There are three basic types of lifelines:
1) vertical
2) horizontal
3) retractable
All lifelines must be inspected daily to ensure that they are
- free of cuts, burns, frayed strands, abrasions, and other defects or signs of damage
- free of discolouration and brittleness indicating heat or chemical exposure.
1) Vertical Lifelines
Vertical lifelines must comply with the current edition of the applicable CSA standard and the following minimum requirements:
- Only one person at a time may use a vertical lifeline.
- A vertical lifeline must reach the ground or a level above ground where the worker can safely exit.
- A vertical lifeline must have a positive stop to prevent the rope grab from running off the end of the lifeline.
Vertical lifelines are typically 16-millimetre (5/8-inch) synthetic rope (polypropylene blends).
2) Horizontal Lifelines
The following requirements apply to any horizontal lifeline system:
- The system must be designed by a professional engineer according to good engineering practice.
- The design can be a standard design or specifically engineered for the site.
The design for a horizontal lifeline system must
- clearly indicate how the system is to be arranged, including how and where it is to be anchored
- list and specify all required components
- clearly state the number of workers that can safely be attached to the lifeline at one time
- spell out instructions for installation, inspection, and maintenance
- specify all of the design loads used to design the system.
The system must be installed, inspected, and maintained in accordance with the professional engineer’s design. Before each use, the system must be inspected by a professional engineer or competent worker designated by a supervisor. A complete and current copy of the design must be kept on site as long as the system is in use.
3) Retractable Lifelines
Retractable lifelines consist of a lifeline spooled on a retracting device attached to adequate anchorage. Retractable lifelines must comply with CAN/CSAZ259.2.2- M98.
In general, retractable lifelines
- are usually designed to be anchored above the wo rker
- employ a locking mechanism that lets line unwind off the drum under the slight tension caused by a user’s normal movements
- automatically retract when tension is removed, thereby preventing slack in the line
- lock up when a quick movement, such as that caused by a fall, is applied
- are designed to minimize fall distance and the forces exerted on a worker’s body by fall arrest.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding use, including whether a shock absorber is recommended with the system.
Any retractable lifeline involved in a fall arrest must be removed from service until the manufacturer or a qualified testing company has certified it for reuse.
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