Full Description

1.1This standard covers the specifications and qualification testing of the following:

Climbers,

Climber straps,

Climber Pads,

Climber Footplates,

Body Belts,

Work Positioning Devices with Locking Snaphooks/Carabiners,

Wood Pole Fall Restriction Devices (WPFRD),

Arborist Saddle,

Harnesses,

Energy Absorbing Lanyards.

These devices are used by workers in the climbing of poles, trees, towers, and other structures. Minimum performance criteria for arc resistance of harnesses and energy absorbing lanyards are included for workers who may be exposed to thermal hazards of momentary electric arcs or flame.

1.2Equipment may fall within one of the following categories:

1.2.1Fall (Travel) Restraint-Prevents a user from reaching a fall hazard (allow 0 fall distance).

1.2.2Work Positioning-Allows a 2 ft maximum free fall distance.

1.2.3Fall Arrest-Allows a 6 ft maximum free fall distance with a maximum arrest force of 1800 lb.

Note 1:Under certain conditions and with the use of equipment designed for such conditions, a 12-ft free-fall distance with a maximum arrest force of 1800 lb is allowed.

1.2.4Suspension-Allows 0 free-fall distance while supporting the users weight.

1.2.5Fall Restriction-to prevent or limit free fall from a work position or while ascending/descending a wood pole.

1.3Three types of climbers, (Types A, B, and C) and two types of climber straps, Types (A and B) are covered.

1.4Two types of body belts, (Types A and B) are covered.

1.5Eight types of work positioning devices: three positioning straps, (Types A, B, and C), three adjustable-positioning lanyards, (Types A, B and C) and two nonadjustable positioning lanyards, (Types A and B) are covered.

1.6Two types of WPFRD, (Types A and AB) are covered.

1.7Arborist saddle, (Type A) Work Positioning and Suspension are covered.

1.8Two types of harnesses, (Types A and B) are covered.

1.9Two types of energy absorbing lanyards, (Types A and B) are covered.

1.10The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.11The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test method portions, 9.2, 10.3, 11.2, 14.1.4, 15.3, 15.4, 16.2, 17.2, 18.4, 21.2, 22, 23, and 25 of this standard: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.