MSA 415865 User manual

MSAsafety.com
User Instructions
Rope Grab Subsystem
Order No.: 10081307/08
Print Spec.: 10000005389 (R)
CR 800000025659
Model/Modelo/Modèle

NOTE: Custom lifeline lengths are available, contact MSA.
WARNING
National standards and state, provincial and federal laws require the user to be trained before using
this product. Use this manual as part of a user safety training program that is appropriate for the
user’s occupation. These instructions must be provided to users before use of the product and
retained for ready reference by the user. The user must read, understand (or have explained), and
heed all instructions, labels, markings and warnings supplied with this product and with those
products intended for use in association with it. FAILURE TO DO SO CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH.
1000 Cranberry Woods Drive
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
USA
Phone 1-800-MSA-2222
Fax [phone]
For your local MSA contacts please go to our website www.MSAsafety.com
© MSA 2018 All rights reserved

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Contents
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
Contents
1 Safety Regulations .................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Correct Use ....................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Usage Specifications ......................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Usage Limitations .............................................................................................................................. 4
1.3.1 Physical Limitations ........................................................................................................................... 4
1.3.2 Hazards ............................................................................................................................................. 4
1.4 Liability Information ........................................................................................................................... 5
1.5 Safety and Precautionary Measures to be Adopted .......................................................................... 5
1.6 Warranty ............................................................................................................................................ 5
2 Description ................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1 Specifications of Components ........................................................................................................... 6
2.1.1 Shock Absorbing Lanyard ................................................................................................................. 6
2.1.2 Rope Grab Lifeline (Vertical Lifeline) ................................................................................................. 6
2.1.3 Rope Grab Device ............................................................................................................................. 7
2.2 Markings and Labels ......................................................................................................................... 8
2.3 System Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 10
2.3.1 Compatibility of Components and Subsystems ............................................................................... 10
2.3.2 Making Proper Connections ............................................................................................................ 10
2.3.3 Anchorages and Anchorage Connectors ........................................................................................ 10
2.3.4 Compatible Rope Grab and Vertical Lifeline Connections .............................................................. 10
3 Use ............................................................................................................................................ 11
3.1 Planning the Use of Systems .......................................................................................................... 11
3.1.1 Rescue and Evacuation .................................................................................................................. 11
3.1.2 Pendulum (Swing) Falls .................................................................................................................. 11
3.2 Rope Grab Inspection Before Each Use ......................................................................................... 11
3.3 Making Connections ........................................................................................................................ 11
3.3.1 Anchorage Connection .................................................................................................................... 11
3.3.2 Usage .............................................................................................................................................. 11
3.3.3 Installing and Using ......................................................................................................................... 12
3.4 General Usage and Precautions ..................................................................................................... 13
3.5 Free Fall Distance, Total Fall Distance, and System Elongation .................................................... 14
4 Cleaning, Maintenance and Storage ...................................................................................... 16
4.1 Cleaning Instructions ....................................................................................................................... 16
4.2 Maintenance and Service ................................................................................................................ 16
4.3 Storage ............................................................................................................................................ 16
5 Inspection ................................................................................................................................. 17
5.1 Inspection Frequency ...................................................................................................................... 17
5.2 Procedure for Inspection ................................................................................................................. 17
5.3 Corrective Action ............................................................................................................................. 17
5.4 Inspection Log ................................................................................................................................. 18
5.4.1 Inspection Diagram ......................................................................................................................... 18

