Fall Protection Systems
ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004
ANSI/ASSE A10.32-2004
Fall Protection Systems—
American National Standard
for Construction and
Demolition Operations
A S
S E
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
SAFETY ENGINEERS
The information and materials contained in this publication have been developed from sources believed to be reliable.
However, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) as secretariat of the ANSI accredited A10 Committee or individual committee members accept no legal responsibility for the correctness or completeness of this material or its application
to specific factual situations. By publication of this standard, ASSE or the A10 Committee does not ensure that adherence to
these recommendations will protect the safety or health of any persons, or preserve property.
ANSI®
A10.32-2004
American National Standard
for Construction and Demolition Operations
Fall Protection Systems
Secretariat
American Society of Safety Engineers
1800 East Oakton Street
Des Plaines, Illinois 60018-2187
(847) 699-2929 • www.asse.org
Approved May 3, 2004
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
American
National
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Published Jul y 2004 by
American Society of Safety Engineers
1800 East Oakton Street
Des Plaines, Illinois 60018-2187
(847) 699-2929 • www.asse.org
Copyright © 2004 by the American Society of Safety Engineers
All rights reserved
No part of this publication my be reproduced in any
form, in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of the publisher.
Printed in the United States of America
Foreword
(This Foreword is not a part of American National Standard A10.32-2004.)
This standard is one of a series of safety standards that have been formulated by the Accredited
Standards Committee on Safety in Construction and Demolition Operations, A10. It is expected
that the standards in the A10 series will find a major application in industry, serving as a guide to
contractors, labor, and equipment manufacturers. For the convenience of users, a list of existing
and proposed standards in the A10 series for Safety Requirements in Construction and Demolition
Operations follows.
A10.2
A10.3
A10.4
A10.5
A10.6
A10.7
A10.8
A10.9
A10.10
A10.11
A10.12
A10.13
A10.15
A10.16
A10.17
A10.18
A10.19
A10.20
A10.21
A10.22
A10.23
A10.24
A10.25
A10.26
A10.27
A10.28
A10.29
A10.30
A10.31
A10.32
A10.33
A10.34
A10.35
A10.36
A10.37
A10.38
A10.39
A10.40
A10.41
A10.42
A10.43
A10.44
A10.45
A10.46
A10.47
A10.48
Safety, Health, and Environmental Training (under development)
Powder-Actuated Fastening Systems
Personnel Hoists and Employee Elevators
Material Hoists (under development)
Demolition Operations
Transportation, Storage, Handling, and Use of Commercial Explosives and Blasting Agents
Scaffolding
Concrete and Masonry Construction
Temporary and Portable Space Heating Devices
Personnel and Debris Nets
Excavation
Steel Erection
Dredging
Tunnels, Shafts, and Caissons
Safe Operating Practices for Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Construction
Temporary Floor Holes, Wall Openings, Stairways, and Other Unprotected Edges
Pile Installation and Extraction Operations (under development)
Ceramic Tile, Terrazzo, and Marble Work
Proper Cleaning and Disposal of Contaminated Work Clothing
Rope-Guided and Nonguided Workers’ Hoists
Back Injury Prevention Programs (under development)
Roofing (under development)
Sanitation in Construction (under development)
Emergency Procedures for Construction Sites (under development)
Hot Mix Asphalt Facilities
Work Platforms Suspended from Cranes or Derricks
Aerial Lifts in Construction (under development)
Workplace Security
Digger-Derricks
Fall Protection Systems for Construction Industry Users
Safety and Health Program Requirements for Multi-Employer Projects
Public Protection
High Pressure Hydro Blasting (under development)
Railroad Construction Safety (under development)
Debris Nets
Basic Elements of a Program to Provide a Safe and Healthful Work Environment
Construction Safety and Health Audit Program
Ergonomics in Construction (under development)
Equipment Operator and Supervisor Qualifications and Responsibilities (under development)
Rigging Qualifications and Responsibilities in the Construction Industry
Confined Spaces in Construction (under development)
LockOut TagOut in Construction (under development)
Disaster Response Preparedness for Construction Workers (under development)
Hearing Loss Prevention (under development)
Highway Construction Safety (under development)
Communications Tower Erection (under development)
One purpose of these standards is to serve as guides to governmental authorities having
jurisdiction over subjects within the scope of the A10 Committee standards. If these standards are
adopted for governmental use, the reference of other national codes or standards in individual
volumes may be changed to refer to the corresponding regulations.
Revisions: The A10 Committee welcomes proposals for revisions to this standard. Revisions are
made to the standard periodically (usually five years from the date of the standard) to incorporate
changes that appear necessary or desirable, as demonstrated by experience gained from the
application of the standard. Proposals should be as specific as possible, citing the relevant
paragraph number(s), the proposed wording, and the reason for the proposal. Pertinent
documentation would enable the A10 Committee to process the changes in a more timely manner.
Interpretations: Upon a request in writing to the Secretariat, the A10 Committee will render an
interpretation of any requirement of the standard. The request for interpretation should be clear,
citing the relevant paragraph number(s) and phrased as a request for a clarification of a specific
requirement. Oral interpretations are not provided.
No one but the A10 Committee (through the A10 Secretariat) is authorized to provide any
interpretation of this standard.
Approval: Neither the A10 Committee nor American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
"approves," "certifies," "rates," or "endorses" any item, construction, proprietary device, or
activity.
Appendixes: Appendixes are included in most standards to provide the user with additional
information related to the subject of the standard. Appendices are not part of the approved
standard.
Committee Meetings: The A10 Committee meets twice a year. Persons wishing to attend a
meeting should contact the Secretariat for information.
Standard Approval: This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by the
American National Standards Committee on Safety in Construction and Demolition Operations,
A10. Approval of the standard does not necessarily imply (nor is it required) that all Committee
members voted for its approval. At the time this standard was published, the A10 Committee had
the following members:
Richard King, Chairman
James Tomaseski, Vice Chairman
Timothy R. Fisher, Secretary CSP, ARM, CPEA
Patrick J. Arkins, Assistant Secretary
Organization Represented
Name of Representative
Accident Prevention Corp.
Frank Burg
Michael Serpe
Matthew J. Burkart, PE
Judith Burkhart
David Szuch
Richard Sanner
Robert Renney
Ted P. Sharp
Aegis Corporation
Allegheny Power System
Alstrom Power, Integrated Services
American Federation of Labor and Congress of
Industrial Organizations
American Insurance Services Group
American Society of Safety Engineers
American Subcontractors Association
Asbestos Workers International Union
Associated Builders and Contractors
Associated General Contractors of America, The
Barton-Malow Company
Black & Veatch
Center to Protect Workers’ Rights, The
Chicago Bridge & Iron Company
Clark Construction Group
Cole-Miller Safety Consulting, Inc.
Philip L. Colleran
Construction Users Roundtable, The
ECI Safety Services Co.
Edison Electric Institute
E. I. duPont de Nemours & Company
Elevator Industry Preservation Fund
Gilbane Building Co.
Richard D. Hislop
Institute of Makers of Explosives
International Association of Bridge, Structural,
Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers
International Brotherhood of Boilermakers
Jim E. Lapping, MS, P.E., CSP
Edward Campbell
James G. Borchardt, CSP, CPE
Allen Macenski, CSP, J.D.
A. David Brayton
Luke McFadden
Dante Pulignani, ASP
Terry Lynch
Jim E. Lapping, MS, P.E., CSP
Michael W. Hayslip, P.E.
Anita Drummond
James Brown
Ron Prichard, Ph.D., P.E.
John Gleichman
Richard F. King, CSP
Paul Weida, CSP
Mike McCann
Pete Stafford
James Rhudy
Wallace K. Melvin
Jack Duley
Barry Cole
Steve Miller
Philip L. Colleran, CSP
Ron G. Prichard, Ph.D., P.E.
