Leading Edge Installation and Use

If a fall over an edge is possible, special rescue measures shall be defined and trained for. Consideration shall be given to accessing a suspended user without further loading or moving the lifeline over an edge.

WARNING! 

  • Leading Edge configurations shall only be used after all other hierarchy of controls, including restraint systems and overhead anchorages, have been exhausted.
  • Leading Edge configurations shall only be used in accordance with local regulations.
  • Leading Edge configurations shall be used in accordance with the instructions, warnings and limitations in these User Instructions.

Failure to follow these warnings can result in serious personal injury or death.

Horizontal Offset: When using V-TEC EDGE SRLs configurations in a horizontal (leading edge) application, lateral movements to both sides of the center axis shall be limited to a maximum 5 ft (1.5 m) when the unit is set back ≤ 5 ft (1.5 m). Large horizontal spans shall be avoided, as they can increase forces applied to the structure and introduce swing falls. Consult the anchor location information in Section Fall Clearance Charts for additional detail.

Edge Types: V-TEC EDGE SRLs configurations have been tested for horizontal (leading edge) use over a steel edge without burrs using the methods in ANSI Z359.14-2021 (Class 2) and CSA Z259.2.2-2017 (Class SRL-LE). Therefore, the V-TEC EDGE SRLs may be used where a fall may occur over similar edges.

Edge Types:V-TEC EDGE SRLs configurations have been tested for horizontal (leading edge) use over a steel edge without burrs using the methods in RFU VG Sheet 11.060. Therefore the V-TEC EDGE SRLs may be used where a fall may occur over similar edges.

Additionally, while the ANSI Z359.14- 2021 (Class 2) or CSA Z259.2.2-2017 (Class SRL-LE) standards do not address edges other than steel, the V-TEC EDGE SRL has been tested using the methods in ANSI Z359.14-2014 with the following edges:

Additionally, while the RFU VG Sheet 11.060 does not address edges other than steel, the V-TEC EDGE SRL has been tested using the methods in ANSI Z359.14-2014 with the following edges:

A cold formed corrugated steel test edge. Edges used for testing were at thicknesses ranging from 22 gage (0.0295" / 0.7493 mm) to 16 gage (0.0598" / 1.5189 mm). Therefore, V-TEC EDGE SRL configurations may be used where a fall may occur over similar edges.
A concrete test edge with a compressive strength of 4500 - 5000 psi manufactured with an unfinished 90° edge without roughness, chipping, or other irregularities. Therefore, V-TEC EDGE SRLs configurations may be used where a fall may occur over similar edges.

Edge Evaluation: Prior to use, leading edges must be evaluated by a qualified person. Use in these situations should only be as a last resort. Avoid working where the lifeline will continuously or repeatedly abrade against sharp, jagged, or abrasive edges. If the risk assessment indicates that an edge could damage the lifeline, then eliminate such contact or protect the edges using a pad or other means before starting work.

Anchorage Considerations: Horizontal (leading edge) use or anchoring at the feet of the user should be limited wherever possible to avoid the potential for swing fall and the possibility of the user striking a structure, potentially causing serious injury. To reduce the risk of a swing fall, anchor directly above the user.

The V-TEC EDGE SRL anchorage point shall be at the user’s foot level or above. Climbing above the anchorage point is not permitted. Measures shall be taken to prevent use over unintended edges. Do not work on the far side of an opening opposite the anchorage point or around corners.

WARNING! 

Anchor locations shall adhere to V-TEC EDGE SRLs perspective fall clearance charts, including a redirection angle ≥ 90 and set back ≥ 760 mm (30”); ensuring the correct function of the device in the event of a fall.

Failure to follow this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.

For CSA users: Deployment is equal to [D141 = 0.9] times [4 ft (1.23 m)] for a maximum worker 310 lbs (141 kg) or deployment based on the results of the dynamic performance testing specified in Clause 7.2, whichever is greater.