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Safety Regulations
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
1 Safety Regulations
1.1 Correct Use
The Rope Grab subsystem is a component of a personal fall arrest system. The components of the
Rope Grab subsystem are a lanyard with an integrated energy (shock) absorber, fall arrester (rope grab)
and lifeline. Other components required to make up complete systems are MSA full body harnesses only
and a suitable anchorage and anchorage connector, as determined by a competent person. The length of
the lifeline must extend either: 1) from the anchorage to the ground, or, 2) from the anchorage, a suitable
distance beyond the level of the lowest working surface.
See instruction labels on the product for capacity of that system. All systems are designed for a single
person, with only one person on the lifeline at any time.
The Rope Grab subsystem is intended for use by trained and qualified personnel.
It is imperative that this manual be read and observed when using the product. In particular, the safety
instructions, as well as the information for the use and operation of the product, must be carefully read and
observed. Furthermore, the national regulations applicable in the user's country must be taken into account
for a safe use.
Alternative use, or use outside this specification will be considered as non-compliance. This also applies
especially to unauthorized alterations to the product and to commissioning work that has not been carried
out by MSA or authorized persons.
1.2 Usage Specifications
-Rope Grab subsystem components meet the current edition of ANSI Z359.15, CSA Z259.2.5 standards,
and/or applicable OSHA regulations as labeled. Refer to the individual product labels for exact certifica-
tions. These instructions and the labels on the product fulfill the requirements of those standards and
regulations.
-ANSI Z359.15 Rope Grab systems have a capacity range of 130 lbs (59 kg) to 310 lbs (140 kg). Refer
to individual product labels for exact capacity ranges.
-CSA Z259.2.5 rope grab systems have a capacity range of 45 kg to 115 kg.
-Free fall distance (limit) must not exceed 6.0 ft (1.8 m) in accordance with OSHA. Free fall distance (limit)
must not exceed 5 ft (1.5 m) for compliance with ANSI Z359.15 requirements. Limited to 5 ft (1.5 m) by
Canadian regulations. The user must comply with applicable standards and regulations.
1.3 Usage Limitations
1.3.1 Physical Limitations
Persons with muscular, skeletal, or other physical disorders should consult a physician before using the
Rope Grab subsystem. Pregnant women and minors must never use the Rope Grab subsystem. Increasing
age and lowered physical fitness may reduce a person’s ability to withstand shock loads during fall arrest
or prolonged suspension. Consult a physician if there is any question about physical ability to safely use this
product to arrest a fall or suspend.
1.3.2 Hazards
Chemical hazards, heat and corrosion may cause damage. More frequent inspections are required. Do not
use in environments with temperatures greater than 185° F (85° C) as this will cause the lifeline to melt. Use
caution when working near electrical hazards, moving machinery, sharp edges and abrasive surfaces.
WARNING
The rope grab and vertical lifeline system must not be used when the user is positioned on an
unstable surface, fine grain material, or particulate solids such as sand or coal. Misuse can result in
serious injury or death.

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Safety Regulations
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
1.4 Liability Information
MSA accepts no liability in cases where the device has been used inappropriately or not as intended. The
selection and use of the device are the exclusive responsibility of the individual operator.
Product liability claims, warranties and guarantees made by MSA with respect to the device are voided, if it
is not used, serviced or maintained in accordance with the instructions in this manual.
1.5 Safety and Precautionary Measures to be Adopted
It is the responsibility of the purchaser of the Rope Grab subsystem to assure that product users are made
familiar with these User Instructions and trained by a competent person. Training must be conducted
without undue exposure of the trainee to hazards. The effectiveness of training should be periodically
assessed (at least annually) and the need for more training or retraining determined. MSA offers training
programs. Contact MSA for training information.
1.6 Warranty
WARNING
Do not expose the line to sharp edges, abrasive surfaces, sparks, flame, or heat above 185 °F
(85 °C).
Do not install where equipment may encounter electrical hazards or moving machinery.
Express Warranty – MSA warrants that the product furnished is free from mechanical defects or faulty
workmanship for a period of one (1) year from first use or eighteen (18) months from date of shipment,
whichever occurs first, provided it is maintained and used in accordance with MSA’s instructions and/or
recommendations. Replacement parts and repairs are warranted for ninety (90) days from the date of
repair of the product or sale of the replacement part, whichever occurs first. MSA shall be released from
all obligations under this warranty in the event repairs or modifications are made by persons other than its
own authorized service personnel or if the warranty claim results from misuse of the product. No agent,
employee or representative of MSA may bind MSA to any affirmation, representation or modification of the
warranty concerning the goods sold under this contract. MSA makes no warranty concerning components
or accessories not manufactured by MSA, but will pass on to the Purchaser all warranties of manufactu-
rers of such components. THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS,
IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, AND IS STRICTLY LIMITED TO THE TERMS HEREOF. MSA SPECIFI-
CALLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE.
Exclusive Remedy - It is expressly agreed that the Purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy for breach of
the above warranty, for any tortious conduct of MSA, or for any other cause of action, shall be the repair
and/or replacement, at MSA’s option, of any equipment or parts thereof, that after examination by MSA
are proven to be defective. Replacement equipment and/or parts will be provided at no cost to the
Purchaser, F.O.B. Purchaser’s named place of destination. Failure of MSA to successfully repair any
nonconforming product shall not cause the remedy established hereby to fail of its essential purpose.
Exclusion of Consequential Damages - Purchaser specifically understands and agrees that under no
circumstances will MSA be liable to Purchaser for economic, special, incidental, or consequential
damages or losses of any kind whatsoever, including but not limited to, loss of anticipated profits and any
other loss caused by reason of the non-operation of the goods. This exclusion is applicable to claims for
breach of warranty, tortious conduct or any other cause of action against MSA.
For additional information please contact the Customer Service Department at 1-800-MSA-2222
(1-800-672-2222).

