User Manual
SWING FALLS
To minimize the possibility of a swing fall, anchor as directly above the work
area as possible. Striking objects horizontally, due to the pendulum effect,
may cause serious injury. Swing falls also increase the vertical fall distance of
a worker, compared to a fall directly below the anchorage connector. Swing
falls may be reduced by using overhead anchorage connectors that move
with the worker.
CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS
COMPATIBILITY LIMITATIONS
All connecting subsystems must only be coupled to compatible connectors. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.140 and 1926.502 prohibit
snap hooks from being engaged to certain objects unless two requirements are met: snap hook must be a locking type and
must be “designed for” making such a connection. Under OSHA “designed for” means that the manufacturer of the snap
hook speci cally designed the snap hook to be used to connect to the equipment in question.
The following connections must be avoided because they can result in rollout* when a non-locking snap hook is used:
• Direct connection of a snap hook to horizontal lifeline.
• Two snap hooks connected to each other.
• A snap hook connected to a webbing loop or webbing lanyard.
• Improper dimensions of the D-ring, rebar, or other connection point in relation to the snap hook dimensions that
would allow the snap hook keeper to be depressed by a turning motion of the snap hook.
*Rollout: A process by which a snap hook or carabiner unintentionally disengages from another connector or object to which
it is coupled. (ANSI Z359.0)
COMPATIBLE CONNECTIONS INCOMPATIBLE CONNECTIONS
FREE FALL AND CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CLEARANCE USING AN ENERGY ABSORBING LANYARD IN A 6 FOOT FREE FALL APPLICATION
WARNING!
Striking objects horizontally due to the pendulum effect of a swing
fall may cause serious injury or death.
NO! NO! NO! NO!
NO!NO!NO!NO!
• Two (or more) snap hooks connected to one D-ring.
• A snap hook connected back on its integral lanyard.
SWING FALL
HAZARD
Anchorages
Correct Incorrect
Total Fall
Distance
(Free Fall +
Deceleration)
Free Fall
Working Level
Lower Level or Obstruction
Energy
Absorbing
Lanyard
6 ft.
Length of Lanyard
11 ft.
4 ft.
Deceleration Free Fall Distance
2 ft.
Safety Factor
1 ft. Harness Stretch
5 ft.
To Worker’s Back D-Ring
Total Estimated
Required Clearance
(from anchor)
18 ft.