Industrial shops and other types of similar establishments often use an important piece of equipment referred to as a self retracting lifeline. These devices are used to prevent accidental falls. The safety of your employees can depend on whether or not you have one of these lifelines installed in your workplace.
What is a Self-Retracting Lifeline?
This device has the capability to retract and extend automatically. It is anchored overhead. You can use the device to move an object that’s connected to a hoist within a delegated working space and at normal speed. The lifeline always retains a certain amount of tension which helps to minimize accidents that can result from tripping, snapping, or dragging. In the event of a fall, the unit has a break that includes a speed sensor with automatic activation that stops the fall and reduces the forces imposed upon the individual to safe level that prevents potential debilitating injuries.
Various styles, links and configurations are available with a self retracting lifeline. You can find some that range from as small as 6 feet to his long as 175 feet. The length needed is determined by the type of application involved.
Safe Use of an Automatic Lifeline
As fall arrest systems, these self retracting lifelines are used by professionals in various industries who perform dangerous tasks at high elevations. However, they must be used properly to avoid unnecessary accidents and tragedies from occurring.
The safety guidelines should be followed when utilizing a self retracting lifeline:
* Proper installation should occur vertically as opposed to horizontally. A horizontal installation may inhibit the necessary fall distance and lead to catastrophic injuries.
* Self retracting lifelines should be leading edge certified for use at the edge of floors, roofs, decks or upon any working or walking surface that moves or changes as other elements or sections are added to the existing structure.
* Overhead installation should occur with the point of installation located above – an important safety element.
It’s important that professionals learn how to use self retracting lifelines properly in order to avoid unnecessary accidents from occurring that can potentially lead to serious or catastrophic injury, or even death.
