HERE - Workplace Safety and Health Council

Table 1: Classes of anchor devices.Minimum2.5mLimit of distance to roof edge for deadweight anchor devices2.5 Anchor SlingsAnchor slings are designed to be wrapped aroundfeature of a structure (e.g., steel beam).Anchor slings made from textiles (e.g., webbing) shouldhave a minimum breaking strength of 22kN while theminimum breaking strength of anchor slings madefrom wire rope or chain should be 15kN, in accordanceto BS 8347 : 2005 Code of practice for selection, use andmaintenance of personal fall prevention systems andequipment for use in the workplace.12.6 Correct and Incorrect Anchor PointsPersonal fall prevention systems should not be connected or tied-off to inadequate or improperanchor points. These could fail to provide the intended protection, and may result in fatalities.When assessing by competent person on existing structural features or equipment for usedas anchor points, avoid corners or edges that could cut, chafe, or abrade fall preventioncomponents.The following areas should never be used as anchor points unless the minimum structuralrequirements have being determined to be safe and approved by a competent person:• standard guardrails;• standard or balcony railings;• ladders or rungs;• scaffolding;• light fixtures;• conduit or plumbing;• ductwork or pipe vents;• C-clamps;• wiring harnesses;• rebar (except for positioning during formwork);• another lanyard;• roof stacks, vents, fans or chimney;• TV antennas; and• any point which does not meet the structural requirements.Due to the weakening effect, the looping of anchorslings or other lanyards through themselves (known as“lark’s footing or “choking”) should be avoided unlessthey are designed to allow this.Figure 6: Example of an anchor sling.Figure 7: Excessive looping of ananchor sling should be avoided(unless otherwise stated inmanufacturer’s manual).Figure 8: Fall prevention systems should not be connected directly to portable ladders that are leanedagainst any structures for the purpose of access. It should be connected to a proper anchorageadjacent to the ladder. A connection to a portable ladder should only be made if the top of the ladderis properly secured and the system tested by a competent person.12 13