Page 41 - Confined Space Training - Student Manual 2021

Fall Restraint Systems

Anchorage
Positioning-device systems must be secured to an anchorage that can support at least three times
the potential impact of a worker’s fall or 5,000 pounds, whichever is greater.

Connectors
Connectors must have a minimum strength of 5,000 pounds. Snap hooks and D-rings must be
proof-tested to a minimum load of 3,600 pounds without deforming or breaking.

Body Support
A body belt is acceptable as part of a positioning-device system. However, it must limit the
arresting force on a worker to 900 pounds and it can only be used for body support. A full-body
harness is also acceptable and must limit the arrest force to 1,800 pounds. Belts or harnesses
must have side D-rings or a single front D-ring for positioning.

User Wear Fit Test Steps
1. Harness snug to allow two fingers between torso and straps
2. Center chest strap approximately 8-10 inches below chin
3. Leg straps tight; will not allow fingers to get between straps and legs
4. User can reach the back-center D-ring be reaching over the shoulder

INSPECTING AND MAINTAINING EQUIPMENT
Each time an entrant uses personal fall-arrest equipment, restraint, or positioning-device system,
the components must be inspected for damage, function, or excessive wear. Replace any
component that appears to be damaged. Do not use a personal fall-arrest system that has
arrested a previous fall, unless a competent person has determined the system is safe to use.

ANSI Z359.2 requires daily inspections of fall protection equipment and anchorages by the
authorized person or user of the equipment as well as yearly inspection by a qualified person,
competent person or competent rescuer. In performing the inspection, items to verify include the
presence and legibility of marking and tags, presence of all integral components of the equipment
and absence of defects and damage.

Snap Hook Inspection
Look for cracks, excessive wear and corrosion. The snap hooks should open easily and close
firmly. Keeper locks must prevent the keeper from opening when closed.

Personnel Hoist Inspection
In certain circumstances workers must utilize personnel hoists to enter confined spaces or work
suspended beside structures. Requirements of personnel hoists are as follows:
• Capacity instructions must be verified per manufacturer
• Must automatically stop and hold the load if the operator relinquishes control
• Device must be OSHA approved for human retrieval

Confined Space Training for Entrants, Attendants & Supervisors 41