This document provides guidelines and instructions for fall protection training. It discusses general fall protection guidelines, types of fall protection like guard rails and fall arrest systems, components of personal fall arrest systems including full body harnesses, connecting devices, and anchor points. It provides step-by-step instructions for putting on a full body harness, attaching to an anchor point, and removing equipment after completing a task. Safety protocols are emphasized throughout.

1. Omaha Standard Fall Protection Training

2. Fall Protection General Guidelines Inspect equipment before use. Faulty equipment must be repaired or replaced before using it. Follow guidelines for all off-the-ground locations. In addition, those with fear of heights should never be forced to climb.

3. Fall Protection General Guidelines Fall protection must be used by anyone working 4 feet off the ground. Exemptions: Working on a scissors lift and feet remain on flooring Climbing up and down ladders Appropriate railings are in place If unsure of any others, seek advice from a Supervisor or the Safety Director Never anchor to vents, piping, electrical conduit and other equipment not designed to withstand the required 5,000 pounds of force.

4. Guard Rails Guard Rails are designed to keep people from falling. They may be found around working platforms or walkways, and may be temporary or permanent. Guard rails are constructed to specific requirements that may include netting and toe boards to prevent people or equipment from falling. The rails must be able to support 200 pounds and be 39 to 45 inches above the walking surface.

5. Fall Arrest Systems A personal fall arrest system (PFAS) is used when guard rails cannot be used. A fall arrest system is designed to tether a worker to an anchor point. If a fall occurs, the fall will be halted by the tether. For personal fall arrest systems to work: all the components must be in good working order all components must be used properly.

6. System Components (Fall Arrest Systems) Personal fall arrest systems vary depending on the work being done. All, however, contain three components: 1. Full body harness 2. Connecting device 3. Anchor point

7. Full Body Harness Distributes the weight of the body using a series of straps across the shoulders and back, between the legs, and with a belt around the waist. A D-ring at the back serves as the connection point between the worker and the fall protection system.

8. Connecting Device A connecting device links the worker to the anchor point. The most common connecting devices are: lanyards short ropes or straps that limit falling distance retracting lifelines, which have a drum-wound line that allows a wider range of movement than a lanyard. Fixed lifelines also may be used when horizontal or vertical mobility are needed. For example, a fixed vertical lifeline can be used on a ladder.

9. Anchor Point The connecting device is attached to an anchor point that will support the worker’s weight, should a fall occur. Anchor points must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds because a falling person exerts significant force. Fixtures such as pipes and electrical conduit must never be used as anchor points.

10. Inspection and Maintenance Check for frayed or broken harness straps, and make sure the D-ring is securely attached and not bent. All harness components should be checked for tears, missing stitches or damaged hardware. All connecting devices should be inspected for correct operation. Self retracting lanyards should automatically lock when pulled quickly but let out cable and retract when operated slowly. Examine all components before each use:

11. Putting On The Full Body Harness Unfasten the waist belt, the chest strap, one shoulder strap and both leg straps. With the D Ring to the rear or the harness, insert corresponding arm through the fastened shoulder strap and place the unfastened shoulder strap over your head and onto your shoulder. Fasten the unfastened shoulder strap and adjust both shoulder straps so that they are snug but comfortable. Fasten the waist strap and the chest strap so they are snug but comfortable. Secure leg straps snugly around legs. The harness should feel snug but not too tight as to restrict circulation or excessively inhibit movement. The waist strap should be placed at or slightly above the waist of regular work pants. Periodic readjustment may be necessary to maintain the proper harness position or to regain a level of comfort. TRY TO PUT ON THE HARNESS NOW

12. Attaching the D Ring If an extension lanyard is being used, it may be installed onto the D Ring prior to donning the Full Body Harness, or with the help of an assistant. Taking one of the spring loaded hooks, latch the hook so that it is secured through the D Ring. Lock the hook using the slide lock (if equipped) Check the opposite hook to make sure the spring snap works properly before continuing.

13. Attaching to the Anchor Climb up the ladder next to the entrance of the elevated work area. If using a self retracting lifeline, safely connect the unconnected hook to the anchor point on the lifeline and check that the self retracting function is working properly. If a preassembled rope lifeline or strap lifeline are used, safely connect the lifeline that is to be used to the anchor point, if not already accomplished, and then connect the opposite end of the life line to your lanyard. Check for security. If a trolley is used, verify that the connection is secure and that the trolley moves smoothly. NOTE – ENSURE THAT THE LENGTH OF LIFELINE AND LANYARD DOES NOT EXTEND TO MORE THAN 4 FEET ABOVE THE NEXT LOWER LEVEL, OR THE FALL PROTECTION WILL NOT PERFORM AS DESIRED.

14. After The Task Is Completed Once all work has been accomplished and it is time to exit the hazardous work area, step back onto the ladder or safety platform prior to removing the lanyard from the anchor point. In a safe manner, disconnect the lifeline from your lanyard. If using a preassembled rope lifeline or strap lifeline, and it is customary, leave the anchor point connection in tact for future use. Climb down the ladder to a safe footing before attempting to remove the Full Body Harness. Once on the ground, remove the harness using the donning procedure in reverse order: Unfasten the leg straps Unfasten the chest and waist straps Unfasten one shoulder strap and remove the unit from over the top of your head. Refasten the straps to keep the harness from getting frayed or damaged when not in use.

15. Review The three components to a Personal Fall Arrest System are the Full Body Harness, Connecting Device and Anchor Point. When donning the harness, make sure the D Ring is in the rear, unfasten all but one shoulder strap and then position over your head. Make sure all straps are secured snugly but not uncomfortably. Attach the lanyard to the D ring and ensure it is locked. Attach the lifeline to the anchor point, if it is not already attached. Attach the lanyard to the lifeline when in a stable position beside the work area, in a safe manner. Test the lines for security. Perform the tasks. Remove the lanyard from the lifeline in a safe manner. Reverse the steps to remove the harness once on safe footing. CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE REQUIRED TRAINING FOR FALL PROTECTION. REMEMBER, SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY!