On the surface, a self-retracting lifeline (SRL) doesn’t look like a big deal. But when working at heights, it can be the difference between life and death.
An SRL is a fall protection device used in construction, oil and gas, and various other industries. It consists of a retractable lifeline coiled in a compact housing.
The SRL is secured to an anchor point on the worksite. Then, the free end of the lifeline attaches to a worker’s harness via a built-in connector. If that worker falls, the SRL automatically locks and arrests their fall before they can make contact with the ground, preventing a serious injury or fatality.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of SRLs, their advantages over rope or lanyard systems, and give tips on how to select the right SRL for the job.
SRLs and the ANSI Z359.14 Standard Update
The American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Z359.14 standard for self-retracting devices (SRDs) was approved on June 17, 2021 and came into force on February 1st, 2023.
That means if you learned about fall protection before those dates, it might be time to refresh your knowledge.
But luckily, you won’t need to refresh your SRL inventory. You can continue to use equipment manufactured previous to the revision of the standard, so long as they have been inspected by a competent person at the recommended intervals and deemed safe to use.
Retailers can also sell any SRL that has been certified by the earlier version of the standard that they may have in stock. However, any SRL manufactured after February 1st, 2023 must meet the technical and labeling criteria laid out in the latest revision.
Types of SRLs and When to Use Them
The 2021 revisions of the standard for SRDs introduced substantial changes to the types and classes of SRLs. Here is a brief description of the current types and their relationship with the classes from the earlier version of the standard.
Class 1 and Class 2 SRLs
Earlier versions of the standard separated SRLs into Class A and Class B devices.
These classifications were based on the required arrest force and distance, with Class A devices requiring less clearance than Class B.
These devices are now referred to as Class 1 and Class 2, but the change isn’t just superficial. The classes are divided based on the height at which the SRL must be installed relative to the user’s dorsal D-ring:
- Class 1 SRL: Must be used with anchorage at or above the dorsal D-ring
- Class 2 SRL: Can be used with anchorage above or below the dorsal D-ring
Class 2 SRLs can be used to tie off at foot level, so long as the height difference between the anchor point and the D-ring is less than 5 feet.
SRL
Self-retracting lifeline is a broader term that encompasses all types of self-retracting lanyards. However, in the context of the new standard they are generally longer and sturdier than SRL-P devices.
SRL-P
Self-Retracting Lifeline for Personal Use (SRL-P) are lanyards designed for individual workers and are typically shorter than other types of SRLs.
These are commonly used in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and utilities.
SRL-R
Self-Retracting Lifeline for Rescue (SRL-R) are designed specifically for rescue operations. They are longer than personal SRLs and have additional features that facilitate rescue efforts, such as a controlled descent mechanism.
This category of SRLs is carried over from the previous revision.
SRL-LE
SRLs designated for leading edge applications (SRL-LE) no longer exist as a distinct category. Instead, they are included in Class 2 SRLs.
Are Shock Absorbers Required with SRLs?
Shock absorbing lanyards have long been a key element of fall protection systems. They are lanyards connected to a shock absorber pack and they dissipate the arresting force when the SRL kicks in, thereby minimizing the impact of a fall on the user’s body.
However, small falls have an impact on the body that is below the threshold established by legislation and standards. As such, if the free fall can be minimized, a shock absorbing lanyard might not be required.
Shock Absorbers and Class 1 SRLs
Since Class 1 SRLs are attached at or above the dorsal D-ring level and a maximum allowable free fall distance of 2 feet, a shock absorber is not required for these devices.
For example, personal devices (SRL-Ps) attached directly to the user’s D-ring (instead of an anchor point) don’t require a shock absorber on the lifeline so long as the SRD has other means of dissipating the arrest force (such as a deceleration mechanism that limits that arrest distance to 42 inches).
Shock Absorbers and Class 2 SRLs
Class 2 SRLs, however, allow for up to 6 feet of free fall, which could result in a major shock to the body. Because of this, Class 2 devices must have an integral energy absorber on the lifeline.
This is similar in function and design to the energy absorbers included in the energy absorbing lanyards used in rope-based vertical lifeline systems.
SRL vs. Vertical Lifeline with Shock Absorbing Lanyard
An SRD and a vertical lifeline system provide the same function: they arrest a fall if the worker falls from the work surface.
So, why choose one over the other?
SRL
The key difference is that an SRL continuously adjusts its length as the user moves across the work surface, giving them more room to work without creating any slack in the line.
This continuously tensioned line also minimizes the free fall distance, ensuring that the shock associated with the fall is kept within safe limits.
Vertical Lifelines
A vertical lifeline system should provide the same amount of protection. However, as the position of the rope grab attached to the shock absorbing lanyard must be continuously adjusted by the user as they change position on the work surface. This introduces many opportunities for the user to forget to move the rope grab, thereby increasing their potential free fall distance beyond what is considered safe.
Besides these errors, some users might be tempted to increase their mobility by allowing more slack on the line. This can also cause the potential free fall distance to go beyond the safe limit.
From this perspective, an SRD is a better, safer choice.
How to Choose Your SRL
With only three Types (SRL, SRL-P, and SRL-R) and two Classes of SRL, it might look like selecting an SRL would be an easy and straightforward process. However, there are many possible variants for any combination of Type and Class.
SRLs differ based on length, materials, user weight, and the work environment for which they are designed. The user’s preferences can also complicate the selection process.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting an SRL for a given job.
Anchor Point Height
When it’s possible to anchor the SRL above the D-ring height, you can choose either a Class 1 or Class 2 device.
However, when working on a flat surface, like a roof, where the anchorage is at foot level, you will be required to use a Class 2 device.
Same with any leading edge work, since Class 2 SRLs are the ones that meet the requirements for those work environments.
Distance From Anchorage
When the anchor point is in close proximity to the user and not much mobility is needed, an SRL-P might be the best option.
These devices are smaller, lighter, and less intrusive than other types of SRLs, which makes them more comfortable to use.
The most common lengths for these devices are 6 feet and 10 feet. When the distance from the anchorage is greater than that, a Class 1 or 2 SRL will be required, which can go up to 50 feet in length (although some specialized models can also reach up to 175 feet).
Weight Capacity
Self-retracting devices are weight-rated, meaning they have a maximum weight capacity they can safely support.
They can generally support between 130 and 310 pounds, with some models rated up to 420 pounds.
This includes the combined weight of the user and any equipment they’re carrying. It’s crucial to factor this in and ensure that the limit is never exceeded, as this can compromise the safety of the device and put the user at risk of serious injury in the event of a fall.
The weight rating is typically printed on the SRL itself or included in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Retrieval Capacity
SRL-R devices are designed for rescue operations and have unique features tailored for both fall arrest and retrieval. They allow a worker to be raised or lowered safely after a fall.
They’re also typically made of robust materials (like steel cables) that can withstand tough conditions, abrasion, and impact.
These are ideal for confined spaces or other environments where a rapid retrieval is critical.
Since retrieval mechanisms are costly, most SRLs don’t have rescue capabilities.
Work Environment
The right material for an SRL’s line will depend on the specifics of the work environment and the hazards workers might encounter.
While there is a large variety of materials used in the construction of lifelines, here are the materials most commonly used and their applications:
- Polyester Webbing: A strong, abrasion-resistant, and lightweight material that is suitable for general construction, manufacturing, and maintenance environments where there are no high temperatures or sharp edges.
- Kevlar Webbing: A highly heat-resistant and durable material that is ideal for environments with heat, sparks, and open flames, such as welding and metalworks.
- Galvanized Steel Cable: Suitable for industrial settings where sharp edges or abrasive structures could damage webbing lines. Galvanized steel is more affordable than stainless steel but can corrode if exposed to moisture long-term.
- Stainless Steel Cable: A durable and safer alternative to galvanized steel in wet or corrosive environments, such as offshore oil rigs, chemical plants, and maritime work.
SRL Inspection, Maintenance, and Recertification
Pre-Use Inspection
Like all other PPE, SRLs need to be inspected before each use.
A standard SRL inspection is a simple process that doesn’t take a long time. It must be done carefully, however.
Follow these steps to perform a basic (but thorough) overview of a self-retracting lifeline:
- Make sure the labels are visible and readable. As per the 2021 revision of ANSI’s SRD standard, new labels must be affixed to each device displaying its Class. The labels on Class 2 devices must also include a full fall clearance table.
- Examine and test the cable and webbing. Extract all cable and webbing to look for signs of damage, including burns, bends, bulges, and snags. After retracting the rope, pull on it sharply to make sure it performs properly.
- Check the other components. Look closely for signs of physical damage, wear, corrosion, or malfunctioning parts. Scuffs or minor indentations are fine, but cracks and weaknesses are not.
- Look for the load indicator. If the load indicator is visible, it means the device has been subject to a fall and must not be used.
Competent Person Inspection
OSHA and ANSI standards do not specify how frequently SRLs should be serviced. Instead, they defer to the manufacturers’ recommendations.
Canada’s CAN/CSA Z259.2.2-17 standard required SRLs to be returned to the manufacturer (or an agent approved by the manufacturer) no more than two years to the date of manufacture for inspection and maintenance, and annually thereafter. However, the 2022 revision of the standard redefined those intervals based on the types of use and can vary from quarterly to annually.
The 2022 version of the standard also introduces the practice of product re-validation, which varies from annual to every 5 years based on type of use.
Conclusion
SRLs are designed to arrest a fall and prevent workers from striking the surface below the work area. Standards have been updated recently, so fall protection details have changed. But ultimately, it all comes down to selecting the right type of device for the job and ensuring that all users are trained in how to use SRLs properly.
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