Self-retracting lanyard/lifelines (SRL) are extremely important devices for workers in elevated workspaces where mobility and fall protection are required. An SRL fall arrest system can save lives but can also be dangerous when not used properly. You never modify or alter an SRL! It is a serious violation of Berg Group fall protection policy and OSHA standards. Any employee caught altering a piece of fall protection will be immediately removed from the project. It is your responsibility to inspect your fall protection items daily and ensure they meet OSHA safety standards and function as the manufacturer intended it to work. If you have fall protection equipment that does not function correctly or is defective, you need to remove the item from service and report it immediately to your foremen and Berg Safety. Here are some tips which will help.
Safely Using an SRL
- An SRL is to be used as part of a complete fall arrest system.
- You should always be trained on the proper use and selection of an SRL before using. If you are not trained. Speak with your foremen and Berg Safety Coordinator regarding further training.
- Always verify the SRL is designed for your weight (most are designed for a person not weighing more than 310lbs, including tools and equipment). Always check manufacturer recommendation.
- Only one person may be connected to a single SRL at any time.
- Proper selection is key to determining acceptable fall clearance.
- Locking speed can be affected when working in confined spaces such as shifting sand or low-pitched roofs.
- Avoid creating a pendulum situation where you could swing into the ground or other objects. A good rule of thumb is to use a 2 to 1 ratio. Whatever the height is above you, only travel half that distance either way.
- A clear path is required to arrest a fall.
- Additional precautions maybe required when working in hazardous environments (heat, extreme cold, sharp edges, corrosive chemicals, explosive or toxic gasses)
- A rescue plan should always be in place when using fall protection equipment.
Inspection, Service & Storage
- Routinely inspect all components
- Check for loose screws and bent or damaged parts.
- Check for corrosion, cuts or burns.
- Check the connecting hooks or carabiners for damage.
- With each use, pull sharply on the snap hook to verify it locks up.
- Periodically clean the housing with water and mild detergent
- Clean the lifeline with water and mild detergent and air dry. Do not dry with heat. Excessive dirt and contaminant build-up can cause the SRL to malfunction.
- Do not disassemble the SRL or lubricate any of the parts. Always have it serviced by an authorized service center.
- Store the SRL in a cool, dry, and clean environment, away from direct sunlight. Thoroughly inspect SRL after prolonged storage.
- Always follow manufacturers recommendation when cleaning and storing
- If a subject falls, immediately take SRL out of service. If the fall indicator has deployed, return it to the manufacture.
SRLs can save your life if they are used correctly and not altered! Don’t put you life at risk by altering or not inspecting your fall protection.