6
Description
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
2 Description
The Rope Grab subsystem is designed as a means of fall arrest between a worker wearing a compatible
full-body harness and a suitable fall arrest anchorage. It is used to arrest the user in a fall from a working
height and suspend the user until rescue can be initiated. It consists of a Rope Grab assembly and a vertical
lifeline.
2.1 Specifications of Components
2.1.1 Shock Absorbing Lanyard
-The minimum breaking strength of the 1.75 in (45 mm) wide polyester lanyard and shock absorber
webbing element is 5000 lbf (22.2 kN), when new.
-Shock absorber limits fall arrest forces experienced by the user to under 900 lbf (4 kN) if the user is under
310 lbs (140 kg) in dry conditions. In accordance with ANSI Z359.15, the shock absorber limits average
fall arrest forces to under 1125 lbf (5 kN) if the user is under 310 lbs (140 kg) in hot, cold, or wet condi-
tions. The fall arrest distance is limited to 3.5 ft (1 m). For ANSI Z359.15 Rope Grab Assemblies only,
the fall arrest distance is limited to 4 ft (1.2 m) of energy absorber deployment.
-The connector is zinc plated steel and 100% proof tested to 3600 lbf (16kN). Minimum breaking strength
when new is 5000 lbf (22.2 kN).
-Rope grabs without an integral shock absorber must use an MSA shock absorbing lanyard approved to
the applicable agency standard ANSI Z359.13. Lanyard must not exceed 36 in (0.9 m) in accordance
with the current edition of OSHA.
2.1.2 Rope Grab Lifeline (Vertical Lifeline)
-See rope grab label for full product specifications.
-Rope part number found on vertical lifeline label.
Rope Part
Number Material Diameter Minimum Breaking Strength
R512539 Polyester 0.63 in. (16 mm) 7825 lbf (34.8 kN)
R512544 Polysteel®core enveloped with polyester
fibers
0.63 in. (16 mm) 9450 lbf (42.0 kN)
SRP9200 Polysteel®core enveloped with polyester
fibers
0.63 in. (16 mm) 7530 lbf (33.5 kN)
SRP9300 Polypropylene 0.63 in. (16 mm) 11000 lbf (48.9 kN)
SRP7082 Polypropylene/Polyethylene 0.63 in. (16 mm) 6840 lbf (30.4 kN)
SRP120580 Polypropylene 0.63 in. (16 mm) 8910 lbf (39.6 kN)
WARNING
No more than one rope grab assembly must be attached to a rope grab vertical lifeline. No more than
one user must be attached to a single anchor lifeline. Misuse can result in serious injury or death.

