more information about the general

Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety, Health,and Environmental Training.

of any fall protection program. The individuals

issues of training, reference ANSI/ASSE Z490.1-2001

actually wearing and using the equipment must be

E6.1.2 Training is the most important component

thoroughly trained in all aspects of the equipment.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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6.3 Inspection.

6.3.1 A regular inspection and maintenanceprogram in accordance with the manufacturersinstructions shall be established.

6.3.1.1 The manufacturers instructions shall bereadily available for reference.

6.3.1.2 The date of the first use shall be recordedby the employer.

E6.3.1 Even though a maximum life of fallarrest equipment has been established by thisstandard or a manufacturer, this does not mean itwill last for this period. Therefore, inspectionprior to use is critical.

6.3.2 Formal inspections shall be made by eithera Competent or Qualified Person on at least asemi-annual basis.

6.3.2.1 Inspect the snap-hook or carabiner byexamining the gate and hook body to see if thehook is fully closed after manually opening andallowing the snap-hook or carabiner to self-closeslowly. Any separation by more than 0.125 in.in a jammed condition shall be reason forrejecting the snap-hook or carabiner from furtheruse by removal and tagging until it has receivedmaintenance or determined to be unfit for furtheruse and destroyed.

6.3.3 Prior to each use, fall protectionequipment shall be inspected by the user fordefects, damage or deterioration. Any suspecteddefective equipment shall be removed fromservice.

6.3.3.1 Harnesses, lanyards and lifelines thatshow evidence of wear beyond that deemedacceptable by the manufacturersrecommendations, shall be removed from service.

6.3.3.2 Self-retracting lanyards, rope grabs,tripods and other mechanical equipment thatshow evidence of wear beyond that deemedacceptable by the manufacturersrecommendations, may be recertified by themanufacturer following test and evaluation forre-use.

E6.3.2 Suggested examination periods are 3/1 to3/31 and 9/1 to 9/30 for each employer.

E6.3.3 The user should be instructed to observethe equipment for the appearance of specificdefects which could affect reliability and theirpersonal safety.

6.3.4 If the manufacturers label is not legible oris missing, the equipment shall be removed fromservice.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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JShaw6.3.2 Formal inspections shall be made by E6.3.2 Suggested examination periods are 3/

JShawto3/31 and 9/1 to 9/30 for each employer.

JShaw6.3.2 Formal inspections shall be made by eithera Competent or Qualified Person on at least asemi-annual basis.E6.3.2 Suggested examination periods are 3/1 to3/31 and 9/1 to 9/30 for each employer.

6.6 Fall Protection Equipment

6.7 Every job task shall be surveyed

6.7.1 Equipment Selection. If the hazardcannot be eliminated, then appropriate fall arrestequipment must be selected to restrict theindividual or arrest a fall, should it occur.

6.8 Fall Restraint Systems.

6.8.1 The work site shall be surveyed by aQualified Person to determine if the fall restraintsystem will provide protection from a free fall.

E6.7.1 A competent or Qualified Person mustselect the equipment to make certain that it willprovide the desired protection as well as besuitable for the specific work being performed.

7. TEST REQUIREMENTS

7.1 Harness, Belt, and LanyardPerformance Test Procedures. Fallprotection products which are designed andpackaged to operate as a system shall be testedaccording to Procedure A. Fall protectionproducts which are meant to operateinterchangeably with other fall protectionproducts, or systems which are easily brokendown to otherwise useable components shall betested according to Procedure B.

7.1.1 Strength Tests.

Procedure AThe fall arrest test system shall contain ananchorage which shall not have a deflectiongreater than .04 inch (1 mm) when a force of2,250 lb.. (10 kN) is applied.

E7.1.1 A fall factor of 1.0 is when the dropheight is equal to the lanyard length on aconventional system. A fall factor of 2.0 iswhen the drop height is equal to twice the lanyardlength, the maximum fall physically possible.Fall factors can range from 0. 1, a minimum fall,to 2.0, a maximum fall. The actual physicaldistance of the fall is dependent on the lanyardlength.

made by different manufacturers are used in a 6.4 When fall arrest components

system, a Competent Person shall determine that

and are compatible to one another.

6.5 A Competent Person shallensure that Self-retracting lanyards be installed so

they shall meet the requirements of this standard,

that the maximum free fall distance is limited to two feet.

shall be protected from abrasion, cutting, welding, electrical and chemical hazards and shall be selected to resist these hazards.

to identify potential fall hazards and appropriateprotection provided.

