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depending on their intended application. ThThe position of the worker’s body while performing certain tasks also has to be taken into account when choosing the appropriate full body harness. ThThe most recent revision of the standard now includes standard iconography in the label pack. These labels show the purpose of each d-ring connection on the harness. As many know, Z359 has 18 chapters. Each is its own standard. Taken together, all the standards are known as the Fall Protection Code. The chapter, or standard, on Self- Retracting Lanyards (SRLs), ANSI/ISEA Z359.14-2021, Safety Requirements for Self-Retracting Devices for Personal Fall Arrest and Rescue Systems, was recently updated and employers, safety managers and others should take notice! New SRL requirements The updates to ANSI/ASSP Z359.14-2021 take effect in August 2023. The update created two different classes and specified their intended uses. The recent updates also introduced3 new requirements for SRLs’ allowed average arresting force (AAF), increasing from 900 lbs. (4 kN) to 1,350 lbs. (6 kN). (Note: Some self- retracting lifeline models may have an AAF of less than 1,350 lbs., yet still meet the ANSI/ASSP Z359.14-2021 standard.) “It is necessary to confirm that the strength of your anchorage is sufficient for the increased values in AAF,” said Willis. “Always check the product label for the actual AAF indicated on the self- retracting lifeline, to validate use with appropriate anchorages.” Willis explained that while safety professionals do need a good working knowledge of the standard, there’s no need to overly complicate the fall-protection product selection process. Manufacturers and suppliers offer very good expert insight when an employer describes the specific application and the work an employee will be performing. “Of course, you want to make sure you understand the limitations of each product,” said Willis. “But those representatives can demystify the process and help guide you through the features a particular full body harness should have for a particular situation.” Summer is arguably the busiest season for construction and other work at heights. For employers who haven’t yet made fall protection a top priority, there’s no time like the present to ensure worker safety. Don’t wait for an OSHA inspection—or a tragedy to happen—before acting. The International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) offers a comprehensive set of information resources about fall protection online at safetyequipment.org/ worker_protections/fall-protection. Diana Jones is the Senior Director of Technical Programs & Development at the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), which is based in Arlington, Va. REFERENCES 1. ohsonline.com/articles/2023/05/03/osha- launches-national-emphasis-program-on-falls. aspx 2. store.assp.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Store/ Product-Details/productId/26525559 3. safetyequipment.org/buyers_guide/fall- protection/ SMALL SCREEN. BIG PICTURE. IT’S TOUGH. IT’S INTUITIVE. AND NOW IT’S CONNECTED. THE ALTAIR IOTM 4 GAS DETECTION WEARABLE. The smart wearable gas detector that provides real-time visibility across your worksites— including workers and workflows—accessible from anywhere. It’s a total hardware and software solution, with out-of-the-box cellular connectivity. Learn more about how the ALTAIR io 4 Gas Detection Wearable can help reduce risk and boost productivity. Request a demo at msasafety.com/io4. 08-6473-MCP / 02.2023 www.ohsonline.com JULY/AUGUST 2023 | Occupational Health & Safety 21