FallTech 8447A - Manual (Page 2)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. DESCRIPTION
2. APPLICATION
2.1 Purpose
2.2
Fall Arrest
2.3 Restraint
2.4 Work Positioning
2.5 Suspension
2.6 Rescue
2.7 Application Limits
3. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Capacity
3.2
Compatibility of Components
3.3 Making Connections
3.4 Anchorage Strength
4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
4.1 Inspection
4.2 Plan for the Application
4.3 Clear Fall Distance
4.4 Swing Fall
4.5 Captive Pin Installation
4.6 Carabiner Instructions
4.7 Attaching the Carabiner to Anchorage
4.8 Attach a Subsystem
4.8.1 Polyester Rope Connections
5. SPECIFICATIONS
6. MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
7. INSPECTION
7.1 Inspection Procedures
8. MARKING
APPENDIX A – Table 1, List of Acronyms, Figures 1 – 9, Inspection
Record
1. DESCRIPTION
FallTech® carabiners are forged steel or aluminum connector components with a normally closed gate which is opened to allow connection to
other components. The gate automatically closes and locks when released. The gate will remain closed and locked until deliberately opened. Some
models are equipped with an optional captive pin, to isolate attached hardware components and avoid contact with the gate. Carabiners are
available in three broad size categories, Compact, Medium and Large. See Table 1 in Appendix A (all figure and table references hereafter are to
Appendix A). See Figure 1.
A list of acronyms used in fall protection and fall arrest is provided in Appendix A.
For purposes of this manual, the carabiners may be referred to as the connector, the equipment, or the unit.
2. APPLICATION
2.1 Purpose: The carabiners covered in this manual are intended as connector components in Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS). Other
applications are Restraint, Work Positioning, Personnel Riding Systems, Suspension and Rescue Systems. See Figure 2.
2.2
Personal Fall Arrest Systems: The carabiner may be used as a component of a PFAS. A PFAS is an assembly of components and subsystems used
to arrest a person in a free fall, and will typically include an anchorage, an energy absorbing connecting subsystem, either a Shock Absorbing
Lanyard (SAL) or a Self‐Retracting Device (SRD) or a fall arrestor (rope grab) or lifeline, or any suitable combination, connected to the dorsal D‐ring
on a Full Body Harness (FBH). Maximum permissible free fall is 6’.
2.3
Restraint: Restraint systems are designed to restrain the user from reaching a fall hazard and typically include an FBH and a restraint lanyard or
restraint line. Vertical free fall is not permitted.
2.4 Work Positioning: Work Positioning systems are an assembly of components, subsystems and connectors to partially support and stabilize a
worker at an elevated work location and allow the user free use of both hands.
The system shall be secured to an anchorage capable of supporting at least twice the potential impact load of an employee’s fall or 3,000 lbs.,
whichever is greater. Each work positioning system installation must be independently capable of supporting these loads. Work positioning systems
allow a maximum 24” of free fall.
2.5 Suspension: Suspension systems typically include body support and a back‐up PFAS with an FBH, with a suspension line and bosun’s seat
connected via a carabiner.
2.6 Rescue: Rescue systems typically include an FBH, and a specialized set of equipment to rescue a worker after a fall event.
2.7 Application Limits: Take action to avoid sharp edges, abrasive surfaces, and thermal, electrical and chemical hazards. Consider system
requirements when making attachments.
DO NOT use the carabiners to hoist tools or materials.
3. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Capacity: The capacity of the carabiners in Specifications is listed as 425 lbs. (193 kg).
NOTE: To maintain ANSI Z359 compliance, limit total user weight to no more than 310 lbs., (140.6 kg), including clothing, tools, etc.
No more than one PFAS may be connected to one anchorage at one time.
3.2
Compatibility of Components: FallTech equipment is designed for use with compatible components and subsystems only. Substitutions or
replacements made with non‐approved components or subsystems may jeopardize compatibility of equipment and may affect the safety and
reliability of the complete system. Connectors are considered to be compatible with connecting elements when they have been designed to work
together in such a way that their sizes and shapes do not cause their gate mechanisms to inadvertently open. Contact
FallTech if you have any
questions about compatibility. Connectors (hooks, carabiners, and D‐rings) must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbs. (22 kN). Connectors
must be compatible with the anchorage or other system components. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Non‐compatible connectors
may unintentionally disengage. Connectors must be compatible in size, shape, and strength. Self‐locking snap hooks and carabiners are required by
ANSI Z359 and OSHA.
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