Anthony Merisola
Patrick Brennan
R. Lee Reed, Jr.
Charles Kelly
Jane Schindewolf
Robert Krzywicki
John Quackenbush
John P. O’Donovan
Carol Murkland
Richard Hislop
Lon D. Santis
J. Christopher Ronay
Frank Migliaccio, Jr.
David Haggerty
Bridget Conner
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
International Safety Equipment Association
International Union of Operating Engineers
International Union of Painters & Allied Trades
Jack L. Mickle & Associates
Laborers International Union of North America
Maryland Occupational Safety & Health
Mechanical Contractors Association of America
National Association of Home Builders
National Association of Railroad Safety
Consultants & Investigators
National Roofing Contractors Association
National Society of Professional Engineers
NEA – The Association of Union Constructors
Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons,
International Association
Daniel M. Paine
Power Consultants, Incorporated
Professional Safety Consultants, Inc.
Property Casualty Insurers Association of America
Ryland Group, Inc., The
Safety and Quality Plus
Scaffolding, Shoring & Forming Institute
Sheet Metal Workers International Association
Sigma Associates, Ltd.
SINCO / SALA
SPA, Incorporated
TIC-The Industrial Company
Turner Construction Company
United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters
United Brotherhood of Carpenters and
Joiners of America
United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and
Allied Workers
U.S. Department of the Army – Corps of Engineers
U.S. Department of Energy
James Tomaseski
Jerry Westerholm
Janice Bradley, CSP
Cristine Fargo
Emmett Russell
Steve Brown
Jim Williams
Jack Mickle, Ph.D.
Scott Schneider
George Macaluso
Roy E. Blades
Mischelle Vanreusel
Peter Chaney
Dennis Langley
Robert Matuga
George Middleton
Lewis Barbe, P.E., CSP, CRSP
Tom Shanahan
Harry Dietz
C.E. Jackson, Jr., P.E.
E. Ross Curtis, P.E., NSPE
William Treharne, P.E.
Wayne Rice
Gerald Ryan
Daniel M. Paine
Barbara Paine
David Goldsmith
S. Jecker
Timothy Palmer, Ph.D., P.E.
John Neil
Bob Masterson, CSP
Ron Lattanzio
Chris Johnson
Jerry Meadors
Gary Batykefer
Charles Austin
A. J. Scardino, Jr.
Daniel Paine
David Denny
Brian Clarke
Stanley D. Pulz
Jessica Pulz
Stephen Gale
Brett Richardson
Dennis Falvey
William Rhoten
Vacant
Robert J. Krul
John Barnhard
Samuel Testerman
Brian Becker
Patrick Finn
Leslie Bermudez
U.S. Department of Labor – OSHA
West Virginia University - Extension Service
Z Con Safety Consultants
ZBD Constructors (Zurn Industries)
Subgroup A10.32 had the following members:
John O’Donovan (Chairman)
Damiel Paine (Liaison)
Harry Anuskiewicz
H. Andrew Batty, Jr.
Michael Bell
Barbara Bielaski
Janice Bradley
Matthew Burkart
Philip Clemmons
J. Nigel Ellis
C.E. Jackson, Jr.
Charles Maresca
Richard Morelle
Craig Neustater
Ron Prichard, Ph.D., P.E.
Tom Shanahan
Camille Villanova
H. Berrien Zettler
Mark Fullen
Brandon Takacs
Ingo Zeise
Greg Thompson
Jeffrey D. Meddin, CSP, CHCM
Contents
SECTION .................................................................................................... PAGE
1.
General.......................................................................................................9
1.1 Scope .................................................................................................9
1.2 Purpose...............................................................................................9
1.3 Application..........................................................................................9
1.4 Resolutions .........................................................................................9
2. Definitions................................................................................................. 10
3. General Requirements .................................................................................. 15
4. Performance Requirements ............................................................................ 16
4.1 Anchorage .......................................................................................... 16
4.2 Fall Arrest.......................................................................................... 17
4.3 Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRL) .............................................................. 17
4.4 Rope Grab.......................................................................................... 17
4.5 Snaphooks and Carabiners ..................................................................... 18
4.6 Lanyards ............................................................................................19
5. Marking Requirements................................................................................. 20
5.1 General Marking Requirements............................................................... 20
5.2 Special Marking Requirements for Individual Components.......................... 20
6. Employer Requirements ............................................................................... 22
6.1 Training............................................................................................. 22
6.2 Rescue ............................................................................................... 22
6.3 Inspection........................................................................................... 23
6.4 Compatibility.....................................................................................24
6.5 C ompetent Person............................................................................. 24
6.6 Hazard Protection.............................................................................. 24
6.7 Job Task ........................................................................................... 24
6.8 Fall Restraint Systems.......................................................................... 24
7. Test Requirements ...................................................................................... 24
7.1 Harness, Belt and Lanyard Performance Test Procedures.............................. 24
7.2 Lifeline Performance Test Procedures.......................................................29
7.3 Rope Grab Performance Test Procedures................................................... 30
7.4 Hardware Test Procedures...................................................................... 31
8. Appendix A..............................................................................................33
Appendix B ..............................................................................................34
Appendix C..............................................................................................35
ANSI A10.32-2004
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
ANSI A10.32 STANDARD FOR PERSONAL FALL PROTECTION
USED IN
CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION OPERATIONS
1. GENERAL
1.1 Scope. This standard establishes
performance criteria for personal fall protection
equipment and systems in construction and
demolition and provides guidelines,
recommendations for their use and inspection. It
includes, but is not limited to; fall arrest, restraint,
positioning, climbing, descending, rescue, escape
and training activities. Exceptions: This standard
does not include lineman’s body belts, pole straps,
window washers belts, chest/waist harnesses, and
sports equipment.
E1.1 The personal fall protection equipment
selected should match the particular work
situation. A qualified or Competent Person
should select the appropriate personal fall arrest,
restraint or positioning equipment based on this
person’s professional evaluation of the work site,
considering work conditions and the nature of the
work performed. Ladder climbing protection
devices are covered in ANSI A14.3.
1.2 Purpose. To provide minimum guidelines to
users and manufacturers of personal fall protection
equipment.
1.3 Application. This standard applies to
E1.3 This standard applies to all users of fall
manufacturers and users of personal fall protection protection equipment ranging in size from
equipment; to those personnel responsible for the individuals to multiple employee companies.
selection, procurement, inspection, use, care and
maintenance of the equipment; and to those
responsible for training and supervision of the
users.
1.4 Resolutions. In order to provide for
superior protection to the user, this standard
permits:
1.4.1 Only full body harnesses shall be used for
fall arrest. The fall arrest attachment point of the
body harness shall be at the center of the user’s
back near shoulder level.
1.4.2 Maximum arresting force imposed on the
user’s body shall not exceed 1,000 lb.
E1.4.2 The maximum arresting force can be
reduced by limiting the free fall distance, or using
a deceleration device (self-retracting lanyard,
shock absorber, or similar component of energyabsorbing equipment as an integral part of the fall
protection system).
1.4.3 All equipment used in a fall protection
system shall be compatible to limit force levels,
maintain system strength, and prevent accidental
disengagement.
E1.4.3 Compatible devices are suitably sized and
configured to properly operate together as a
component part of a fall protection system.
9
ANSI A10.32-2004
1.4.4 The service life of fall protection
equipment manufactured of synthetic fiber shall
be 5 years unless otherwise specified by the
manufacturer.
E1.4.4 There is no guarantee that 5 years is the
actual service life as it is dependent on diverse
factors which must be accounted for.
