Undoubtedly, a personal fall protection mechanism is just as strong as its ingredients. It is important to select the right harness anchor point for the system, as this is going to protect the individuals and the workers from fall hazards. So, it must be known what it is that qualifies for the right anchorage point. The parameters are defined in Section 1910.66 in Appendix C by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It speaks of anchorages which can attach itself to fall arrest equipment and is capable of supporting approximately 5000 pounds per person attached.
This type of anchorage must be strong and rigid and there must not be a deflection which is greater than 1 mm on the application of 2250 pounds.
Selection of a Harness Anchor Point:
The Construction Safety Council has stated that the structural requirements may vary as per the approach which is used during the selection of a harness anchor point. For e.g. a requirement of positioning systems is that all anchor points are capable of supporting 3000 pounds. In case of engineered anchor points, an anchorage needs to be strong enough to be capable of being able to bear the impact of twice the impact load. This calculation must be determined by an educated person, of course. This factor of two impact is much acceptable under the regulations of OSHA. It is noteworthy that OSHA does not make any distinction between permanent and temporary anchor points and the requirements in case both are same.
When choosing a harness anchor point, the most important point is that it should be strongest. Steel serves as the best material. Wood can be used as a temporary solution but it must be certified by an engineer. A qualified specialist must inspect the anchor bolts as well as the plate washers and through bolts. Each and every equipment used must be carefully inspected for its load bearing capacity be it beam clamps, imbeds, turnbuckles or eyebolts.
5 Tips While Using Harness Anchor Points Are:
Avoid misuse of rebar snap hooks – One should know the gate strength of the hooks and make a note that some hooks have two stress points which must align with the strongest points of the hook.
Inappropriate anchorage connections – At the time of selecting a lanyard, it is noteworthy that most lanyards are not designed to be wrapped on itself.
Insufficient anchor strength – In short, the harness anchor must be strong to support the individual wearing it. One must test the anchor strength whether it is able to provide desired support.
Improper fit equipment – Often, the equipment is in good condition but it is not worn properly. Therefore, it presents a hazard to its users. For example, if one wears gear loosely, it introduces excess potential energy and if a fall occurs, the same converts into kinetic energy.
Poorly designed horizontal lifelines – If this is not designed properly, it can lead to overloading of the anchorage structure. Also, it can cause a person who has fallen to hit the ground owing to increased displacement of the anchorage system.
While we have spoken about the do’s, here are some don’ts to keep in mind. These make unsuitable anchor points and one must avoid it anyhow. The below list includes items that must not be used as harness anchor points for a fall protection system:
Ladders and Rungs
Light Fixtures
Standard Railings
Wiring Harnesses
Fans
Roofstacks
Any item that does not meet OSHA structural load requirement
Conclusion
With every passing day, technology is bringing newer solutions as regards the harness anchor points. It is up to the employer to decide what is the best choice, in consultation and with the guidance provided by an engineer.
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