CONNECTING DEVICES
Connecting Devices Defined
Connecting Devices are the link that joins the full body harness to the anchorage and anchorage connector. Connecting devices can consist of Energy Absorbing Lanyards, Self Retracting Devices (SRD's), rope grabs, or retrieval systems. How the specific connection is made depends on whether the worker is equipped for personal fall arrest or work positioning. Positioning Devices A positioning lanyard is designed to be used as part of a system (with a full body harness and anchor- age). The system prevents the user from being exposed to a fall hazard by limiting range of movement towards an area where a fall might occur. Positioning systems also allow users to work hands-free. Positioning lanyards may be fixed length or adjustable, but do not constitute fall protection. As such, if the user is still subject to a potential fall (while using a rebar chain assembly for example), they must also utilize and additional fall protection element. Energy Absorbing Lanyards Also referred to as “energy absorbers” or “shock absorbers.” ANSI defines them as “a component whose primary function is to dissipate energy and limit deceleration forces which the system imposes on the body during fall arrest. Such devices may employ various principles such as deformation, friction, tear- ing of materials, or breaking of stitches to accomplish energy absorption. An energy absorber causes an increase in the deceleration distance. An energy absorber may be borne by the user (personal) or be a part of a horizontal lifeline subsystem or a vertical lifeline subsystem.” A energy absorbing lanyard is appropriate for use over a positioning lanyard if the potential for a fall exists. If the use of a positioning lanyard can prevent the user from being exposed to a fall hazard, it is more appropriate for use.
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