Page 13 - Petzl-catalog-pro-2018

General principles for work at height

Impact force
A fall arrest system allows the impact force Example for 80 kg
experienced by the user to be limited.
It is typically composed of an energy absorber JANE or PROGRESS lanyard Lanyard with
that tears in order to limit the forces over a specific without energy absorber ABSORBICA-I or Y
stopping distance. energy absorber
A dynamic rope lanyard has a low capacity
for energy absorption. Its use requires great
precautions: reducing the potential fall distance
and staying in a work position below the anchor.
A webbing lanyard or a cable, with no capacity for
energy absorption, can not be used to arrest a fall.

Fc < 6 kN
Fc > 6 kN
Fc > 6 kN
Fc < 6 kN Fc > 6 kN Fc > 6 kN Fc < 6 kN
Fc < 6 kN

Clearance
Clearance is the minimum amount of clear space
below the user that prevents the user from hitting
an obstacle in case of a fall.
Clearance takes into account:
- the user's weight
- the length of the fall
- the tearing length of the energy absorber Clearance Clearance
disregarded
- the average height of the user
- a safety margin of 1 meter
Clearance value
The tearing length of the energy absorber,
depending on the the fall, can only be known based
on the manufacturer's information; this is why a
clearance estimate is suggested in the Instructions
for Use for each fall arrest device.
To learn more about calculating clearance,
see the technical information available at
Petzl.com

Anticipating the means of rapid evacuation Information is non-exhaustive. Refer to the other pages as well as to the Instructions for Use and technical manuals. Technical training is essential.
• Limiting the effects of inert suspension:
In case of a fall where the worker loses consciousness or is
incapacitated, inert suspension in the harness presents a mortal
danger requiring an urgent response. Work teams must be equipped
and trained to quickly evacuate an injured team member.
• Evacuating a victim without assistance:
Procedures for evacuating workers should be determined whenever
a new worksite is established.
Releasable systems can be created during installation of working ropes
to allow evacuation from below.
Working alone must be prohibited: a worker may find him/herself alone
at height, but at least one person trained in evacuations should be
present and equipped on site.

Tetragon Distributors Inc.
sales@tetragon.ca www.tetragon.ca
905-828-9803