Tip of the Week No. 243 - 04/06/09 - Tying Off

Question: I have what I think is a basic question on fall protection. I've spent time looking at regulations on the Internet for requirements and information on tie-off techniques. There's lots of don'ts, but I was unable to find any clear information on how to properly tie off. I am aware that looping a cross-arm strap around and H or I beam provides good anchorage, but I'd like to know about other common ways to properly tie off.

Answer: Tie-off is a slang term which refers to a makeshift anchor for a lifeline or lanyard system whose sole criteria is the decision of an exposed worker.

The term Anchor means an engineered anchor and relates to an engineering drawing that confirms the anchorage connector (e.g. axial eyebolt or cinched strap) strength of 5,000 lbs or other strength as determined by a Qualified Person (Z359.1).

The ANSI Z359.2 standard describes requirements for anchor points. A future Z359 standard will refer to Horizontal Lifelines (HLL) and Rails. Presently there is a CSA standard and EN standard for the HLL.

Fall Protection is not PPE beyond the harness. It is an engineered system based on engineering principles to absorb the forces of deceleration.

Asking a worker to find an anchor which is 5,000 lbs is not fair to the equipment user. A large beam may appear to be 5000 lbs but no-one can tell without an engineer's calulation or template sketch communication for similar anchors. An anchor point should always be over head height. To go less means a free fall using a 6 ft lanyard.

The subject of pre-planning involves predicting where anchors should be located. Rescue planning requires the same for likely rescues and rescue practice sessions after designating and constructing Rescue Anchors.

To find out more see "Introduction to Fall Protection, 3rd Edition". This book is an invaluable resource for every safety manager's library. Click here to find out about ordering a copy. Order online now.