One of the latest and most anticipated changes to occur this year relevant to fall protection is the publishing of the ANSI/ASSP Z359.14 2021 revision. Although the effective date isn’t until August 2022, this change is prompting the need for end user to prepare for using and understanding the new terminology performance requirements that will ultimately alter equipment selection criteria.

The reason for its relevance is mostly due to its industry dependence and the increasing popularity of these types of devices. This voluntary consensus standard accounts for a vast portion of the fall protection market equipment and has been adopted as the industry standard, even though it is not the legal requirement. To assure a smooth transition, the immediate priority should be to understand the changes and what it means from a usability standpoint. A clear understanding of what changes devices need to comply will allow users to proceed with a comprehensive transition plan.

What Are the Most Relevant Changes for the User?

Classes

The most significant changes are for Class A and B devices used to designate arrest distances and forces and the introduction of the Class 1 and 2 devices. These classes were known as designators for arresting falls at 24 inches and under with higher forces (Class A), and 54 inches and under with lower forces (Class B). Class 1 devices allow anchoring on overhead anchorages only and limitg freefall to no more than two feet.

Class 2 devices allow free fall to no more than six feet and must meet Class 1 and Class 2 requirements. Class 2 units can be used overhead and at foot level.

Another factor to the new standard is the absence of the term leading edge within the standard, which is now referred to as Class 2 performance test. This action is intended to promote the avoidance of potential leading-edge applications. However, will not prevent the manufacturer from promoting its product as acceptable for those types of applications.

The removal of these terms is intended to avoid the potential of a document falsely endorsing improper applications that could cause severe injury or death, even if the device functions as expected. It is expected that a user will be safe if they fall over an edge with a device stating it is designed for it, but beyond the edge lies many unknown hazards, such as swinging into a wall, equipment or any matter that could impale a user.

Types

In addition to classes, there are now three types that include; SRL, SRL-P(personal) and SRL-R(retrieval). These types may be a class 1 or 2. Type SRL is a self-retracting device that is only intended to be anchored to an anchorage connector and encompasses an extraction, retraction and braking function. Type SRL-P is a self-retracting device that encompasses all the same features as a type SRL, however is intended to be worn by the user. Type SRL-R is a self-retracting device that encompasses all features as a type SRL, but includes a retrieval mode intended for rescue.

Performance Requirements

Perhaps less relevant to the end user, the specified test mass in performance testing has been increased to 310 lb. to match the tested weight to the advertised weight rating. In addition, the static requirement has been increased to 3,600 lb. to match the minimum requirement of OSHA. With these two performance requirements upgrades, an unavoidable increase in robustness will be applied, which in certain circumstances will result in increase in weight and decrease in capacity.

Markings

In addition to all previous information required for self-retraction devices, there i a significant increase in mandated information and charts to be accompanied on the device. In some instances, it may be necessary for the manufacturer to add additional means of labelling to include all information.

These changes are coming fast and it’s important to reassess fall protection programs and making sure the transition will not affect daily work activity. If there is uncertainty on how to proceed, finding a trusted partner in fall protection is vital to remaining compliant and keeping the workforce safe.