Choice of carabiner for connecting a fall arrest device to the harness
Warnings
- Carefully read the Instructions for Use used in this technical advice before consulting the advice itself. You must have already read and understood the information in the Instructions for Use to be able to understand this supplementary information.
- Mastering these techniques requires specific training. Work with a professional to confirm your ability to perform these techniques safely and independently before attempting them unsupervised.
- We provide examples of techniques related to your activity. There may be others that we do not describe here.
Key issues and risks
Fall arrest devices are worn all day without being under tension, but must stop a fall at any time: their connectors must be secure and kept well positioned.
Monitoring during use is difficult, especially when connected to the dorsal point.
The most important risks to consider
Recommendation on carabiner and accessories
Semi-permanent connection
Whenever possible, use a semi-permanent connector that locks with a tool.
Equal strength in all axes (unless loaded over an edge).
No weak point like a carabiner's locking sleeve.
Can be opened with a generic tool (point), no specific wrench needed.
Frequent attachment
If your equipment must be frequently attached, use an Am’D TRIACT-LOCK or Am’D BALL-LOCK with a STRING positioning system.
Can be opened with a generic tool (point), no specific wrench needed.
Can be opened with a generic tool (point), no specific wrench needed.
Why this choice?
The risk of the locking sleeve rubbing and pressing against the harness attachment point cannot be reduced. Thus the choice must be for the strongest possible locking system.
It is important to optimize the connector's position so that it moves into proper position in a fall.
All Petzl energy absorbers are supplied with a STRING that must be used consistently.
Note: the CAPTIV bar may be used in place of the STRING. It prevents certain wrong positions, but does not offer the sling protection provided by the STRING.
Specific case of attachment to the dorsal point
Monitoring the carabiner during use is especially difficult when the fall arrest device is connected to the dorsal point.
In this case, the use of a RING OPEN is especially recommended.
Precautions for use
- Take every precaution when making the connection to the harness:
- analyze the situation to anticipate risks (for example moving through tight places that can cause rubbing on the carabiners)
- verify that the carabiners are correctly positioned and locked before using the system - With an auto-locking carabiner, check at each opening and closing that the sleeve is completely locked.
- If possible, before and during work, schedule some equipment inspection sessions with your co-workers to compensate for the lack of monitoring during use.
Notes
- The SL system is not recommended for this application
- The use of a carabiner with the TL or BL system without a carabiner positioning system is not recommended for this application
- A quick link that is tightened with a tool can be used; choose a shape suitable for the attachment points
