» SAFETY GUIDANCE NOTICE - PETZL SHUNTS Written by admin [Australian Rope Access Association Fri 15th May 2009
» NEW ROPE ACCESS ASCENDERS, DESCENDER AND BACK-UP DEVICE
» Micron - Micro Personal Evacuation Descender
» Safety & Health Expo 2008 - latest developments for work at height and rescue
» ALERT - HACA fixed rail vertical fall arrest system type 0529.7102
» NEW heightec fall protection Brochure
» New Suspension Trauma Lanyard
» A+A World Trade Fair - Dusseldorf September 2007
» Safety & Health Expo 2007
SAFETY GUIDANCE NOTICE - PETZL SHUNTS Written by admin [Australian Rope Access Association Fri 15th May 2009
NEW ROPE ACCESS ASCENDERS, DESCENDER AND BACK-UP DEVICE
Micron - Micro Personal Evacuation Descender
Safety & Health Expo 2008 - latest developments for work at height and rescue
ALERT - HACA fixed rail vertical fall arrest system type 0529.7102
NEW heightec fall protection Brochure
New Suspension Trauma Lanyard
A+A World Trade Fair - Dusseldorf September 2007
Safety & Health Expo 2007
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BACKUP DEVICES FOR ROPE ACCESS - 15/5/09
For some time, the ARAA has been considering whether we should take a stand on the inappropriate use of backup devices, recognising that in regards to the most commonly used device in the industry (Petzl Shunt), the manufacturer does not endorse the product for this use. We have received the attached letter from Spelean, the Australian importer of Petzl products. At the same time, before receipt of this letter, our recent Assessors Workshop discussed the issue at length and decided that we must recommend against the use of these devices. Accordingly, our recommendation is as follows: • Immediately discontinue use of any backup devices that are not automatic in function for ALL inexperienced users (this would generally be any Level 1 operator) • As soon as possible, discontinue use of these devices for all other operators except in situations where the use has been demonstrated by risk assessment to be necessary and then only for users who acknowledge their understanding of the limitations of the devices. The market now offers several alternative backup devices and while recognising that each has some limitations, it appears reasonably practical for most works, to use these devices. Users are reminded that most alternative devices have specific requirements in relation to lanyard length, use of energy absorbers, use in rescues etc. We strongly advise provision of necessary training and information when introducing these new products and work practices. On another related note, we also highlight the common usage of descenders that do not have a “panic stop” function. We strongly advise that use of “panic stop” descenders for all Level 1 operators and where practical, other operators as well. Peter Ferguson ================================ Petzl SHUNT - Statement by Spelean Pty Ltd The Petzl SHUNT, is in common usage for rope access work, all around the world as a back up rope grab. However, the Petzl SHUNT is neither recommended nor tested, by the manufacturer, for use as a back up rope grab for rope access. It has never been sanctioned for such use in any in any document published by Petzl. The Petzl ASAP (B71), with the correct personal energy absorber ie Absorbica (L57), ASAP’sorber 20 (B71 20) or ASAP’sorber 40 (B71 40) is the product in the Petzl range, designed specifically as a back up rope grab. Spelean, as the importer and distributor of Petzl products in Australia and in New Zealand, strongly recommends against the use of the Petzl Shunt as a back up rope grab for rope access work. GUIDANCE As guidance, for a competent user, who on their own recognizance, knowingly chooses to ignore the above information, the following information is provided: Neither the Petzl STOP, nor the Petzl SHUNT have an anti-panic function. There are a number of products, from a variety of manufacturers, supposedly designed with an antipanic mode. As mentioned above, the Petzl ASAP is the product in the Petzl range designed specifically as a back up rope grab, including for rope access work. It is a device that will operate at any time the descent speed is excessive or if a sudden load is applied. It is permanently poised to operate in an anti-panic mode. The Petzl I’D is a self-braking descender with anti-panic function for working on fixed ropes. The anti-panic function is engaged if the user lets go or pulls too hard on the handle, the pivoting cam is released and automatically brakes to stop the descent. There is also an anti-error safety cam to reduce the risk of an accident due to incorrect installation of the device on the rope. Using the above Petzl products as an example it would be possible to have a combination of products where at least one component had an anti-panic mode: Petzl STOP + Petzl ASAP would be OK, Petzl I'D + Petzl SHUNT would be OK, Petzl I'D and Petzl ASAP would probably be best (depending on the task) Spelean Pty Ltd Web Page http://spelean.com.au Back to top |
 heightec launches new range of devices designed for Rope Access Industry
We are pleased to announce the arrival of a new range of devices including the award winning PRISM descender, PULSAR and TWIST ascenders and MANTA back-up device designed specifically for the rope access industry. The new range offers users increased safety and functionality and enhanced performance without the need to change existing work practices. View our online technical demonstration showing the new range in use in work and rescue scenarios. We also show a parallel 200kg drop test of the new Manta back-up device and a industry standard device. Complete our online survey for a chance to win your own personalised etched set of the new range. For more details visit www.heightec.com/heightec_rope_access.html or click the link above. Back to top |
 a personal evacuation descent system allowing a person to make a controlled descent from a high level.