7
Description
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
2.1.3 Rope Grab Device
-The rope grab component is steel.
-The rope grab device is compatible only with lifeline rope that has been tested as a system. See the rope
grab and vertical lifeline compatibility table in this user instruction.
Model Number Lanyard Length Anti-Panic Feature ANSI Z359.15 CSA Z259.2.5 OSHA
415940 30 in. (0.762 m) * * *
10077718 30 in. (0.762 m) * * *
10077719 24 in. (0.609 m) *
WARNING
The rope grab assembly must not be attached to more than one vertical lifeline. The rope grab
assembly must not be attached to more than one user. Misuse can result in serious injury or death.

8
Description
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
2.2 Markings and Labels
The following labels must be present, legible and securely attached to the Rope Grab components. The
Formal Inspection Grid must be punched with a date (month/year) within the last six months. If not, remove
the Rope Grab components from use and mark it as “UNUSABLE” until a Formal Inspection is performed.
415940

9
Description
Rope Grab Subsystem
US

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Description
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
2.3 System Requirements
2.3.1 Compatibility of Components and Subsystems
The Rope Grab subassembly is designed to be used with other MSA-approved products. Use of the
Rope Grab subassembly with products that are not made by MSA may adversely affect the functional capa-
bility between system components and reliability of the complete system. Connecting subassemblies must
be suitable for use in the application (e.g. fall arrest, climbing protection, restraint, rescue or evacuation).
Contact MSA with any questions regarding compatibility of equipment used with the Rope Grab subas-
sembly.
2.3.2 Making Proper Connections
When using a carabiner to connect to an anchorage, or when coupling components of the system together,
be certain accidental disengagement (“rollout”) cannot occur. Rollout is possible when interference between
a connector and the mating connector causes the gate or keeper to accidentally open and release. Rollout
occurs when the connector is snapped to an undersized ring such as an eyebolt or non-compatibly shaped
anchorage connector. Only self-closing, self-locking snaphooks and carabiners should be used to reduce
the possibility of rollout when making connections.
Do not use connectors that will not completely close over the attachment object. Do not make knots in a
lanyard. Do not make knots in a lifeline between the rope grab and the anchorage. Do not hook the lanyard
back onto itself. Snaphooks and carabiners must not connect to each other. Always follow the manufac-
turer’s instructions supplied with each system component.
2.3.3 Anchorages and Anchorage Connectors
Anchorages for personal fall arrest systems must have a strength capable of supporting a static load,
applied in directions permitted by the system, of at least: (a) 3,600 lbf (16 kN) when certification exists, or
(b) 5,000 lbf (22.2 kN) in the absence of certification. See ANSI Z359.0 for definition of certification. See
ANSI Z359.1, section 7.2.3. This requirement is consistent with OSHA requirements under 20 CFR 1910,
Subpart F, Section 1910.66, Appendix C. In addition, it is recommended that the user of personal fall arrest
systems refer to ANSI Z359.1, Section 7, for important considerations in equipment selection.
2.3.4 Compatible Rope Grab and Vertical Lifeline Connections
* These combinations meet CSA requirements
Both the rope grab and vertical lifeline must be labelled as CSA compliant for the entire system to meet CSA
certification.
WARNING
Use only the following rope (vertical lifeline) and rope grab (fall arrester) connections. Misuse can
result in serious injury or death.
Rope Grab Part Number
Rope Part Number SVLGT537R 10161804 10168042
R512539 ---- Compatible* Compatible
R512544 Compatible Compatible ----
SRP9200 Compatible Compatible Compatible
SRP9300 Compatible ---- ----
SRP7082 Compatible ---- ----