1.4.5 Equipment serviced by the Manufacturer
or their authorized representative shall be capable
of meeting all performance requirements of this
standard.
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1 Accidental Disengagement. A process
whereby a connector unintentionally comes free
from the component to which it is attached.
E2.1 Various incidents are known as “roll out”,
in the case of non-locking snap-hooks, and
“burst out”, in the case of locking snap-hooks.
2.2 Anchorage. A secure point of attachment
for lifeline, lanyards or deceleration devices.
E2.2 This includes the term ‘Anchor point’ and
may be used with restraint systems as well as fall
arrest systems.
2.3 Anchorage Connector. A device used for
attaching to a fall arrest anchorage where it is
not possible to make a direct connection with a
snap hook or carabineer.
E2.3 Examples of an anchorage connector are a
web sling and a boom strap. A lanyard connected
back onto itself is NOT a correct anchorage
connector.
2.4 Arresting Force. The force produced by
the fall arrest system on the human body when
arresting a fall.
2.5 Body Belt (Safety Belt or Waist Belt).
A support which is used for positioning, restraint
or ladder climbing only.
E2.5 Studies have concluded that prolonged
suspension in a body belt could complicate
injuries or cause death. Regulation by standards
groups and equipment design have reduced the
possible fall distance in climbing and positioning
activities to minimize forces on the user permitting
use of body belts. (Refer to ANSI A10.14-1991
for background information. Note: This standard
was administratively withdrawn by ANSI.)
2.6 Body Harness, Full. A design of straps
which contains the torso and is secured about the
user in a manner to distribute the arresting forces
over the torso and thighs with a means for
attaching it to other components of a personal
fall arrest system. Attachments for positioning,
restraint, retrieval, or rappelling may be included.
2.7 Buckle. A connector for holding the body
belt or body harness closed around the user.
2.8 Capacity. The combined weight for which
the component is designed to be used.
10
E2.8 The combined weight includes the body
weight, clothing, tools and other objects carried
by the user.
ANSI A10.32-2004
2.9 Carabiner. A connector generally
comprised of a trapezoidal or oval-shaped body
with a normally closed gate or similar
arrangement which may be opened to receive an
object and, when released, automatically closes to
retain the object. The three types of carabiners
are: Carabiner locking-type (Required by this
standard); Carabiner non-locking type. (Not
permitted as an integral part of the lanyard
assembly); Carabiner manual locking type. (Not
permitted by this standard).
E2.9 Carabiners usually do not include a captive
eye, such as a snap hook, and are primarily used
to connect two separate objects where a snap
hook will not suffice.
2.10 Clearance Distance. The measured
distance by which one object is separated from
another.
2.11 Climbing System. A combination of
equipment that permits the user to use both
hands freely while being tied off to a deceleration
device while climbing fixed structures.
2.12 Competent Person. One who is capable
of identifying existing and predictable hazards in
the surroundings or working conditions which are
unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to
employees, and who has authorization to take
prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
2.13 Component. A part of a personal fall
protection system.
2.14 Connector. A device which is used to
couple (connect) parts of a fall protection
system together.
E2.14 It may be an independent component of
the system (such as a carabiner), or an integral
component or part of the system (such as buckle
or D-ring sewn into a body belt or body harness,
or a snap-hook spliced or sewn to a lanyard or
self-retracting lanyard).
2.15 Deceleration Device. Any mechanism
which serves to dissipate energy during a fall.
E2.15 Examples of deceleration devices are: ripstitch, friction, rope-grab, tearing and deforming
lanyards.
2.16 Deceleration Distance. The vertical
distance a falling person travels, excluding lifeline
elongation, before stopping, from the point at
which the deceleration device engages.
E2.16 This is measured as the distance between the
location of a user’s body harness attachment point
just prior to activation of the deceleration device
during a fall, and the location of that attachment
point after the user comes to a full stop.
2.17 Descent Control Device. An automatic
or manually controlled lowering device for escape
or rescue. May be used as part of a single point
suspended scaffold in conjunction with an
independent lifeline fall arrest system.
E2.17 Definition included for clarity – not a part
of the standard at this time.
11
ANSI A10.32-2004
2.18 Fall Arrest. The act of stopping a free
fall of more than 2 feet by the use of Personal
Fall Protection Equipment.
2.19 Fall Factor. The distance (measured in
feet or meters) of a free fall divided by the
lanyard (measured in feet or meters) length from
the harness connection to the anchorage tie off.
E2.19 Fall Factor is important in determining
strength of materials used in fall arrest equipment
as well as the forces generated by a user.
2.20 Fall Protection. Equipment and methods
to guard against the injurious consequences of a
fall.
E2.20 Equipment and methods to both guard
against the injurious consequences of a fall and to
prevent a fall where possible.
2.21 Force Factor. The ratio of the peak
arresting force recorded using a rigid weight in
laboratory testing to that on a human body
having the same weight, both falling under
identical conditions. For the purposes of this
standard, a registered peak force shall be divided
by 1.4 to allow for body compression.
E2.21 This factor is necessary to properly relate
test forces experienced by humans during fall
arrest.
2.22 Free Fall. The act of falling vertically
before the personal arrest system activates to
stop the fall.
2.23 Free-Fall Distance. The vertical distance
a user falls before the fall arresting system begins
to stop the fall. This includes any rope grab slide
or self-retracting lifeline/lanyard extension
before they activate. This excludes elongation of
lifelines, lanyards and activation distance of
shock absorbers.
2.24 Hardware. Rigid connectors used to
attach components of a fall protection system.
2.25 Formal Inspection. The examination by
a Competent or Qualified Person.
2.26 Integral. Not removable from the
component, system or sub-system without
mutilating any element or without use of a
special tool.
2.27 Lanyard. A flexible line which connects
at one end to a full body harness, and at the other
end to an anchorage, deceleration device or
lifeline for fall arrest, positioning or restraint
purposes.
2.28 Lifeline. A flexible line that has a
connector at one end, if used in a vertical
position, and each end if used in a horizontal
position.
12
E2.24 Examples: snap-hooks, D rings,
buckles, carabiners, adjusters, O rings, etc.
ANSI A10.32-2004
2.29 Manufacturer. Any entity that
manufactures or assembles a fall arrest system,
bearing its identification.
E2.29 Manufacturers typically buy components
such as hardware and webbing, and assemble them
according to their design.
2.30 Pendulum (Swing) Fall. A body
suspended from a fixed point so as to swing freely
to and from under the action of gravity.
2.31 Personal Fall Arrest System. Any
combination of an anchorage, connectors, body
harness, lanyard, deceleration device or lifeline
used to arrest a fall from any working level.
2.32 Positioning Device System. A
combination of equipment that permits the user
to use both hands freely while being supported on
an elevated vertical surface.
E2.32 Fully body harnesses with built-in or
modular positioning belts are acceptable as well as
body belts constructed for this purpose. When
using the body belt for positioning, the free fall
distance must be limited to 2 feet or less. Note:
Waist belts do not comply with this standard for
fall arrest.
2.33 Qualified Person. One who, by
possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or
professional standing, or who be extensive
knowledge, training, and experience, has
successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or
resolve problems relating to the subject matter,
the work or the project.
2.34 Restraint (Tether) System. A
combination of equipment to prevent a user from
reaching a point where a fall could occur from an
elevated work surface.
E2.34 Restraint systems should be used only
where there is no possibility of falling at any
angle of restraint (i.e., lifelines that are used on
roofs to prevent a user from falling over the
edge. This is for a free fall distance of zero feet.)
2.35 Rope Grab. A device which travels on a
lifeline, engages the lifeline and locks to arrest
the fall of a user.