Potentially of use to anyone working at height but particularly people who work in small groups or in isolated locations where help would be slow to arrive. Weighing only 1.1Kg for a 30m descent kit the micron can easily be carried on the harness of the user. The key feature of the micron is its small size whilst still offering the functionality of a ‘full size’ system – hands free and ‘panic’ locking (the Micron will automatically stop if the user lets go or pulls the release handle too hard) and 125 Kg (20 stone) rated load. Other descent kits have achieved a similar size but at the expense of significant safety features such as auto locking. The simple operation and small size of the Micron give increased user acceptance over current equipment that is often left behind as it is deemed too bulky and heavy. The patented braking system allows the Micron to use an Aramid (kevlar) descent cord. The system allows controlled slippage in the event of a fall preventing the build up of dangerously high forces normally associated with Aramid cords. The Micron is a finalist in this years BSIF Innovation Awards. Back to top |
 heightec are showcasing new developments in height safety and personal rescue at the Safety & Health Expo in Birmingham in May.
There are no less than three innovations in the premium range of technical work harnesses: • interchangeable modular front connection systems to allow changes from one work method to another • new thermoformed plastic lumbar and leg padding, having an outer layer that is soft when unloaded, but stiffens under load • a radical new connection system at the harness chest position to simplify donning and to provide a perfect fit on different sized persons. The Micron is a new personal micro-descender for evacuation using high strength, heat resistant aramid cord. This tiny descender employs a unique, patented braking system to allow a finely controlled descent. The compact size with “full size” functionality will appeal to many industries, particularly renewables, electricity distribution, offshore oil platforms, tower crane drivers and police tactical units. The Micron has been entered into this year’s BSIF Innovation Awards. Also on show will the new Integra range of energy absorbing lanyards, containing suspension trauma footloops that deploy automatically in the event of a fall. For more details contact: Bob Murdoch 01539 728866 admin@heightec.com Back to top |
Safety warning: HACA fixed rail vertical fall arrest system type 0529.7102Manufactured by HACA Leitern, Lorenz Hazenbach GmbH, Bad Camberg, Germany BS EN 353-1:2002 Fall Arrest Equipment Warning 1. The fixed rail vertical fall arrest system type 0529.7102 manufactured by the German company HACA Leitern has failed tests under BS EN 353-1:2002, the appropriate standard for such equipment, and a further important test advised by HSE in 2004. HSE advises users to cease use of this particular device as a matter of urgency and consult with your safety adviser and supplier about a safe alternative.( See paragraph 2 for a description of this type of equipment). DETAIL 2. This warning concerns tests conducted by HSE on a fixed rail vertical fall arrest system, type 0529.7102, manufactured by HACA Leitern. This sort of device, covered by BS EN 353-1:2002, is used when climbing fixed ladders or rungs attached to fixed structures. Typically, a ladder will be fitted with a rigid anchor line - fixed rail or cable - running up it to which the device is attached. The user is attached to the device via their harness. As the user climbs or descends the ladder the device travels with them along the rail or cable. If the user falls, the device should lock onto the rail or cable thereby safely arresting the fall. 3. HSE carried out tests in accordance with the requirements of BS EN 353-1:2002 on the HACA Leitern Type 0529.7102 fixed rail vertical arrest system. Tests were also carried out using an anthropomorphic dummy to determine whether the fall arrest device would operate in the simulation of a backwards fall. The significance and desirability of such a test (a fall back test) is explained in an HSE Safety Warning issued after some earlier research on this type of device in 2004 hse.gov.uk/press/2004/e04074.htm which may be downloaded. This issue is also discussed in the (UK) National Annex (Informative) to BS EN 353-1:2002 4. The device failed to meet the test requirements stipulated in BS EN 353-1:2002. The device also failed to operate successfully during the additional ‘fall back test’. The table of results attached at Annex 1 details the tests carried out. Tests T1 and E1 show the results of the BS EN 353-1:2002 tests. Annex 2 shows photographs of some of the tests. ACTION ON USERS 5. All those using or having responsibility for this type of HACA Leitern 0529.7102 fixed rail fall arrest system should immediately cease using them. 6. Users of this HACA Leitern 0529.7102 equipment and users of other fall arrest equipment of the Vertical Rigid Rail type or Vertical Guided Type covered by BS EN 353-1:2002 are advised to consider the safety of their systems of work and the application of hierarchy of precautions in the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and, in particular, to ensure that the important information contained in the 2004 HSE Safety Warning is heeded. HSE tests have shown that the use of an anthropomorphic dummy can provide