4 External Access System 11/01/10
3) Installation
PLAN SYSTEM
Consider all factors that will affect safety during use of this equipment.
Track must be laid out and positioned on vessel as determined by a naval architect or other suitably qualified person.
User must ensure that distance required to arrest fall is less than obstruction below. Height of user plus extended
safety lanyard length must not be more than the height from rail to ground minus 2 m (6.5 ft).
Installer shall ensure suitability of base materials into which track is fixed and that it is capable of sustaining test
force as detailed in standard EN795, class D.
The following publications give detailed information to ensure safe and legally compliant installation. EN795:1996
– Protection against falls from a height – Anchor devices – Requirements and Testing. BS7883:2005 – Code of
practice for the design, selection, installation, use and maintenance of anchor devices conforming to BS EN 795.
MGN422 (M) – Use of Equipment to undertake work over the side on yachts and other
vessels. (see Appendix A). Harken External Access System – Installation and Proof Testing
Advice. (see Appendix B).
Avoid attaching system components where suspension and/or fall arrest rope may come
in contact with, or abrade against, unprotected sharp edges.
TRACK INSTALLATION
Always use threadlocking solution or locknuts.
Precise track alignment at joints is critical for smooth-running cars. Use Splice Links,
Part 1619, and round rods and spring clamps to align track during installation. Use
transfer punch to mark hole centers. Keep track in alignment, until secured, with spring
or "C" clamps when marking, drilling holes and inserting fasteners.
To prevent cars from rolling off track, fasten endstops to track ends using M8 (5/16")
stainless steel fasteners.
All fasteners must be coated with an anti-corrosion compound such as Tef-Gel.
Installer must ensure that instructions and limitations of use are clearly displayed close to system.
This should include a statement that it is designed exclusively for use of personal protective equipment.
4) Use
After a Fall: Any equipment which has been subjected to the forces of arresting a fall must be removed from
service immediately and destroyed by user or an authorised person.
Rescue: when using this equipment, the employer must have a rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it
and communicate that plan to users, authorised persons, and rescuers.
Track should run horizontal to water plane, but can be mounted at various angles on this horizontal structure.
INCORRECT
CORRECT
Use transfer punch to mark
hole centers. Hold track in
alignment, until secured, with
spring or "C" clamps when
marking and drilling holes.
