SAFETY
CNB/P/11.060 is a coordination document associated with EN 360:2002. It outlines the testing criteria for the use of SRLs in leading edge applications, specifi cally how SRLs must carry evidence of dynamic performance, dynamic strength, and static strength within a leading edge application with the retractable lifeline stressed over an edge. Adherence to this coordination document and the testing criteria within it are central to mitigating the potential risk of lines fraying or being cut in the event of a fall.
FIRST PORT OF CALL: HIERARCHY OF FALL PROTECTION Typically, fall protection is associated with saving a worker’s life in the event of a fall. And while this isn’t strictly wrong, it’s not the ideal scenario either. T e hierarchy of fall protection helps to prevent a worker ever getting into a situation where they could fall by prioritising various applications from “most preferred” to “least preferred”. Leading edge applications will inevitably mean working in fall arrest – the “least preferred” option. It’s not something to take lightly and should always be a last resort, taken only once the fi rst three options outlined below have been explored. First is hazard elimination. T is means
the removal of the hazard by designing it out wherever possible. It’s the “most preferred” safest option. If there’s no hazard, there’s no fall. Second is collective (or passive) fall
prevention. T is defi nes products that prevent access to a fall hazard. A guardrail, for instance, acts as a physical barrier between the worker and the hazard. T ird is fall restraint. If working in fall
restraint then there is no barrier between the user and the fall hazard. Instead, they’re using fall protection equipment – harness, lanyard, and anchor point – that will not allow them to reach the hazard. For example, a worker who is working in fall restraint may use a 6m lanyard to connect to an anchor point at least 7m away from the fall hazard. Fall arrest is the fi nal option. T is
defi nes equipment designed to catch (or “arrest”) the worker in the event of a fall. T is is the “least preferred” option because arresting a fall exposes the worker to signifi cant forces, putting them at risk of physical harm. Rescuing a fallen worker (which will be tackled a little later) can also be a challenging and potentially dangerous process.
Working at height is often unavoidable: using specially designed equipment helps mitigate some of the dangers
Let’s take a look at some key things to consider if – after following this hierarchy – edge working remains the only option available.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT HARNESS FOR THE JOB First things fi rst, all harnesses on the market should be compliant in accordance with EN 361:2002. T at’s a given. But a good harness – one that’s comfortable, doesn’t restrict workers’ movement and mitigates impact on the user’s body in the event of a fall – goes beyond mere compliance. Fit is fundamental to achieving this. Leg and shoulder straps should be easily adjustable for a comfortable, snug fi t. T e user’s fi nished position in a fall scenario should be heads up and slightly forward- leaning. T is is important for correct distribution of load through the leg straps and load through the body, such that the spine and pelvis are being properly supported and protected. In a fall event, a good quality, well-fi tted harness can help limit the eff ects of suspension trauma/ syncope (more on that later). While incredibly important, fi t is just one aspect. Fall protection harnesses are highly engineered pieces of kit and many design features dictate performance, such as appropriate materials for improved fi t and speed of donning, or how dirt may aff ect the webbing (to name just a few). If in doubt about which harness is most appropriate for you and/or the job at hand then consult with a reputable manufacturer.
DO NOTHING WITHOUT TRAINING Making sure your workers have completed a comprehensive training programme
is absolutely essential. Not only do employers have a responsibility to provide suitable information, instruction and training for their employees, but training also gives those working at height the confi dence, knowledge and skills required to carry out their work safely and effi ciently. It will teach operatives how to properly use, care and maintain their equipment as well. For many in the power sector, having
followed the hierarchy of fall protection, edge working remains an unavoidable reality. If that’s the case then the steps taken before any work occurs are vital. So, stop, think and ask these three questions: have my workers received the very best training for the specifi c job at hand? Am I up to speed with and implementing the very latest legislation and best practice processes? And is the equipment I’m using not only compliant with the relevant legislation, but also designed specifi cally for work in leading edge applications? Finally, remember that you don’t have to tackle all of this alone. Any reputable fall protection provider is readily available for consultation on any of the above. Reputable fi rms will be willing to help guide you on implementing the very best and safest work at height solutions. And at no other time is that more important than when working in leading edge applications.
Tim Bissett is technical manager for Fall Protection at MSA Safety.
www.msasafety.com
www.engineerlive.com 39
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