a useful contribution towards determining a safe system of work. ACTION BY HSE 7. Inspectors will be made aware of the information contained within this safety warning and it will contribute towards the enforcement decisions being made by them. SUPPLIERS 8. The supply of this device is covered by the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002, which are administered by BERR. HSE has provided information to BERR who are taking action to deal with supplier and EU issues. ANNEX 1 Table of test results Tests on 26/7/07 Description Serial Number Results/Comments T1 BS EN 353-1:2002 (100 kg steel weight) 700821H Runner arrested after 2mm Peak load = 9.23 kN Weight drop distance = 0.35m T2 Fall Back (70 kg dummy) Similar to BS 5062:1:1985 700821H Runner arrested after 2.43m Dummy dropped 3.3m T3 Sit Back ( 70 kg dummy) 700821H Runner failed to arrest fall Dummy landed on head Tests on 29/8/07 E1 BS EN 353-1;2002 (100 kg steel weight) 700830H Runner arrested after 3 mm Peak load = 6.3 kN Weight drop distance = 0.14m E2 Fall Back (70 kg dummy) Similar to BS 5062:1:1985 700824H Runner failed to arrest fall Dummy landed on feet/knees E3 Sit Back (70 kg dummy) 700831H Runner failed to arrest fall Dummy landed on head E4 Sit Back (70 kg dummy) 700831H Runner failed to arrest fall Dummy landed on head Back to top |
 heightec's new equipment brochure now available.
Anyone who would like a copy of the new heightec specialist work at height kit and rescue system brochure please email us or call 01539 728866.
Back to top |
 heightec Received a British Safety Indsutry Federation Award for its New Suspension Trauma Lanyard
The heightec Group received a Highly Commended Award for their new Suspension Trauma LanyardTM by British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) at the recent Safety & Health Expo. The suspension trauma lanyard features the only integral, automatically deploying footloop available on the market. Able to provide immediate relief to a suspended person to prevent the onset of suspension trauma. The product is small, light and totally unobtrusive. Being integral to the energy absorbing lanyard, it cannot be lost, forgotten or incorrectly fitted. In the event of a fall the user can simply place one or both feet into the loop. Adjustment, if necessary, is a single handed, single action operation. “Suspension trauma is a current issue in the work at height industry. Virtually anyone who wears a harness at work may be at risk of suspension trauma (Harness Induced Pathology). The new Suspension Trauma LanyardTM is a big leap forward in reducing the risks associated with becoming suspended after a fall or even during a normal work related task.“ said Bob Murdoch, Sales Manager. “We are extremely pleased to receive recognition for this latest innovation which has a World Patent currently pending”. The HSE commissioned a research report on suspension trauma which runs over 100 pages. With the advent of the Work at Height Regulations 2005, companies are reviewing their procedures and taking measures to limit the risk of suspension trauma. Many have issued footloops to staff which are separate additions to harnesses, which must be deployed by the user. This can at best difficult and at worst impossible, particularly when the user would already be in some discomfort and have possible injury. To rescue a person suspended on a lanyard, heightec offers ScaffPackTM. This is a compact, self contained rescue system which allows a casualty to be recovered by a single rescuer, by controlled lowering or raising. The Innovation Award is given where a product or service gives evidence of a unique concept, design or performance or the innovative use of existing technology which is newly applied to occupational safety and health. For more information call Bob Murdoch on 01539 728866. Back to top |
 heightec exhibit at A+A, the world's major trade fair for Safety, Security and Health at Work show 18-21 September 2007.
Visit us on Stand 6B24, Hall 6www.AplusA.com Back to top |
 The heightec Group Exhibit at the Safety & Health Expo in 22-24 May 2007
At this years Safety & Health Expo at the NEC, Birmingham, heightec will be launching our NEW Suspension Trauma Lanyards (TM). Virtually anyone who wears a harness at work, may be at risk of Suspension Trauma (Harness Induced Pathology). The new Suspension Trauma Lanyard (TM) is a big leap forward in reducing the risks associated with becoming suspended after a fall or even during a normal work related task. This new product has been shortlisted in this year's BSIF Product Innovation Awards. We will be giving away free samples every day of the show. Numbers will be limited so please come early to avoid disappointment. Your free sample can be collected from our stand N30 in Hall 10. Also at the show we will be launching new comfort pad technology, never before used in the industrial harness sector. With improved comfort and load distribution this represents a major advancement in the design of personal fall protection equipment. Following lat years launch of a new range of rope access hardware last year we will be holding live demos and try before you buy sessions throughout the three days. We'll also be giving Equipment Discount Vouchers to everyone who visits our stand which can be used against purchases of our kits. We look forward to seeing you at the show STAND N30, Hall 10. Back to top |