Competent Person.

Hazard Protection.

Compatibility.

Job Task.

ANSI A10.32-2004

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In the case of a fall arrest product, the harnessshall be affixed to a rigid test dummy weighing220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg +1.4 kg). The fall factor shall be 2.0.

In the case of a positioning or retrieval or similarproduct, the belt or harness shall be affixed to arigid test dummy (or a belt may be attached to arigid test weight) weighing 220 lb. +/- 3 lb. (100kg + 1.4 kg). The fall factor shall be 1.0.

Rig the product to subject the test dummy to theabove specified fall factor. Release the dummyquickly and cleanly, allowing it to fall free to itshanging location without interference,obstruction or hitting the floor during the test.Failure of the strength test shall consist of anybreakage or slippage sufficient to permit the testdummy to fall free.

7.1.1.1 Integral System and IntegralSubsystem Testing. Put the harness on thetest torso, fasten all buckles and adjust it snuglyas though the torso were a person. Attach thefree end of the lanyard to the load cell connectedto the test structure. Attach the quick releasemechanism to the test torso (neck ring for feetfirst drop and crotch ring for head first drop).Raise the test torso to a level which will allow a 6foot (1.829 mm) free fall or the maximumpermitted by the lanyard, whichever is less, uponrelease of the test torso. The torso shall bereleased from a point no more than 12 inches(305 mm) measured horizontally from the pointof the lanyard connection to the load cell.Release the torso using the quick releasemechanism. Measure and record the maximumarrest force and deceleration distance. After thedrop the torso is to remain suspended by theharness for a period of 5 minutes. During thepost-fall suspension period, measure and recordthe angle at rest. Perform the test once each fora feet-first and a head-first drop. A new testspecimen may be used for each test. Comparethe test results to the requirements in thisstandard.

Procedure B7.1.1.1 Fall Arrest Body Harness. The bodyharness to be tested shall be affixed snugly to arigid test dummy weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg+ 1.4 kg) and subjected to a fall factor of 2.0 inthe following manner:

E7.1.1.1 Minimum safety factors can bedetermined by testing at increased heights,increased weights, or a combination of both (thelatter has been done in the past). The "typical"worker is assumed to weigh 220 pounds (100

ANSI A10.32-2004

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The harness and test dummy shall be attached toan anchorage which shall not have a deflectiongreater than 0.4 inch(1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) isapplied. The lanyard used to attach the harnessto the rigid anchorage shall be a 6 foot +/- 1 inch(1.8 m +/- 2.5 cm) web-lanyard with a minimumtensile strength of 5,000 pounds. The lengthshall be measured under a tension of 10 lb. (4.5kg). One end of the lanyard shall be attached tothe rear D-ring on the harness, and the other endto the anchorage.

Hoist the test dummy to a point 6 feet .7 inch(1.8 m + 2.5 cm) above the anchorage point.Release the dummy quickly and cleanly, allowingit to fall free to its hanging location withoutinterference, obstruction or hitting the floorduring the test. Failure of the strength test shallconsist of any breakage or slippage sufficient topermit the test dummy to fall free or elongationof the web lanyard to a total length of 80 inches(2 m) at rest.

kilograms) and to be rigged to experience a fallfactor of 1.0 on a 6 foot lanyard. The safetyfactors are designed to account for variationsfrom this "typical" condition. The ANSI A10.32committee has concluded that the most likelyvariance from this is a misuse situation where theworker is rigged to experience a fall factor of 2.0.Although the committee most emphatically doesnot condone this misuse, it has chosen toduplicate this condition to perform the StrengthTests.

7.1.1.2 Positioning Harnesses, RetrievalHarnesses, Body Belts. The harness or belt tobe tested shall be affixed to a rigid test dummy(or it may be attached to a rigid test weightweighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg) andsubjected to a fall factor of 1.0 in the followingmanner,:

The harness and test weight shall be attached toan anchorage which shall not have a deflectiongreater than .04 inch(1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) isapplied. The lanyard used to attach the belt orharness to the rigid anchorage shall be a 6 foot 1 inch (1.8 m +/- 2.5 cm) web-lanyard with a

length should be measured under a tension of 10lb. (4.5 kilograms).

