Instructions for Use
hazard also increases as the initial (before fall) length of extended
line is increased and as the initial angle which the line makes with the
vertical is increased. For example, if the initial extended line length
is 10 ft (3m), the drop at the bottom of the pendulum swing would be
1.3 ft (0.4m) This is in addition to the line extension due to the devices
internal shock absorption which may be as much as 3.3. ft (1m). The
total vertical fall distance would then be as much as 4.6 ft (1.4m) If,
however, 50 ft (15.2m) of cable is initially extended at a 30-degree
angle with the vertical, then a drop at the pendulum bottom of 6.7 ft
(2m) would result. In this example, adding the 3.3 ft (1m) of cable
extension due to internal shock absorption of the device, the total
vertical fall distance could be as much as 10 ft (3m).
Minimize swing falls by working as close to the anchorage point as
possible (see Figure 5). Do not permit a swing fall if injury could
occur. Swing falls will significantly increase the clearance required
when a self-retracting lifeline or other variable length connecting
subsystem is used.
5) CHEMICAL HAZARDS:
Acidic, alkaline, or other environments with harsh substances may
damage the webbing or synthetic rope (if equipped) and hardware
elements of this SRL. Polyester webbing is more resistant to attack
by acids but is subject to degradation by alkaline or neutral pH
environments. If working in a chemically aggressive environment, an
SRL that uses a cable lifeline is generally recommended. When
working in the presence of chemicals, more frequent inspection of
the SRL is required.
6) HEAT:
Do not use SRL’s that utilize a web lifeline in environments with
temperatures greater than 185°F (85°C). Protect the lanyard when
used near welding, metal cutting, or other heat producing activities.
Sparks may damage the line webbing or rope and reduce its strength.
7) CORROSION:
Do not expose the device to corrosive environments for prolonged
periods. Organic substances and salt water are particularly corrosive
to metal parts. When working in a corrosive environment more
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frequent inspection, cleaning, and drying of the SRL is required. For
the most severe environments the sealed SRL is recommended. See
Care and Inspection sections for cleaning and inspection details.
8) ELECTRICAL HAZARDS:
Use extreme caution when working near energized electrical sources.
Metal hardware on the SRL, the lifeline itself (on cable units), and on
other components connected to it will conduct electric current.
Maintain a safe working distance [preferably at least 10’ (3m)] from
electrical hazards.
9) MOVING MACHINERY:
When working near moving machinery parts (e.g. conveyors, rotating
shafts, presses, etc.), make sure that loose equipment is secured.
Maintain a safe working distance from machinery that could entangle
clothing, the lifeline, the harness, or other components connected to
it.
10) SHARP EDGES AND ABRASIVE SURFACES:
Do not expose web lifelines to sharp edges or abrasive surfaces that
could cut, tear or abrade and weaken the fibers. If working around
sharp edges and abrasive surfaces is unavoidable use heavy
padding or other protective barriers to prevent direct contact. An
energy absorbing component can sometimes be added in-line to
further protect the worker. Compatibility and total fall distance must
be considered if this is done. Contact Reliance/Piranha-Safety before
using an in-line energy absorbing component or lanyard with
an SRL. NOTE on Leading Edge SRL: Although this model provides
additional protection from falls occurring over edges, protection
against cutting must be provided when working near extremely
sharp edges such as sheared, cold rolled, or flame cut steel, or
rough cast edge concrete. Edge protection is not required over
edges such as hot rolled steel, steel decking, chamfered concrete,
or wood.
11) WEAR AND DETERIORATION:
Any SRL which shows signs of excessive wear, deterioration or
aging, must be removed from use and marked “UNUSABLE” until
destroyed. See detailed inspection procedures.
12) IMPACT FORCES:
Any SRL that has been subjected to the forces of arresting a fall
must be immediately removed from service and marked as
“UNUSABLE” until recertified or replaced. RELIANCE/PIRANHA-
SAFETY SRL’s have impact load indicators built into the anchorage
component on top of the SRL that facilitate inspection for fall
loading.
IMPORTANT: When working with tools,
materials, or in high temperature
environments, ensure that associated fall protection equipment can
withstand high temperatures, or provide protection for those items.
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