11
Use
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
3Use
3.1 Planning the Use of Systems
3.1.1 Rescue and Evacuation
The user must have a rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it. The plan must take into account
the equipment and special training necessary to effect prompt rescue under all foreseeable conditions. If
the rescue will be from a confined space, the provisions of OSHA regulation 1910.146 and ANSI Z117.1
must be taken into account.
3.1.2 Pendulum (Swing) Falls
Swing falls can occur when the system is not anchored directly above the user. The force of striking an
object in a pendular motion can cause serious injury or death. Always minimize swing falls by working as
directly below the anchorage point as possible.
3.2 Rope Grab Inspection Before Each Use
Inspect the Rope Grab subsystem to verify that it is in serviceable condition. Examine every inch of the Rope
Grab working rope line for severe wear, frays or broken strands, cuts, or other damage.
Inspect the shock absorbing lanyard to verify it is in serviceable condition. Examine every inch of the
webbing for severe wear, cuts, burns, frayed edges, abrasion, discoloration, or other damage.
Examine stitching for any pulled, loose or torn stitches. Inspect the hardware to verify they are functional
and free from cracks, breaks, missing or loose parts. Examine the Rope Grab device for missing, broken,
altered or damaged parts. Do not use the Rope Grab if the inspection of any component reveals an unsafe
condition. Additionally, the Rope Grab subsystem must be inspected by a competent person other than the
user at intervals of no more than six months.
3.3 Making Connections
3.3.1 Anchorage Connection
Attach the carabiner on the lifeline to the overhead anchorage connector. The other end of the lifeline must
hang to the ground or some distance below the next working level. Heavy padding must be used to protect
the lifeline from sharp edges.
3.3.2 Usage
Manual Fall Arrest Mode
If the manual rope grab is purchased separately, to install the rope grab begin by untying the knot at the end
of the vertical lifeline (if present). Feed the lifeline through the rope grab and then tie a knot at the end of
the vertical lifeline. Ensure that the arrow on the rope grab (see figure 1) always points toward the ancho-
rage. These particular devices will NOT follow the user freely up or down the lifeline without user interven-
tion. Attach snaphook on lanyard to back D-ring of a full body harness. To move the rope grab along the
vertical lifeline, depress the lever towards the anchorage, which releases the locking levers (figure 1). Never
move the rope grab without stable footing. Never manipulate or hold the fall arrester body or lever, instead
move the fall arrester up/down by the lanyard component.
WARNING
If the Rope Grab or lifeline has been subjected to fall arrest forces, it must be immediately removed
from use and destroyed.

12
Use
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
Automatic Fall Arrest Mode
Some rope grabs can be placed in a closed (unlocked) position, which allows the device to follow the user
freely up or down the lifeline. In the event of a fall, the rope grab (fall arrester) will automatically grip the
lifeline and arrest the fall. Never manipulate or hold the fall arrester body or lever, instead move the fall
arrester up/down by the lanyard component.
3.3.3 Installing and Using
To attach certain rope grabs to the rope, hold the rope grab with the arrow pointing up. In accordance with
CSA regulations, some devices have an anti-upside down feature which prevents opening or closing if in
the improper orientation.
Fig. 1 Depress to Release
ROPE
ROPE
DEPRESS TO
RELEASE
(1) Lift the locking lever under the locking screw
knob.
(2) Unscrew the knob and open the rope grab, then
place on the rope.
(3) Close the rope grab and screw in the locking
screw knob, and close the locking lever. Check
that rope grab travels freely up and down the rope
and that it locks if dropped.
(4) For non-integral fall arresters, attach the
snaphook of the lanyard to the ring of the fall
arrester. Attach the snaphook on the lanyard to
the back D-ring of a full body harness.
LOCKING
LEVER
ROPE
SCREW
KNOB

