Page 34 - OHS, March 2020

FALL PROTECTION
Next Generation Fall Protection Equipment Makes Work at Height Safer than Ever
Manufacturers are making fall protection equipment
that is not only stronger, but also lighter than ever before. BY PAT FURR
These are some exciting times in the world of work at height. Modern fall protection equipment and systems allow workers to perform their jobs with more mobility, greater comfort, and most importantly, with a higher degree of safety. Manufacturers are making fall pro- tection equipment that is not only stronger, but also lighter than ever before. Until recently, strength and weight were diametrically opposed, but design inno- vations and the use of modern materials are resulting in gear that is stronger pound for pound than any- thing we’ve had in the past.
The Engineering Revolution in
Fall Protection Equipment
With the assistance of computer aided design (CAD), engineers can analyze high stress points on equip- ment and determine the required cross section, shape, and material requirements for virtually any new de- sign. Gone are the days of solely relying on destructive dynamic and static pull testing of design prototypes. In the past, this strategy required the designers to fol- low a “trial and error” product development process, adjusting the design until satisfactory results were
achieved. This slowed down the development, drove up research and development costs, and seldom ac- counted for eccentric loads that can now be evalu- ated with the use of CAD. With the ability to design equipment with precise and predetermined strengths and performance characteristics, while using modern lightweight materials, the designers are able to save weight by not over-engineering equipment where it is not needed.
Reduced Weight Means Higher Compliance
From the Authorized Person’s point of view, one of the most important factors is weight of the equipment. When harness mounted, self-retracting lifelines first came to market, they were pretty heavy. For all the convenience and added safety they provided, workers were reluctant to use them due to their added weight. Modern materials such as metal alloys and advanced synthetic fibers allow manufacturers to reduce the weight of equipment substantially while still provid- ing the required strength.
Modern Synthetic Fibers
We can very easily see and feel the improvements in our lighter, stronger hardware pieces, but just as im- portant are the softlines and woven safety gear made from modern synthetic fibers such as Technora and Dyneema. These products are now much safer due to their increased resistance to cuts and abrasions. This is an important consideration when working near leading edges that may have a swing fall or other abrasive hazard.
Pre-Engineered Systems
We’re also seeing design innovations in the area of pre-engineered systems that can be installed by the Competent Person without the need for a Qualified Person in house. Three such systems are discussed below—these are among the most popular types with broad applicability that you might consider for your own workplace.
Horizontal Lifelines. Temporary horizontal life- lines (HLL) can be used in many situations both as a fall arrest system as well as a fall restraint anchor. These are designed to be very easy to set up and take down. These HLLs are typically delivered as a system along with comprehensive instructions for use that
28 Occupational Health & Safety | MARCH 2020
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