ANSI A10.32-2004

26

minimum tensile strength of 5000 lb.. The

+height equals the lanyard length (6 foot 2 inches +(1.8 m 5 cm) drop). Release the weight quickly

location without interference, obstruction, or

Hoist the test dummy to a point where the drop

strength test shall consist of any breakage or

and cleanly, allowing it to fall free to its hanging

slippage sufficient to permit the test weight to fallfree or elongation of the web lanyard to a total

hitting the floor during the test. Failure of the

length of 80 inches (2 m) at rest.

7.1.1.3 Shock Absorbing Lanyards, or Rope,Web, Lanyards Intended for Fall Arrest.

7.1.1.3.1 Lanyard Material. Lanyard materialshall be tested for tensile strength according toASTM D4268 and shall not break below 5,000lb..

The lanyard or shock absorber/lanyard to betested shall be affixed to a rigid test weightweighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg) andsubjected to a fall factor of 2.0 in the followingmanner:

The lanyard and test weight shall be attached toan anchorage which shall not have deflectiongreater than .04 inch (1 mm) when a force of2,250 lb. (10 kN) is applied. Hoist the testweight to a point where the drop height equalstwice the lanyard length, then release the weightquickly and cleanly. The weight shall fall free toits hanging location without interference,obstruction, or hitting the floor during the test.Failure of the strength test shall consist of anydamage sufficient to permit the test weight to hitthe floor or ground.

7.1.1.3.1 A lanyard or shock absorber/lanyardshall normally be tested independently of otherdevices. However, in the case of a lanyardpermanently fastened to a rope grab, test thecombination according to 7.3.1.

7.1.1.4 Positioning, Retrieval, or SimilarLanyards Not Intended for Fall Arrest. Alanyard shall be affixed to a rigid test weightweighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg) andsubjected to a fall factor of 1.0 in the followingmanner,:

The lanyard shall be attached to an anchoragewhich shall not have a deflection greater than .04inch (1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) isapplied. Hoist the test dummy to a point wherethe drop height equals the lanyard length.Release the weight quickly and cleanly. The testweight shall fall free to its hanging locationwithout interference, obstruction, or hitting thefloor or ground during the test. Failure of thestrength test shall consist of any damagesufficient to permit the test weight to hit thefloor or ground.

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JShaw7.1.1.3.1 Lanyard Material. Lanyard materialshall be tested for tensile strength according toASTM D4268 and shall not break below 5,000lb..

7.1.2 Force Test. This standard tests onlylanyards for fall arrest forces. Alternative fallprotection designs which do not use a lanyardshall use a modification of this procedure,approved by a Qualified Person, to be sure thatthe end user is subjected to no greater than 1,000lb. (4.5 kN) in a fall.

E7.1.2 Drop impact testing with a rigid testweight will yield a higher fall arrest force thanwould be experienced by a person falling underidentical conditions. This is due to physiologicalfactors such as flailing limbs, internal energyabsorption, etc. A rule of thumb used by both theindustry and OSHA is that this ratio is 1.4 / 1.For example, if the force recorded in a test on arigid weight is 1,400 lb., the force on a personusing that same system would be 1,000 lb..

Procedure AThe fall arrest test system shall contain ananchorage which shall not have a deflectiongreater than .04 inch (1 mm) when a force of2,250 lb. (10 kN) is applied. The product to betested shall be affixed to a rigid test weightweighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg). Theproduct shall be attached to a force measuringdevice having the characteristics in Section7.1.2.1 below. Attach a recorder to obtain thepeak force and, if desired, the time trace of theresulting force, either at the actual time or at alater time, after storage of the information. Theforce measuring device shall be attached to therigid anchorage. The initial length shall bedetermined under the 220 lb. load.

Rig the product to subject the test weight to a fallfactor of 1.0. Release the weight quickly andcleanly. The weight shall fall free to its hanginglocation without interference, obstruction orhitting the floor or ground during the test.Failure of the force test shall be a recordedmaximum arrest force of greater than 1,400 lb.(6.2 kN).

Procedure B

7.1.2.1 Shock Absorbing Lanyards, or Rope,Web, Lanyards Intended for Fall Arrest.Measuring Range - 0-3,000 lb. minimum

Resolution (0-1,000 lb.) - 10 lb. maximum

Resonant Frequency - 200 Hz minimumFrequency Response - 100 Hz

Electronics must be in compliance with theNational institute of Standards and Technology(NIST).