13
Use
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
If the rope grab does not have a locking screw knob, but rather a latching system, use the following direc-
tions:
(1) Move the red pivot latch down and away to disengage.
(2) Press on the lower portion of the latch and pull the latch pin away from the device to the end of its range
of motion.
As the latch is moved away, it is now possible to swing the rope grab gate out and away from the
body of the device exposing the interior of the body.
(3) Place the rope inside the body, close the gate ensuring the spring loaded gate is closed, and return
the red latch lock to its closed position.
3.4 General Usage and Precautions
For best performance, a weight should be added to the lifeline at the bottom to ensure that there is tension
on the line while in use. Do not permit slack line in the system, as this can increase fall distance and swing
falls. Do not cross over the lifeline of another worker. The user must account for rope stretch when planning
the use of the system. Use the chart below for static stretch clearance required when using a rope grab and
vertical lifeline.
In accordance with CSA only, the lower end of the lifeline shall have a termination that prevents the fall
arrester from passing through that termination. When the line is installed, the bottom end shall have a coun-
terweight to provide stiffness.
Fig. 2 Pull-up to Release
ROPE
ROPE
PULL-UP TO
RELEASE
Rope Part Number
Condition R512539 R512544 SRP9200 SRP9300 SRP7082 SRP120580
Wet 6.66% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
4.60% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
5.25% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
5.25% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
12.30% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
3.00% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
Dry 6.66% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
4.70% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
4.25% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
4.25% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
10.80% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)
3.00% @
1800 lbf (8 kN)

14
Use
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
3.5 Free Fall Distance, Total Fall Distance, and System Elongation
Fig. 3 Fall Arrester (Rope Grab) with Lanyard and Shock Absorber
Do not exceed free fall distance specified by applicable regulations and standards. To calculate the total fall
distance, sum the following:
Rope Part Number
Condition R512539 R512544 SRP9200 SRP9300 SRP7082 SRP120580
Wet 3.33% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
2.30% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
2.63% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
2.63% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
6.15% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
1.50% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
Dry 3.33% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
2.35% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
2.13% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
2.13% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
5.40% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
1.50% @
900 lbf (4 kN)
WARNING
Use ONLY an MSA integral or separate shock absorbing lanyard to connect the fall arrester to the
dorsal D-ring of the harness. The length of the lanyard must comply with applicable agency stan-
dards as defined in Section 1.2.1 of this User Instruction manual. Misuse can result in death or
serious injury. Consider the elongation of the fall arrester when determining the adequate clearance
to obstructions or grade in the event of a fall; otherwise, the clearance may be insufficient, resulting
in death or serious injury.
1 Rope Grab Assembly 3 Shock Absorber
2 Web Lanyard 4 Connector
Example:
2x length of the rope grab (found on label) 2 x 36” = 72”
shock absorber extension (found on label) 42” extension
stretch in rope at 1800 lbf
(found on label and in this user instruction)
30’ rope x 0.0666 = 24”
3ft safety margin 36”
Total Fall Distance Total Fall Distance = 174” or 14.5ft
1234

15
Use
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
WARNING
-The Rope Grab will work properly only when used with a lifeline meeting the specifications
supplied by MSA. Use of any substitute may result in serious injury or death.
-Improper installation of the device on the lifeline will prevent free movement over the line and
prevent locking of the device on the line during a fall.
-Never grasp a rope grab while moving. In the event of a fall, grasping a rope grab may interfere
with its fall arresting capabilities.
-When working near the end of a lifeline, tie a knot at the end of the vertical lifeline to prevent the
rope grab from sliding off the end of the vertical lifeline.
-Never tie a knot in the vertical lifeline between the anchorage and the rope grab as this may seve-
rely reduce the strength of the vertical lifeline.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in serious injury or death.

16
Cleaning, Maintenance and Storage
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
4 Cleaning, Maintenance and Storage
4.1 Cleaning Instructions
Clean the components with a solution of water and mild laundry detergent. Do not immerse the components
in water. Dry hardware with a clean cloth and hang to air dry. Do not speed dry with heat. Excessive accu-
mulation of dirt, paint or other foreign matter may prevent proper function of the components, and, in severe
cases can weaken them. Questions concerning component conditions and cleaning should be directed to
MSA.
4.2 Maintenance and Service
Equipment which is damaged or in need of maintenance must be tagged as “UNUSABLE” and removed
from service. Corrective maintenance (other than cleaning) and repair, such as replacement of elements,
must be performed by the MSA factory. Do not attempt field repairs.
The moving parts of snaphooks and carabiners may require periodic lubrication. Use a lightweight low
viscosity penetrant oil that has good resistance to temperature extremes, moisture, and corrosion. Do not
over-lubricate. Wipe off excess oil with a clean, dry cloth. Follow the lubricant manufacturer’s instructions.
4.3 Storage
Store the rope grab subsystem in a cool, dry and clean place out of direct sunlight. Avoid areas where heat,
moisture, light, oil, and chemicals (or their vapors) or other degrading elements may be present. Equipment
which is damaged or in need of maintenance should not be stored in the same area as usable equipment.
Heavily soiled, wet, or otherwise contaminated equipment should be properly maintained (e.g. dried and
cleaned) prior to storage. Prior to using equipment which has been stored for long periods of time, a Formal
Inspection should be performed by a competent person.

