Keeping up with changes in fall protection

Early in my career, I worked for a safety equipment company and built a territory primarily focused on contractors. As a result, I became very versed in all things fall protection.

That was years ago, and I rarely teach on the topic of fall protection anymore. I still consider myself a subject matter expert on the topic, but much has changed.

For those familiar with ANSI, you know that ANSI dictates the performance requirements to which fall protection equipment and personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) are manufactured. The two standards have been the A10 and the Z359 standards. The Z359 standards have changed over the years, and with these changes, equipment is being manufactured differently.

I would like to focus on self-retracting lifelines, now commonly referred to as self-retracting devices (SRLs/SRDs). These are devices that, in the event of a fall, can reduce both fall distances and impact forces on the body. They were designed specifically for overhead use but changed over time to include horizontal applications. Since that occurred, much has been learned and both the Z359 standards and how the devices are manufactured have changed once again.

It is a bit confusing, but some equipment is “grandfathered” in for use and other equipment is now obsolete. It is important to check the dates on your equipment to make sure that it meets current standards or if it needs to be removed from service. Any SRL/SRD manufactured prior to 2012 is now obsolete.

To make it simple, the devices manufactured today follow the ANSI 359.1-2022 standards and will contain a label that says either Class 1 or Class 2. Class 1 is designed specifically for overhead use. Class 2 can be connected anywhere, pending a hazard assessment. In addition, D-ring extenders, standard or shock-absorbing, shall not be used for any Class 2, horizontal application.

It is important to keep up with the changes, especially for those of us who live in the safety realm. I follow 3M fall protection and their updates. They are a great resource and make some of the best equipment in the world. Pick your provider and partner with them to ensure that your fall protection program and practices are effective.