Klein Tools Harnesses - Manual (Page 5)

How OPE Systems Are Used
(continued)
Personal Retrieval System
A personal retrieval system is required where
a worker may need to be rescued from a work
environment.
For example, the worker shown in Figure 6 is using
both a personal retrieval system and a personal fall-
arrest system. Each system has its own A-B-C
components.
Since this worker is in an area that may contain
potentially hazardous conditions, he is using a per-
sonal retrieval system. The (A) component (not
shown) is the personnel retrieval winch that serves
as part of the retrieval anchorage.
Retrieval anchorages must be capable of supporting
at least twice the potential impact load of worker’s fall
or 3,000 lbs., whichever is greater. The (B) com-
ponent is the worker’s retrieval harness with shoulder
D-rings. The (C) component is a V-sling, which is
equipped with locking snap hooks.
Since the worker is at risk of falling, he is also using
a personal fall-arrest system. The (A) component
(which is not shown) could be any suitable fall-arrest
anchorage. Fall-arrest anchorages must be capable
of supporting a minimum of 5,000 lbs. and must be
independent of the worker’s support. The (B) compo-
nent is the harness which is also equipped with
a D-ring at the back for attaching a fall-arrest con-
necting device. The (C) component is the fall-arrest
lanyard which is equipped with a locking snap hook
at each end.
When used in accordance with OSHA 1910.146
Permit Required Confined Space procedures, the rear
fall-arrest D-ring may also be connected to retrieval
connecting devices that meet OSHA standards.
Like a fall-arrest system, a retrieval system is a pas-
sive system which only becomes active when the
worker needs to be removed from the work location.
Remember, a retrieval system is designed to remove
a worker from a work location, not to provide fall-
arrest protection. Therefore, the worker may also
need the fall-arrest and positioning functions.
The retrieval shoulder D-rings are NOT designed to
properly distribute impact forces caused by arresting
a free fall. Do not rely upon a retrieval system by
itself for fall-arrest protection. Always use the fall-
arrest features of a retrieval harness.
NOTE: Klein retrieval harnesses with shoulder
retrieval D-rings also provide a rear D-ring which
must be used for fall-arrest protection.
Always Use Fall Protection if There is
a Risk of a Fall
Although OSHA regulations generally require work-
ers to use fall protection when exposed to a fall of six
feet or more, Klein strongly recommends using fall-
arrest protection when working at any elevated posi-
tion. When in doubt, contact your regional OSHA
office. Also, OSHA regulations prohibit body belts
from being used alone as a fall-arrest system.
Know the appropriate regulations. Learn about the
types of protective equipment and systems which
must be used on the job. OSHA requires employers
to know and follow the OSHA regulations pertaining
to their industry and to provide a workplace free from
hazards that might cause injuries. OSHA provides
free consultation assistance to employers who need
help in training and implementation. If you have
questions or any doubt as to what regulations
apply to you or what safety equipment is
required, contact your regional OSHA office.
Figure 6
(C) V-Sling (Retrieval
Connecting Device)
(A) Personnel
Retrieval
Winch/Anchorage
(not shown)
(A) Suitable Fall-Arrest
Anchorage (not shown)
(C) Rope
Lanyard
(Fall-Arrest
Connecting
Device)
(B) Full-Body
Harness
(Fall Arrest
and
Retrieval
Bodywear)
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