17
Inspection
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
5 Inspection
5.1 Inspection Frequency
The rope grab subsystem must be inspected by the user before each use. Additionally, it must be inspected
by a competent person other than the user at intervals of no more than six months.
The competent person inspection is referred to as Formal Inspection.
5.2 Procedure for Inspection
Perform the following steps in sequence. If in doubt about any inspection point, consult MSA or a competent
person who is qualified to perform Formal Inspection.
(1) Inspect the rope grab subsystem labels to verify that they are present and legible. Check the Formal
Inspection Grid to be sure a Formal Inspection has been performed within the last six months. If any
labels are missing or illegible, remove the rope grab from use and mark it as “UNUSABLE” until
destroyed.
(2) Inspect all fabric (fibrous) parts, including the rope, webbing and stitching. Look for discoloration,
broken ends of yarns, fuzziness, fraying, unsplicing, unlaying, kinking, knotting, broken or pulled
stitches, excessive soiling, abrasion, alteration, needed lubrication, excessive lubrication, excessive
aging, and excessive wear.
(3) Inspect all metallic parts for evidence of damage, alteration, and missing parts.
Inspect snaphooks for deformation, fractures, cracks, corrosion, deep pitting, burrs, sharp edges,
cuts, deep nicks, loose parts, and evidence of excessive heat or chemical exposures.
Inspect snaphook function by cycling their unlocking, opening, closing, and locking features several
times. Gates must automatically close and snugly seat against the nose. The locking mechanism
must retain the gate tip within 1/8 inch (3 mm) of the nose when finger pressure is firmly applied to
the gate in any direction. Inspect for weak springs, loose rivets, and bending of the gate or lock.
(4) Inspect all plastic parts (i.e. labels) for cuts, broken parts, alteration, excessive wear, missing parts,
and loose parts. (Labels are to be additionally checked in accordance with Step 1 above.) Inspect for
evidence of burns, excessive heat, and chemical attack.
(5) Inspect each component and subsystem of the complete system in accordance with the associated
manufacturer’s instructions.
(6) After inspection, mark or punch out the inspection tag to indicate a complete formal inspection was
completed.
5.3 Corrective Action
When inspection reveals signs of inadequate maintenance, the rope grab subsystem must be immediately
removed from service and marked as “UNUSABLE” until destroyed or subjected to corrective maintenance
by the user’s organization. Damage, excessive wear, malfunction, and aging are generally not repairable.
If there is any question as to repairability, contact MSA or a service center authorized in writing by MSA
before further use of the product.
CAUTION
Beware of rapid degradation of polypropylene ropes.
WARNING
Only MSA or parties with written authorization from MSA may make repairs to the rope grab. DO
NOT alter or misuse the equipment.

18
Inspection
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
5.4 Inspection Log
5.4.1 Inspection Diagram
Model No.: Inspector:
Serial No.: Inspection Date:
Date Made: Disposition:
Comments:
1 Rope Grab 5 Labels
2 Snap Hook 6 Carabiner
3 Stitching 7 Thimble
4 Webbing 8 Rope (Splice)
34
1
2
5
4
1
5
8
67

19
Inspection
Rope Grab Subsystem
US
Fig. 4 Fall Arrester (Rope Grab) with Lanyard and Shock Absorber
1 Rope Grab Assembly 4 Labels
2 Web Lanyard 5 Connector
3 Shock Absorber
12 35
4

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