Every week, employers lose approximately $1 billion. The money goes to employees injured on the job and/or their medical care providers. The majority of these payments go to workers injured when they fell. Many of these injuries and fatalities could have been avoided if the employees had worn some form of safety device such as a self retracting lifeline.
The Situation
Workers who are employed on construction projects often find themselves “on the edge.” Since the leading edge (platform, deck or roof)) of a site can change frequently, it is in the best interests of everyone if the workers wear proper protection. Wearing a safety device cannot stop falls, but it can prevent a worker from free falling to a platform or the ground below and, perhaps to his or her death. In such situations, employees need to consider wearing self-retracting lifelines.
What Are Self-Retracting Lifelines?
A retractable lifeline is a piece of equipment that acts to protect workers when a fall occurs. It is also known as a:
- Fall protection lanyard
- Fall limiter
- Personal fall limiter
- Retractable lanyard
- Retractable Lifeline
- SRL (self retracting lifeline)
- Sala Block
- Seatbelt
- Vertical Lifeline
- Yo-yo
Whatever you refer to it as, it serves a singular purpose – to protect workers who trip, fall or are inadvertently pushed into open space. They are viable, alternative connective devices, used in place of shock-absorbing lanyards.
Why Choose SRLs?
During a slip and/or fall, the SRL device locks. This stops the employee from falling for an extended distance. In fact, lifelines of this type stop a free fall within 2 feet even though the line itself may be anywhere from 6 to 200 feet long. With this short activation and arresting distance, SRLS are capable of reducing the potential risk of hitting either the ground or any obstructions between the fall area (or platform) and the lower level. Moreover, they simplify a rescue after a fall. This is one reason why these are the preferred lifeline for fall clearance of less than 18.5 feet.
Inspection and Maintenance
Equipment, no matter how good may be rendered ineffective through neglect and poor maintenance. Before you use it, always, inspect the housing or case and check the operation of the device. Look for
- Loose fasteners
- Bent, distorted or cracked components
- Worn, malfunctioning or damaged parts
- Improper retraction – perform a test for tension and retract ability
It is also important to clean it from time to time. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to do so. Follow this up by drying it with a towel.
A Self Retracting Lifeline
Construction work is dangerous. If you walk the leading edge with regularity, you know what could happen. Rather than place yourself in danger unnecessarily, consider your options. Make the smart decision and wear a self retracting lifeline. Your family and other loved ones will be glad you did.