E2.35 A Rope Grab that is used on a horizontal
lifeline is subject to damage. Contact the
manufacturer for specific guidelines for use
2.36 Safety Factor. A ratio of the design load
and the ultimate strength of the material.
2.37 Self-Retracting Lifeline/Lanyard
(SRL). A device which contains a drum-wound
line which may be slowly extracted from or
retracted onto the drum under slight tension
during normal user movement, and which after
onset of a fall, automatically locks the drum and
arrests the fall.
E2.37 May include a raising/lowering function.
2.38 Service Life. The life of the product
beginning from the date of first use.
E2.38 In the absence of documentation of date
of first use, the date of manufacturer will be
considered the start of service life.
13
ANSI A10.32-2004
2.39 Shall. The word “shall” is to be
understood as mandatory.
2.40 Shock Absorber. A component of a fall
arrest system that is used to dissipate and limit
the arrest forces on a human body during free
fall.
2.41 Should. The word “should” is to be
understood as advisory.
2.42 Snap-Hook. A connector consisting of a
hook-shaped body with a normally closed gate or
similar arrangement which may be opened to
permit the hook to receive an object and, when
released, automatically closes to retain the
object.
2.42.1 Snap-Hook, Self-Locking. The locking
type (required by this standard) with a selfclosing, self-locking gate which remains closed
and locked until intentionally opened by the user
for connection or disconnection.
E2.42.1 This definition reflects what is
commonly called a self-locking or double-locking
snap-hook. A captive eye is an integral part of a
snap hook, but is independent of the hook and
gate portion.
2.42.2 Snap-Hook, Manual-Locking. The
manual-locking type (not permitted by this
standard) with a self-closing gate which remains
closed but not locked (unless purposely locked by
the user) until intentionally opened by the user
for connection or disconnection.
2.43 System. Any combination of fall arrest
equipment that prevents personal injury.
E2.43 Examples are: A full body harness,
anchorage and lanyard comprise a system as does
a full body harness, lanyard, rope grab and lifeline
and anchorage.
2.44 Tie Off. When a user wearing personal fall
protection equipment connects directly or
indirectly to an anchorage. The term also means
the condition of a user being connected to an
anchorage.
E2.44 Tie Off is slang for connection to a secure
anchorage.
2.45 Total Fall Distance. The maximum
vertical distance between a user’s full body
harness attachment point before and after the
fall is arrested, including free fall distance and
deceleration distance plus any elongation of the
system or anchorage.
E2.45 Elongation is a function of the materials
used (i.e., nylon webbing). Request further
information from the manufacturer of your
equipment.
2.46 Travel Restricting. Restricting a user in a
way to limit access to, or contact with, a free fall
hazard.
14
ANSI A10.32-2004
2.47 User. The individual wearing or utilizing
the fall protection equipment and/or system.
E2.47 Includes employers.
3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Selection of fall protection equipment shall
be made by a Competent Person.
E3.1 Where components of different
manufacturers are combined into a system, a
Qualified Person should approve the system.
3.2 All fall protection equipment should be
purchased new and unused.
E3.2 Used equipment may have been subjected to
degradation or force factors that exceed
permissible limits which could lead to unexpected
failure.
3.4 Fall protection equipment shall be removed
from service upon evidence of defects, damage or
deterioration; once it has been subjected to
impact loading; or upon expiration of the
manufacturer’s specified service limits, whichever
comes first.
3.5 When vertical lifelines are used, they shall be
limited to one user per lifeline.
3.6 Horizontal lifelines shall be designed,
installed, and used, under the supervision of a
Qualified Person, as part of a complete personal
fall arrest system, which maintains a safety
factor of at least two.
3.7 Lanyards and lifelines shall be used in a
manner to minimize cuts, abrasion and
deterioration.
E3.7 The line should be sleeved or otherwise
protected to minimize cuts, abrasion,
deterioration or burning. Anchorage connectors
should be used to avoid damage from sharp bends
in the line or abrasive wear.
3.7.1 Lanyards shall not be connected back upon
themselves unless authorized by the equipment
manufacturer.
E3.7.1 An anchorage connector is to be used.
Improper use can cause failure of the snap-hook
gate or other failure.
3.7.2 Lanyards shall not be connected to selfretracting lanyards
E3.7.2 Manufacturers may specify a D-ring
extension to the harness to ease connection to
the D-ring.
3.7.3 Knots are not allowed in lifelines, lanyards
or other direct-impact components.
E3.7.3 Except as a “stop” to prevent a device
from accidentally running off the end of a
lifeline, or to secure the free end of a lifeline at
ground level.
3.8 Harnesses, lanyards, belts, lifelines and other
load-bearing devices shall not be made of natural
fibers (including, but not limited to, cotton,
manila and leather.)
15
ANSI A10.32-2004
3.9 Connectors shall be corrosion resistant, and
all surfaces and edges shall be smooth to prevent
damage to interfacing parts of the system.
3.10 Snap-hooks and carabiners shall be selfclosing and self-locking and shall be capable of
being opened to release the load only by at least
two consecutive deliberate actions.
3.10.1 Other design of snap-hooks and
carabiners shall be tested to follow the intent of
the requirements of this standard.
E3.10.1 Future developments may cause change
to be made to the method of opening.
3.11 The component parts of a restraint system
including anchorages shall be designed and
manufactured to meet the strength requirements
of fall arrest equipment as specified in this
standard.
3.11.1 Restraint systems shall be designed by a
Qualified Person.
3.11.2 Restraint systems shall be installed and
used under the supervision of a Competent
Person.
3.11.3 The restraint system shall eliminate
possibility of a free fall.
3.12 Where equipment or fittings may come in
contact with energized electrical power sources,
either the equipment or fitting shall have
sufficient dielectric resistance or be shielded from
contact with the electrical power source or the
electrical power source shall be rendered
inoperative.
4. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
4.1 Anchorage. Anchorage shall be capable of
supporting at least 5,000 lbs. per user attached,
or shall be designed, installed and used under the
supervision of a Qualified Person as part of a
complete system which maintains a safety factor
of at least two.
4.1.1 An anchor connector shall be used if an
anchorage does not have a connection point
compatible with a carabiner or snap hook.
16
E3.11.3 Restraint systems may be subject to
poor design, improper installation or misuse and
create a free fall hazard which must be
eliminated.
ANSI A10.32-2004
4.2 Fall Arrest.
4.2.1 Personal fall arrest systems, when stopping
a fall, shall be rigged such that an employee can
neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8m), nor
contact any lower level or obstruction.
4.2.2 Maximum deceleration distance shall be
3.5 feet.
E4.2.2 This only is applicable to a maximum six
(6) foot free fall from a fixed anchorage and does
not apply to a free fall when attached to a
horizontal lifeline or when the personal fall
arrest system has been designed by a Qualified
Person.
4.2.3 The angle of rest for a user after a fall
shall not be greater than 30 degrees to the
vertical.
E4.2.3 Please see Appendix A, which is Figure 20
from the Z359.1-1992 (R1999) American National
Standard, “Safety Requirement for Personal Fall
Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components.”
4.3 Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRL).
4.3.1 Self-Retracting lanyards shall
automatically limit free fall distance to two (2)
feet (0.61m) or less and shall be capable of
sustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000
pounds (13.3kn) applied to the device with the
lanyard in the fully extended position.
4.4 Rope Grab.
4.4.1 For the purpose of this standard, Rope
Grabs are classified as follows: Type 1.: designed
to be used on a vertical lifeline. Type 2.: designed
to be used on a horizontal lifeline. Type 3.:
designed to be used on a lifeline of any
orientation.
4.4.2 Connectors used with Rope Grabs (whether
integral, separate components or elements of
separate components) shall meet the
requirements of this standard. Integral rings or
similar openings designed to accept connectors
shall be designed to minimize potential rollout of
mating connector.
