The Construction Source

Some of the most dangerous aspects of working at height are leading edge situations. This is work conducted with an unpro- tected edge, perimeter or bor- der where a fall hazard exists. Typically, a leading edge situa- tion will force a lifeline or lan- yard to ‘bend’ over the edge in the event of a fall over the edge. Additionally, many leading edg- es also present sharp edge haz- ards that can fray or even sever a lifeline as it bends over the edge. Here are some other risks that exist due to leading and sharp edge situations: • Increased fall distance be- cause typical anchor point is at foot level • Unpredictable lock up speed – a self-retracting device will only sense a fall when user’s D-ring moves past the leading edge • Increased fall clearance re quirement due to the in- creased fall distance • Increased arresting forces • Potential for sharp edge to cut or severely damage life line • Increased potential for swing falls Currently, the ANSI/ASSP Z359.14 standard for Self-Re- tracting Lifelines (“SRLs”) has specific test criteria that include testing to simulate added free fall distance, testing performed over sharp steel edge (.005 inch radius), and testing for swing fall over steel edge as well as straight down. One of the Leaders in Leading Edge Protection FEBRUARY 2020 “Typically, a lead- ing edge situa- tion will force a lifeline or lanyard to ‘bend’ over the edge in the event of a fall over the edge.”