7 Tips For Using Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs)

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7 Tips for Self-Retracting Lifelines
When, Where and How to Choose and Use SRLs

For many workers, working on top of an elevated surface or structure is a daily actuality or eventuality. It’s also some of the most hazardous work on the planet. The following guide aims to bring awareness to the importance of selecting appropriate fall arrest solutions.

Here are 7 tips for where, when, and how self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) should be deployed for vertical fall arrest protection.

➀ Understand the Hierarchy of Fall Protection

The following 4-part hierarchy is a recommended starting point to determine which approach and fall protection system is best for the job – and the worker.

  1. Elimination: Obviously, this is the preferred solution to all fall hazards. Although elimination is not always possible, don’t overlook the fact that there is some control in identifying potential hazards and adjusting processes and procedures accordingly.
  2. Passive Fall Protection: This involves the use of physical barriers, such as guardrails, around unprotected edges. The Occupational Hazard and Safety Administration (OSHA) recommends that guardrail systems be used to prevent falling objects that can pose a hazard to workers.
  3. Fall Restraint Systems: Using personal protective equipment (PPE) to restrict the worker’s range of access, fall restraint systems are erected in an attempt to prevent the worker from physically traveling to the fall hazard.
  4. Fall Arrest Systems: These work to stop the fall within acceptable force and clearance margins, leaving the worker to be rescued according to Safety Program procedures.

➁ Recognize When and When to Use Self-Retracting Lifelines

Replacing lanyards and rope grabs with self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) as the safety standard is a growing workplace trend. Like those two fall protection methods, SRLs are intended to reduce workplace injuries and fatalities from falls.

SRLs, however, are different in many ways than lanyards and rope grabs. They are fast-acting fall arresters that limit free-fall distance and decelerate distance and fall arrest forces, while some even allow the user freedom of movement. In addition, SRLs typically last longer, retract on movement, offer faster lock-on and are easier to store than lanyards and rope grabs.

➂ Know How SRLs Work to Arrest Falls

SRLs offer dependable fall protection and are specifically designed to allow the wearer to have hands-free fall protection. Here’s how they work:

  • A synthetic line or metallic cable is attached to the worker’s harness.
  • This cable automatically extends and retracts from a floor or overhead anchored (stationary unit) while the worker moves about the jobsite.
  • In the event of a sudden fall, the SRL locks on to the anchored unit, arresting the force of the fall.
  • An energy absorption system automatically kicks in to limit the impact of the force on the worker’s person.

➃ Consider the Environment & Application

Environment and application are key to selecting the proper SRL. It’s important to consider where it will be used (the environment) and what the worker will be doing while using it (the application).

For the environment, if the wearer is working somewhere with corrosive hazards, such as a coastal location or petrochemical site, then risks such as accelerated corrosion for metal parts or potential degradation for plastics and composites must be considered.

Application can also play a crucial part in determining the proper SRL for the job. For example, working with solar panels on a rooftop or servicing an aircraft wing require care in order to prevent the fall protection equipment from damaging the surrounding products and surfaces. A self-retracting lifeline constructed of synthetic webbing will do a better job of minimizing the risk of such damage. On the other hand, the presence of sharp edges or abrasive materials that could sever a synthetic fabric line will require a robust SRL solution.

➄ Determine the Type of Anchor

In order to arrest a fall, an SRL must be anchored to a strong and stable point. Understanding the anchor point is critical to making an appropriate product choice.

Things to consider include:

  • Type of anchor
  • Location of the anchor
  • Distance between the anchor and the working point
  • Distance of the anchor from the edge/fall hazard
  • Fall clearance (allowing enough space for a fall to happen in the safest way possible)

Here are the two most common types of anchors, along with their key benefits:

Overhead Anchor: This is the standard way to attach an self-retracting lifeline, where the SRL attaches to a carabiner or point above the workspace. This approach is traditionally used when there’s been an investment in infrastructure.

Key Benefit: There’s less distance to fall in the event of a slip or trip.

Foot-level Anchor: In this popular approach, the anchor is positioned at foot- or deck-level with the SRL attached to it. It should be noted that with this type of anchor, the SRL will be at a 90-degree angle to the fall should there be a slip or trip. On many jobsites, the edge of the work area, such as a rooftop or other structure, can be sharp. So, it’s essential to understand that if a foot-level anchor is used, your SRL may need to be rated for leading edge work.

Key Benefit: This type of anchor is easy to use because there’s no need to lift anything overhead.

➅ Consider How to Maximize Both Safety & Value

SRLs are also inherently versatile and may be used across a wide range of industries, as well as in horizontal, overhead and leading-edge applications. From vertical access via pylons, turbines, water towers and confined spaces, to loading and maintenance bays, assembly lines, silos, rooftops – and the building and construction industry in general – SRLs help take the guesswork out of equipment selection.

Since fall clearance, which is the minimum vertical distance required between a worker’s feet and a lower level, can vary at different points on the working area, it’s wise to consider using a self-retracting lifeline over another type of fall protection device. That’s because an SRL can accommodate variances while it remains under tension, automatically adjusting the line.

➆ Understand How Quality Design Enhances Lifetime Performance and Reduces Cost

While all products are certified to the same standard, not all SRLs are created equal. Ultimately, the design of an SRL directly impacts safety and service‑life cost.

Entry-level, economy-priced PPE is far less likely to offer the same performance and durability as high-quality, premium-engineered solutions. Reduced upfront costs can lead to a false economy of savings, whereas investing in the best equipment not only protects workers, but also yields lifetime savings such as minimized repair times and maximized product lifespans.

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