E4.4.2 An effort should be made to encourage
compatible connector couplings
4.4.3 Rope Grabs shall be automatic in their
locking (fall stopping) function. The possibility
of overriding the self-locking feature of the SRL
shall be guarded against. Rope Grabs which are
designed to work on vertical lifelines and which
rely solely on the lever principle for locking,
shall be designed such that locking will become
effective before the lever becomes perpendicular
E4.4.3 The intent of guarding against overriding
of the self-locking feature of the Rope Grab
during use is to reduce the possibility that the
device may be deactivated if reflexively grabbed
or held during onset of a fall. Knots are not
predictable or testable over the given lifetime of
a lifeline.
17
ANSI A10.32-2004
to the lifeline. Systems incorporating “knot”
type fall arresters are excluded from this
standard.
4.4.4 Type 1 Rope Grabs that are not bidirectional (could arrest a fall or lock in both
directions of travel) and which could be installed
upside down on the lifeline shall be clearly
marked showing proper orientation of use.
E4.4.4 A bi-directional rope grab is one which
will lock in both directions of travel on a lifeline.
4.4.5 Type 1 Rope Grabs shall be incapable of
creeping down the lifeline during work operations
at a given elevation.
4.4.6 Corrosion protection shall be afforded to
all elements (parts) of the Rope Grab to a degree
deemed necessary by a Qualified Person(s)
directly responsible for the design of the device.
Protection shall at a minimum allow the device
to operate as intended and show no sign of
corrosion which if left unchecked could result in
corrosion-related failure of the device after being
salt spray (fog) tested for 48 hours in accordance
with ASTM B117-90. Working parts critical to
the operation of the device shall be fully exposed
during salt spray even if disassembly of the device
is required to do so.
4.4.7 Rope Grabs shall have an ultimate strength
of not less than 3,600 pounds (16kN)
4.5 Snaphooks and Carabiners.
4.5.1 Corrosion. All hardware shall be
corrosion resistant, prohibiting any loss of
functionality or presence of red rust when tested
in accordance with Section 7.4.1. The presence
of white scale is acceptable.
4.5.2 Test Loads.
4.5.2.1 Rings. (D rings, O rings and oval rings)
shall be capable of withstanding a 5,000 pound
tensile load without breaking when tested in
accordance with Section 7.4.2.1.
4.5.2.2 Snaphooks and carabiners shall be
capable of withstanding a 5,000 pound tensile
load without breaking or distortion sufficient to
release the gate when tested in accordance with
Section 7.4.2.2.
18
E4.4.6 Devices intended for use in specific
environments may require special attention to
corrosion protection. Care must be used when
combining dissimilar metals to avoid adverse
galvanic couples.
ANSI A10.32-2004
4.5.3 Gate Load for Snaphooks and
Carabiners. The snaphook or carabiner shall
be capable of withstanding a minimum load of
220 pounds without the gate separating from the
nose of the snaphook or carabiner body by more
than 0.125 inch when tested in accordance with
Section 7.4.3.1. The gate of the snaphook or
carabiner shall be capable of withstanding a
minimum side load of 350 pounds when tested in
accordance with Section 7.4.3.2. Failure shall be
defined as permanent deformation of the gate
more than 0.125 inch, or separation of the gate
from the body of the snaphook or carabiner body
by more than 0.125 inch.
4.5.4 Adjusters and Buckles. Buckles, oval
rings used as adjusters and other adjusters shall be
capable of withstanding a minimum tensile load
of 4,000 pounds without breaking when tested in
accordance with Section 7.4.4.
4.5.5 Proof Loading Test Requirements. All
snaphooks, carabiners and D rings shall be 100%
proof tested to a 3,600 pound (16kN) tensile
load without cracking, breaking or taking
permanent deformation when tested in
accordance with Section 7.4.5
4.6 Lanyards.
4.6.1 Lanyard Construction.
4.6.1.1 The lanyard shall be made from suitable
materials capable of meeting the performance
requirements of Section 7.1.1.3.1. The lanyard
may be permanently attached to a shockabsorbing component that complies with this
standard.
4.6.1.2 Rope and webbing used in the
construction of lanyards shall be made of virgin
synthetic material having strength, aging,
abrasion resistance and heat resistance
characteristics equivalent or superior to
polyamides.
4.6.1.3 Wire rope used in the construction of
lanyards shall be constructed in accordance with
Federal Specification RR-W-410D.
4.6.1.4 Chain used in the construction of
E4.6.1.4 Chain is generally used for work
lanyards shall be manufactured in accordance with positioning, i.e., re-bar and concrete form work.
the requirements for grade 80 set forth in ASTM
E8-89b.
19
ANSI A10.32-2004
5. MARKING REQUIREMENTS
5.1
General Marking Requirements.
5.1.1 Markings shall be permanent, legible and
written in English.
E5.1.1 Other languages may be included at
manufacturer’s option. Labels may be fabric,
leather, paper, metallic, or any other material
that is suitable. Imprints and stamps are also
acceptable.
5.1.2 Except for connectors, all equipment shall
be marked with the following information:
E5.1.2 Examples: Full body harnesses, lanyards,
rope grabs, retractable lifelines, anchor
connectors, etc. UL 969 should be referred to
for reference.
5.1.2.1 “DO NOT REMOVE THIS LABEL”.
5.1.2.2 Part Number and/or model designation.
5.1.2.3 Month and year of manufacture.
5.1.2.4 Manufacturer’s name or identifying logo
or mark.
5.1.2.5 Maximum user weight including tools as
determined in Section 7.
5.1.2.6 Standard number (A10.32) - (year).
5.1.2.7 Primary web and rope fiber material(s).
E5.1.2.7 Example: web or rope - nylon or
polyester.
5.1.2.8 Warning to remove from service if
subject to a fall arrest.
5.1.2.9 Warning to read instructions before
using.
5.1.2.10 Expiration Date.
5.1.3 Provision shall be made to record formal
inspection dates and inspector’s initials.
5.1.3.1 Ten (10) spaces shall be provided for
dates and initials of inspector, signifying two (2)
formal inspections per year over five (5) years
E5.1.3.1 An additional paper record should be
maintained as backup records.
5.2 Special Marking Requirements for
Individual Components.
5.2.1 Connectors. Manufacturer’s
identification.
20
E5.2.1 Name or logo with year of manufacture
and traceability designation.
ANSI A10.32-2004
5.2.1.1 Snap-hooks and carabiners shall be
marked PT to indicate they have been
successfully proof tested as described in Section
4.5.5. The year of manufacture shall also be
marked on the snap-hook and carabiner and
other markings sufficient to provide traceability.
5.2.2 Shock absorbers.
5.2.2.1 Customized absorbers for increased
weight (over 310 lb.), fall distance (over 6 feet),
or horizontal lifeline applications shall be labeled
accordingly.
5.2.3 Lanyards.
5.2.3.1 Maximum distance of free fall.
5.2.3.2 Warnings, if not suitable for fall arrest.
5.2.4 Rope grabs.
5.2.4.1 Arrow indicating the direction of travel
on a lifeline.
5.2.4.2 Proper size and type of lifeline to use.
5.2.4.3 Maximum length of lanyard.
5.2.5
Self-retracting lanyards.
5.2.5.1 Diameter of rope or wire rope and width
and thickness of webbing used in the lanyard.
5.2.5.2 The fiber of other materials used in the
lanyard construction.
5.2.5.3 The lanyard length.
5.2.5.4 Maximum arrest force.
5.2.5.5 Proper installation means.
5.2.5.6 The need for inspection at periodic
intervals and at least monthly.
5.2.5.7 Testing of the device for locking before
each use.