Accuracy - 2.5% Full Scale

Rigidity - 0.001 inch maximum at full load

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JShawFrequency Response

JShawResonant Frequency - 200 Hz minimumFrequency Response - 100 Hz

JShawResonant Frequency - 200 Hz minimumFrequency Response - 100 Hz

Attach a recorder to obtain the peak force and, ifdesired, the time trace of the resulting force,either at the actual time or at a later time, afterstorage of the information. The force measuringdevice shall be attached to a rigid anchorage,which shall not have a deflection greater than .04

Carefully suspend the test weight (do not allowany free fall) from the anchorage supported onlyby the lanyard. Determine the length of thelanyard under the 220 lb. (100 k-g) load. Thetest weight shall be hoisted to a point that thedrop height equals the lanyard length, which isequivalent to a fall factor of 1.0. Release theweight quickly and cleanly. The weight shall fallfree to its hanging location without interference,obstruction or hitting the floor or ground duringthe test. Failure of the force test shall be arecorded maximum arrest force of greater than1,400 lb. (6.2 kN) and for a final measuredlength (while still under the 220 lb. load) greaterthan 42 inches (1.1 m) longer than the initialmeasured length.

7.1.2.1.1 In the case of a shock absorber/lanyard permanently attached to a rope grab, the1,400 lb. (6.1 kN) maximum arresting forceapplies to the combination, not to the shockabsorber or the rope grab tested separately.

7.2 Lifeline Performance Test Procedures.

7.2.1 Strength Test.

7.2.1.1 Wire rope shall be tested for tensilestrength according to the procedure in FederalSpec. RRW410-Rev. D and shall not break below5,000 lb..

7.2.1.2 Wire rope tensile strength shall bedetermined at a pull rate of 1 inch (2.5 cm) perminute.

7.2.1.3 Synthetic rope tensile strength shall bedetermined at a pull rate of 2 inches (5.0 cm) perminute.

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inch (1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN)is applied.

JShaw7.2.1.1 Wire rope shall be tested for tensilestrength according to the procedure in FederalSpec. RRW410-Rev. D and shall not break below5,000 lb..

E7.2.2.1 In order to ensure consistency intesting, tensile tests are run on a tensile testingmachine using a straight piece of brand newmaterial. In actual use, tied knots, abrasive wear,and bending over sharp edges can significantlylower these values. Care should be taken toeliminate knots, minimize wear, and use a properanchorage connector so that the lifeline orlanyard does not come into contact with sharpedges. In addition, frequent inspections must beperformed to remove questionable or unsafeproducts from service.

7.3 Rope Grab Performance TestProcedures.

7.3.1 Strength Test. The rope grab to betested shall be attached to a vertical lifelinewhich meets all of the requirements of the ropespecified in the labels or literature packaged withthe rope grab. Rope grabs without informationon acceptable lifelines shall be consideredincomplete and shall not be tested. The verticallifeline shall be attached to an anchorage whichshall not have a deflection greater than .04 inch(1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) isapplied. There must be a minimum of 4 ft. (1.2m) of lifeline beneath the rope grab connectionpoint. The rope grab shall be attached to a rigidtest weight weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4kg) with a lanyard (See 7.3.1 below). Carefullysuspend the test weight (do not allow any freefall) from the anchorage supported only by thelifeline, rope grab and lanyard. The distancebetween the anchorage point and the rope grabconnection point shall be 2 ft. (.6 m) + 1 inch(25 mm). Permanently mark the location of therope grab on the lifeline. Determine the distancefrom the marked location on the lifeline to thesuspended 220 lb. (100 kg) weight.

7.3.1.1 If the rope grab comes with apermanently attached lanyard, the test weightshall be hoisted to a point that results in a fallfactor of 2.0. Release the weight quickly andcleanly, allowing it to fall free to its hanginglocation without interference, obstruction, orhitting the floor during the test. Failure shallconsist of any breakage which allows the testweight to fall free, or slippage which allows theweight to travel greater than 42 inches (1.1

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the area where the rope grab was activated.

7.2.2.1 Lifelines used to test rope grab devicesshall retain at least 5000 lb. tensile strength in

of 7.2.1.Tests shall be run according to the requirements

7.2.2 Retained Strength-After Testing.

Lifeline damage shall be evaluated according to7.2.2.

