System Requirements
Compatibility of System Parts
Compatibility of Components and Subsystems
MSA Lanyards are designed to be used with MSA approved components and connecting subsystems. Use of MSA Lanyards with products made by others that are not approved in writing by MSA may adversely affect the functional compatibility between system parts and the safety and reliability of the complete system. Connecting subsystems must be suitable for use in the application (e.g. fall arrest, restraint, climbing protection, rescue or evacuation). MSA produces a complete line of connecting subsystems for each application. Contact MSA for further information. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with the component or connecting subsystem to determine suitability. For fall arrest applications using the lanyard, the maximum fall arrest force must not exceed 1,800 LBF (8 kN). Contact MSA with any questions regarding compatibility of equipment used with the lanyard.
Compatibility of Connectors
Connectors, such as D-Rings, snaphooks, and carabiners, must be rated at 5,000 LBF (22 kN) minimum breaking strength. MSA connectors meet this requirement. Connecting hardware must be compatible in size, shape, and strength. Non-compatible connectors may accidentally disengage (“rollout”). When using a snaphook to connect to an anchorage or when coupling components of the system together, be certain accidental disengagement (“rollout”) cannot occur. Rollout is possible when interference between a snaphook and the mating connector causes the snaphook's gate or keeper to accidentally open and release. Rollout occurs when a snaphook is snapped into an undersized ring such as an eye bolt or other noncompatibly shaped connector. Always verify compatibility of the connecting snaphook or carabiner with harness D-Ring or anchorage connector. Use only self-closing, self-locking snaphooks, carabiners or pin connectors with the harness.
Use only self-closing, self-locking snaphooks and carabiners to reduce the possibility of rollout. Do not use snaphooks or connectors that will not completely close when attached.
| • | Do not tie knots in a lanyard. |
| • | Do not hook the lanyard to itself. (Exception: FP5K tie-back snaphook) |
| • | Do not connect snaphooks and carabiners to each other. |
| • | Do not connect two (2) snaphooks to one (1) D-ring. |
| • | Connect only snaphooks and carabiners with a minimum gate strength of 3600 lbf (16 kN) directly to a horizontal lifeline. |
WARNING!
| • | DO NOT rely on feel or sound to verify proper snaphook engagement. Always check visually for proper engagement. Ensure that gate and keeper are closed before use. |
| • | Ensure Lanyard connectors are compatible with the attachments to which they are connected (to prevent rollout), and are fully closed and locked before use. |
Failure to follow this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.
Anchorages and Anchorage Connectors
Personal fall arrest system anchorages and connectors must be capable of supporting a static load, applied in each direction permitted by the system, of at least 5,000 lbf (22.2 kN).