5.2.5.8 Arrest distance.
5.2.6 Waist belts (body belts). Shall not be
used for fall arrest.
E5.2.6 May be used for positioning and climbing
only.
21
ANSI A10.32-2004
6. EMPLOYER REQUIREMENTS
6.1 Training.
E6.1.1 For more information about the general
6.1.1 The employer shall provide a training
program for each employee who might be
issues of training, reference ANSI/ASSE Z490.1-2001
Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety, Health,
exposed to fall hazards. The program shall
enable each employee to recognize the hazards of and Environmental Training.
falling and shall train each employee in the
procedures to be followed in order to minimize
these hazards. Relevant Federal, State and local
regulatory requirements, procedures and standards
shall also be included.
6.1.2 The employer shall assure that each
employee has been trained, as necessary, by a
Competent or Qualified Person in the following
areas: The nature of fall hazards in the work
area; the correct procedures for erecting,
maintaining, disassembling and inspecting the fall
protection systems to be used; the use and
operation of personal fall arrest systems, safety
net systems and other protection to be used.
E6.1.2 Training is the most important component
of any fall protection program. The individuals
actually wearing and using the equipment must be
thoroughly trained in all aspects of the equipment.
6.1.2.1 Employees shall demonstrate an
understanding on at least the following: How the
individual components function together as a
system to restrain or arrest a fall; proper donning
and adjustment; proper tie-off procedure;
inspection and maintenance procedure; rescue
procedure; learning how equipment is to be used
on the specific project; and unique hazards.
6.1.2.2 Employee training shall include lectures,
demonstrations and hands-on experience
performing tasks described in section 6.1.2.
6.2 Rescue.
6.2.1 Employees shall be trained in self-rescue or E6.2.1 Alternate means include retrieval and
medical care.
alternate means shall be provided for prompt
rescue in the event of a fall.
6.2.2 A project-specific rescue plan shall be
developed which will provide for a form of rescue
for employees.
6.2.3 All rescuers shall be provided with adequate
training, equipment and personal protective
equipment where needed.
22
ANSI A10.32-2004
6.3 Inspection.
6.3.1 A regular inspection and maintenance
program in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions shall be established.
E6.3.1 Even though a maximum life of fall
arrest equipment has been established by this
standard or a manufacturer, this does not mean it
will last for this period. Therefore, inspection
prior to use is critical.
6.3.1.1 The manufacturer’s instructions shall be
readily available for reference.
6.3.1.2 The date of the first use shall be recorded
by the employer.
6.3.2 Formal inspections shall be made by either
a Competent or Qualified Person on at least a
semi-annual basis.
E6.3.2 Suggested examination periods are 3/1 to
3/31 and 9/1 to 9/30 for each employer.
6.3.2.1 Inspect the snap-hook or carabiner by
examining the gate and hook body to see if the
hook is fully closed after manually opening and
allowing the snap-hook or carabiner to self-close
slowly. Any separation by more than 0.125 in.
in a jammed condition shall be reason for
rejecting the snap-hook or carabiner from further
use by removal and tagging until it has received
maintenance or determined to be unfit for further
use and destroyed.
6.3.3 Prior to each use, fall protection
equipment shall be inspected by the user for
defects, damage or deterioration. Any suspected
defective equipment shall be removed from
service.
E6.3.3 The user should be instructed to observe
the equipment for the appearance of specific
defects which could affect reliability and their
personal safety.
6.3.3.1 Harnesses, lanyards and lifelines that
show evidence of wear beyond that deemed
acceptable by the manufacturer’s
recommendations, shall be removed from service.
6.3.3.2 Self-retracting lanyards, rope grabs,
tripods and other mechanical equipment that
show evidence of wear beyond that deemed
acceptable by the manufacturer’s
recommendations, may be recertified by the
manufacturer following test and evaluation for
re-use.
6.3.4 If the manufacturer’s label is not legible or
is missing, the equipment shall be removed from
service.
23
ANSI A10.32-2004
6.4 Compatibility. When fall arrest components
made by different manufacturers are used in a
system, a Competent Person shall determine that
they shall meet the requirements of this standard,
and are compatible to one another.
6.5 Competent Person. A Competent Person shall
ensure that Self-retracting lanyard’s be installed so
that the maximum free fall distance is limited to two feet.
6.6 Hazard Protection. Fall Protection Equipment
shall be protected from abrasion, cutting, welding,
electrical and chemical hazards and shall be selected
to resist these hazards.
6.7 Job Task. Every job task shall be surveyed
to identify potential fall hazards and appropriate
protection provided.
6.7.1 Equipment Selection. If the hazard
cannot be eliminated, then appropriate fall arrest
equipment must be selected to restrict the
individual or arrest a fall, should it occur.
E6.7.1 A competent or Qualified Person must
select the equipment to make certain that it will
provide the desired protection as well as be
suitable for the specific work being performed.
6.8 Fall Restraint Systems.
6.8.1 The work site shall be surveyed by a
Qualified Person to determine if the fall restraint
system will provide protection from a free fall.
7. TEST REQUIREMENTS
7.1 Harness, Belt, and Lanyard
Performance Test Procedures. Fall
protection products which are designed and
packaged to operate as a system shall be tested
according to Procedure A. Fall protection
products which are meant to operate
interchangeably with other fall protection
products, or systems which are easily broken
down to otherwise useable components shall be
tested according to Procedure B.
7.1.1 Strength Tests.
Procedure A
The fall arrest test system shall contain an
anchorage which shall not have a deflection
greater than .04 inch (1 mm) when a force of
2,250 lb.. (10 kN) is applied.
24
E7.1.1 A fall factor of 1.0 is when the drop
height is equal to the lanyard length on a
conventional system. A fall factor of 2.0 is
when the drop height is equal to twice the lanyard
length, the maximum fall physically possible.
Fall factors can range from 0. 1, a minimum fall,
to 2.0, a maximum fall. The actual physical
distance of the fall is dependent on the lanyard
length.
ANSI A10.32-2004
In the case of a fall arrest product, the harness
shall be affixed to a rigid test dummy weighing
220 lb. + 3 lb.
(100 kg +1.4 kg). The fall factor shall be 2.0.
In the case of a positioning or retrieval or similar
product, the belt or harness shall be affixed to a
rigid test dummy (or a belt may be attached to a
rigid test weight) weighing 220 lb. +/- 3 lb. (100
kg + 1.4 kg). The fall factor shall be 1.0.
Rig the product to subject the test dummy to the
above specified fall factor. Release the dummy
quickly and cleanly, allowing it to fall free to its
hanging location without interference,
obstruction or hitting the floor during the test.
Failure of the strength test shall consist of any
breakage or slippage sufficient to permit the test
dummy to fall free.
7.1.1.1 Integral System and Integral
Subsystem Testing. Put the harness on the
test torso, fasten all buckles and adjust it snugly
as though the torso were a person. Attach the
free end of the lanyard to the load cell connected
to the test structure. Attach the quick release
mechanism to the test torso (neck ring for “feet
first” drop and crotch ring for “head first” drop).
Raise the test torso to a level which will allow a 6
foot (1.829 mm) free fall or the maximum
permitted by the lanyard, whichever is less, upon
release of the test torso. The torso shall be
released from a point no more than 12 inches
(305 mm) measured horizontally from the point
of the lanyard connection to the load cell.
Release the torso using the quick release
mechanism. Measure and record the maximum
arrest force and deceleration distance. After the
drop the torso is to remain suspended by the
harness for a period of 5 minutes. During the
post-fall suspension period, measure and record
the angle at rest. Perform the test once each for
a “feet-first” and a “head-first” drop. A new test
specimen may be used for each test. Compare
the test results to the requirements in this
standard.