7.3.1.2 If the rope grab does not come with apermanently attached lanyard, use a 3 ft. 1inch (0.9 m 2.5 cm) web-lanyard with aminimum tensile of 5,000 lb.. The length shouldbe measured under a tension of 10 lb. (4.5 kg).

Hoist the test weight to a point 3 ft. + 2 inches(0.9 m + 5 cm) above the rope grab. Release theweight quickly and cleanly, allowing it to fall freeto its hanging location without interference,obstruction, or hitting the floor during the test.Failure shall consist of any breakage which allowsthe test weight to fall free, or slippage whichallows the weight to travel greater than 42 inches(1.1 meter) below its original hanging location asmeasured from the mark on the lifeline.

Lifeline damage shall be evaluated according to7.2.2.

7.4 Hardware Test Procedures.

7.4.1 Corrosion. All hardware shall be tested inaccordance with ASTM B117-90 for corrosionresistance for a period of 48 hours.

7.4.2 Tensile Strength Testing of Rings,Snaphooks and Carabiners.

7.4.2.1 Rings. A 5,000 pound test load shall beapplied to the D ring, oval ring or otherconnector over 1 minute to reach load and avoidany dynamic effects; mandrels (test fixture pins)shall be rigid and of round or rectangular cross-section. Maintain the test load for a minimumperiod of 1 minute and evaluate in accordancewith Section 4.5.2.1.

pound test load shall be applied to the snaphook

avoid any dynamic effects; mandrels (test fixturepins) shall be rigid and of round or rectangularcross-section maximum size shall be no greaterthan the throat opening of the snaphook orcarabiner. Maintain the test load for a minimumperiod of 1 minute and evaluate in accordancewith Section 4.5.2.2.

or carabiner over 1 minute to reach load and

7.4.2.2 Snaphooks and Caribiners. A 5,000

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meter) below its original hanging location asmeasured from the mark on the lifeline.

7.4.3 Gate Load Test Procedure.

Position the

perpendicular to the test bed and the gates

7.4.3.2 Side Load Testing. Position thesnaphook or carabiner in the clamping fixturesuch that the opening motion of the gate is

snaphook or carabiner is supported above the testbed from each end. Measure the height from the

until the required test load of 350 pounds isreached. Maintain the test load for minimumperiod of 1 minute. While the load is applied,measure the distance of gate separation from thehook or carabiner nose at the point of minimumclearance. Remove the load and measure the gateheight from the test bed. Calculate thepermanent deformation of the gate.

Buckles. Subject the buckles, oval ring used asadjuster or other adjuster to an internally appliedtest load of 4,000 pounds (17.8 kN) over 1minute to reach load and avoid any dynamiceffects. Evaluate the buckle or adjuster inaccordance with Section 4.5.4.

7.4.5 Proof Load Testing Procedure. D rings,Oval rings, O rings, Carabiners and Snaphooksshall be subjected to a 100% proof loadverification. Time to reach the 3,600 pound (16kN) shall be greater than 1 second. Maintainthat proof load for a period of not less than 2seconds. Inspect the connector in accordancewith Section 4.5.5.

such that the outside face of the gate is generallysnaphook or carabiner in the clamping fixture

motion is perpendicular to the test bed. Using

as close to the nose of the hook body as possible.

required test load of 220 pounds is reached. TheThe load shall be applied increasingly until the

rigid bar travel rate shall not exceed 3 inches/

period of 1 minute. While the load is applied,measure the distance of the gate separation

perpendicular to the face of the gate at point

from the hook or carabiner nose at the pointof minimum clearance.

a rigid bar shown in Appendix B, apply a load

test bed as shown in Appendix C. Apply the test

generally parallel to the test bed and the

minute. Maintain the test load for minimum

load at an increasing rate (speed of 3 inches/minute)

7.4.4 Tensile Strength of Adjusters and

parallel to the test bed and the gates motion isStandard, Safety Requirement for Personal Fall

E7.4.3.1 Please see Appendix B, which is Figure 22from the Z359.1-1992 (R1999) American National

Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components

Standard, Safety Requirement for Personal Fall from the Z359.1-1992 (R1999) American National

Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components

E7.4.3.2 Please see Appendix C, which is Figure 23

7.4.3.1 Gate Face Testing.

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APPENDIX A

ANSI A10.32-2004 APPENDIX B

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APPENDIX C

A SS E

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