Procedure B
7.1.1.1 Fall Arrest Body Harness. The body
harness to be tested shall be affixed snugly to a
rigid test dummy weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg
+ 1.4 kg) and subjected to a fall factor of 2.0 in
the following manner:
E7.1.1.1 Minimum safety factors can be
determined by testing at increased heights,
increased weights, or a combination of both (the
latter has been done in the past). The "typical"
worker is assumed to weigh 220 pounds (100
25
ANSI A10.32-2004
The harness and test dummy shall be attached to
an anchorage which shall not have a deflection
greater than 0.4 inch
(1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) is
applied. The lanyard used to attach the harness
to the rigid anchorage shall be a 6 foot +/- 1 inch
(1.8 m +/- 2.5 cm) web-lanyard with a minimum
tensile strength of 5,000 pounds. The length
shall be measured under a tension of 10 lb. (4.5
kg). One end of the lanyard shall be attached to
the rear D-ring on the harness, and the other end
to the anchorage.
Hoist the test dummy to a point 6 feet ± .7 inch
(1.8 m + 2.5 cm) above the anchorage point.
Release the dummy quickly and cleanly, allowing
it to fall free to its hanging location without
interference, obstruction or hitting the floor
during the test. Failure of the strength test shall
consist of any breakage or slippage sufficient to
permit the test dummy to fall free or elongation
of the web lanyard to a total length of 80 inches
(2 m) at rest.
7.1.1.2 Positioning Harnesses, Retrieval
Harnesses, Body Belts. The harness or belt to
be tested shall be affixed to a rigid test dummy
(or it may be attached to a rigid test weight
weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg) and
subjected to a fall factor of 1.0 in the following
manner,:
The harness and test weight shall be attached to
an anchorage which shall not have a deflection
greater than .04 inch
(1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) is
applied. The lanyard used to attach the belt or
harness to the rigid anchorage shall be a 6 foot ±
1 inch (1.8 m +/- 2.5 cm) web-lanyard with a
minimum tensile strength of 5000 lb.. The
length should be measured under a tension of 10
lb. (4.5 kilograms).
Hoist the test dummy to a point where the drop
height equals the lanyard length (6 foot + 2 inches
(1.8 m + 5 cm) drop). Release the weight quickly
and cleanly, allowing it to fall free to its hanging
location without interference, obstruction, or
hitting the floor during the test. Failure of the
strength test shall consist of any breakage or
slippage sufficient to permit the test weight to fall
free or elongation of the web lanyard to a total
length of 80 inches (2 m) at rest.
26
kilograms) and to be rigged to experience a fall
factor of 1.0 on a 6 foot lanyard. The safety
factors are designed to account for variations
from this "typical" condition. The ANSI A10.32
committee has concluded that the most likely
variance from this is a misuse situation where the
worker is rigged to experience a fall factor of 2.0.
Although the committee most emphatically does
not condone this misuse, it has chosen to
duplicate this condition to perform the Strength
Tests.
ANSI A10.32-2004
7.1.1.3 Shock Absorbing Lanyards, or Rope,
Web, Lanyards Intended for Fall Arrest.
7.1.1.3.1 Lanyard Material. Lanyard material
shall be tested for tensile strength according to
ASTM D4268 and shall not break below 5,000
lb..
The lanyard or shock absorber/lanyard to be
tested shall be affixed to a rigid test weight
weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg) and
subjected to a fall factor of 2.0 in the following
manner:
The lanyard and test weight shall be attached to
an anchorage which shall not have deflection
greater than .04 inch (1 mm) when a force of
2,250 lb. (10 kN) is applied. Hoist the test
weight to a point where the drop height equals
twice the lanyard length, then release the weight
quickly and cleanly. The weight shall fall free to
its hanging location without interference,
obstruction, or hitting the floor during the test.
Failure of the strength test shall consist of any
damage sufficient to permit the test weight to hit
the floor or ground.
7.1.1.3.1 A lanyard or shock absorber/lanyard
shall normally be tested independently of other
devices. However, in the case of a lanyard
permanently fastened to a rope grab, test the
combination according to 7.3.1.
7.1.1.4 Positioning, Retrieval, or Similar
Lanyards Not Intended for Fall Arrest. A
lanyard shall be affixed to a rigid test weight
weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg) and
subjected to a fall factor of 1.0 in the following
manner,:
The lanyard shall be attached to an anchorage
which shall not have a deflection greater than .04
inch (1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) is
applied. Hoist the test dummy to a point where
the drop height equals the lanyard length.
Release the weight quickly and cleanly. The test
weight shall fall free to its hanging location
without interference, obstruction, or hitting the
floor or ground during the test. Failure of the
strength test shall consist of any damage
sufficient to permit the test weight to hit the
floor or ground.
27
ANSI A10.32-2004
7.1.2 Force Test. This standard tests only
lanyards for fall arrest forces. Alternative fall
protection designs which do not use a lanyard
shall use a modification of this procedure,
approved by a Qualified Person, to be sure that
the end user is subjected to no greater than 1,000
lb. (4.5 kN) in a fall.
Procedure A
The fall arrest test system shall contain an
anchorage which shall not have a deflection
greater than .04 inch (1 mm) when a force of
2,250 lb. (10 kN) is applied. The product to be
tested shall be affixed to a rigid test weight
weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4 kg). The
product shall be attached to a force measuring
device having the characteristics in Section
7.1.2.1 below. Attach a recorder to obtain the
peak force and, if desired, the time trace of the
resulting force, either at the actual time or at a
later time, after storage of the information. The
force measuring device shall be attached to the
rigid anchorage. The initial length shall be
determined under the 220 lb. load.
Rig the product to subject the test weight to a fall
factor of 1.0. Release the weight quickly and
cleanly. The weight shall fall free to its hanging
location without interference, obstruction or
hitting the floor or ground during the test.
Failure of the force test shall be a recorded
maximum arrest force of greater than 1,400 lb.
(6.2 kN).
Procedure B
7.1.2.1 Shock Absorbing Lanyards, or Rope,
Web, Lanyards Intended for Fall Arrest.
Measuring Range - 0-3,000 lb. minimum
Accuracy - ±2.5% Full Scale
Resolution (0-1,000 lb.) - 10 lb. maximum
Rigidity - 0.001 inch maximum at full load
Resonant Frequency - 200 Hz minimum
Frequency Response - 100 Hz
Electronics must be in compliance with the
National institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST).
28
E7.1.2 Drop impact testing with a rigid test
weight will yield a higher fall arrest force than
would be experienced by a person falling under
identical conditions. This is due to physiological
factors such as flailing limbs, internal energy
absorption, etc. A rule of thumb used by both the
industry and OSHA is that this ratio is 1.4 / 1.
For example, if the force recorded in a test on a
rigid weight is 1,400 lb., the force on a person
using that same system would be 1,000 lb..
ANSI A10.32-2004
Attach a recorder to obtain the peak force and, if
desired, the time trace of the resulting force,
either at the actual time or at a later time, after
storage of the information. The force measuring
device shall be attached to a rigid anchorage,
which shall not have a deflection greater than .04
inch (1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN)
is applied.
Carefully suspend the test weight (do not allow
any free fall) from the anchorage supported only
by the lanyard. Determine the length of the
lanyard under the 220 lb. (100 k-g) load. The
test weight shall be hoisted to a point that the
drop height equals the lanyard length, which is
equivalent to a fall factor of 1.0. Release the
weight quickly and cleanly. The weight shall fall
free to its hanging location without interference,
obstruction or hitting the floor or ground during
the test. Failure of the force test shall be a
recorded maximum arrest force of greater than
1,400 lb. (6.2 kN) and for a final measured
length (while still under the 220 lb. load) greater
than 42 inches (1.1 m) longer than the initial
measured length.
7.1.2.1.1 In the case of a shock absorber/
lanyard permanently attached to a rope grab, the
1,400 lb. (6.1 kN) maximum arresting force
applies to the combination, not to the shock
absorber or the rope grab tested separately.
7.2 Lifeline Performance Test Procedures.
7.2.1 Strength Test.
7.2.1.1 Wire rope shall be tested for tensile
strength according to the procedure in Federal
Spec. RRW410-Rev. D and shall not break below
5,000 lb..
7.2.1.2 Wire rope tensile strength shall be
determined at a pull rate of 1 inch (2.5 cm) per
minute.
7.2.1.3 Synthetic rope tensile strength shall be
determined at a pull rate of 2 inches (5.0 cm) per
minute.
29
ANSI A10.32-2004
7.2.2 Retained Strength-After Testing.
7.2.2.1 Lifelines used to test rope grab devices
shall retain at least 5000 lb. tensile strength in
the area where the rope grab was activated.
Tests shall be run according to the requirements
of 7.2.1.
7.3 Rope Grab Performance Test
Procedures.
7.3.1 Strength Test. The rope grab to be
tested shall be attached to a vertical lifeline
which meets all of the requirements of the rope
specified in the labels or literature packaged with
the rope grab. Rope grabs without information
on acceptable lifelines shall be considered
incomplete and shall not be tested. The vertical
lifeline shall be attached to an anchorage which
shall not have a deflection greater than .04 inch
(1 mm) when a force of 2,250 lb. (10 kN) is
applied. There must be a minimum of 4 ft. (1.2
m) of lifeline beneath the rope grab connection
point. The rope grab shall be attached to a rigid
test weight weighing 220 lb. + 3 lb. (100 kg + 1.4
kg) with a lanyard (See 7.3.1 below). Carefully
suspend the test weight (do not allow any free
fall) from the anchorage supported only by the
lifeline, rope grab and lanyard. The distance
between the anchorage point and the rope grab
connection point shall be 2 ft. (.6 m) + 1 inch
(25 mm). Permanently mark the location of the
rope grab on the lifeline. Determine the distance
from the marked location on the lifeline to the
suspended 220 lb. (100 kg) weight.
7.3.1.1 If the rope grab comes with a
permanently attached lanyard, the test weight
shall be hoisted to a point that results in a fall
factor of 2.0. Release the weight quickly and
cleanly, allowing it to fall free to its hanging
location without interference, obstruction, or
hitting the floor during the test. Failure shall
consist of any breakage which allows the test
weight to fall free, or slippage which allows the
weight to travel greater than 42 inches (1.1
30
E7.2.2.1 In order to ensure consistency in
testing, tensile tests are run on a tensile testing
machine using a straight piece of brand new
material. In actual use, tied knots, abrasive wear,
and bending over sharp edges can significantly
lower these values. Care should be taken to
eliminate knots, minimize wear, and use a proper
anchorage connector so that the lifeline or
lanyard does not come into contact with sharp
edges. In addition, frequent inspections must be
performed to remove questionable or unsafe
products from service.
ANSI A10.32-2004
meter) below its original hanging location as
measured from the mark on the lifeline.
Lifeline damage shall be evaluated according to
7.2.2.
7.3.1.2 If the rope grab does not come with a
permanently attached lanyard, use a 3 ft. ± 1
inch (0.9 m ± 2.5 cm) web-lanyard with a
minimum tensile of 5,000 lb.. The length should
be measured under a tension of 10 lb. (4.5 kg).
Hoist the test weight to a point 3 ft. + 2 inches
(0.9 m + 5 cm) above the rope grab. Release the
weight quickly and cleanly, allowing it to fall free
to its hanging location without interference,
obstruction, or hitting the floor during the test.
Failure shall consist of any breakage which allows
the test weight to fall free, or slippage which
allows the weight to travel greater than 42 inches
(1.1 meter) below its original hanging location as
measured from the mark on the lifeline.
Lifeline damage shall be evaluated according to
7.2.2.
7.4 Hardware Test Procedures.
7.4.1 Corrosion. All hardware shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM B117-90 for corrosion
resistance for a period of 48 hours.
7.4.2 Tensile Strength Testing of Rings,
Snaphooks and Carabiners.
7.4.2.1 Rings. A 5,000 pound test load shall be
applied to the D ring, oval ring or other
connector over 1 minute to reach load and avoid
any dynamic effects; mandrels (test fixture pins)
shall be rigid and of round or rectangular crosssection. Maintain the test load for a minimum
period of 1 minute and evaluate in accordance
with Section 4.5.2.1.
7.4.2.2 Snaphooks and Caribiners. A 5,000
pound test load shall be applied to the snaphook
or carabiner over 1 minute to reach load and
avoid any dynamic effects; mandrels (test fixture
pins) shall be rigid and of round or rectangular
cross-section maximum size shall be no greater
than the throat opening of the snaphook or
carabiner. Maintain the test load for a minimum
period of 1 minute and evaluate in accordance
with Section 4.5.2.2.
31
ANSI A10.32-2004
7.4.3 Gate Load Test Procedure.
7.4.3.1 Gate Face Testing. Position the
snaphook or carabiner in the clamping fixture
such that the outside face of the gate is generally
parallel to the test bed and the gate’s motion is
perpendicular to the test bed and the gate’s
motion is perpendicular to the test bed. Using
a rigid bar shown in Appendix B, apply a load
perpendicular to the face of the gate at point
as close to the nose of the hook body as possible.
The load shall be applied increasingly until the
required test load of 220 pounds is reached. The
rigid bar travel rate shall not exceed 3 inches/
minute. Maintain the test load for minimum
period of 1 minute. While the load is applied,
measure the distance of the gate separation
from the hook or carabiner nose at the point
of minimum clearance.
E7.4.3.1 Please see Appendix B, which is Figure 22
from the Z359.1-1992 (R1999) American National
Standard, “Safety Requirement for Personal Fall
Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components”
7.4.3.2 Side Load Testing. Position the
snaphook or carabiner in the clamping fixture
such that the opening motion of the gate is
generally parallel to the test bed and the
snaphook or carabiner is supported above the test
bed from each end. Measure the height from the
test bed as shown in Appendix C. Apply the test
load at an increasing rate (speed of 3 inches/minute)
until the required test load of 350 pounds is
reached. Maintain the test load for minimum
period of 1 minute. While the load is applied,
measure the distance of gate separation from the
hook or carabiner nose at the point of minimum
clearance. Remove the load and measure the gate
height from the test bed. Calculate the
permanent deformation of the gate.
E7.4.3.2 Please see Appendix C, which is Figure 23
from the Z359.1-1992 (R1999) American National
Standard, “Safety Requirement for Personal Fall
Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Components”
7.4.4 Tensile Strength of Adjusters and
Buckles. Subject the buckles, oval ring used as
adjuster or other adjuster to an internally applied
test load of 4,000 pounds (17.8 kN) over 1
minute to reach load and avoid any dynamic
effects. Evaluate the buckle or adjuster in
accordance with Section 4.5.4.
7.4.5 Proof Load Testing Procedure. D rings,
Oval rings, O rings, Carabiners and Snaphooks
shall be subjected to a 100% proof load
verification. Time to reach the 3,600 pound (16
kN) shall be greater than 1 second. Maintain
that proof load for a period of not less than 2
seconds. Inspect the connector in accordance
with Section 4.5.5.
32
APPENDIX A
ANSI A10.32-2004
33
ANSI A10.32-2004
34
APPENDIX B
APPENDIX C
ANSI A10.32-2004
35
A S
S E
Printed in U.S.A.