System Considerations
Lifehook® products are used under the supervision of trained and qualified safety and training professionals. Always follow instructions for proper installation, connection, service, and use. Inspect all components of a personal fall arrest system prior to each use.
Once a qualified person has determined that the training pole is plumb and in sound condition, measure the diameter of the pole where you plan to install the system and that location’s height above ground level. Thoroughly consider the needs of your training program.
Anchor Considerations
Connecting Device Considerations
Body Wear Considerations
Lifehook® systems are available with a variety of approved anchors for both traditional pole-top training and also as height-adjustable systems.
Lifehook® L55 systems are mounted at the top of the utility pole and feature a 360 degree rotating davit to provide fall protection to the climber as they move unencumbered up, down, and entirely around the utility pole. There are two standard bracket sizes to choose from, and custom made brackets are available to fit all classes and sizes of utility poles. A hot-dip galvanized coating is available for extended service life and is recommended for coastal locations.
Lifehook® FB6 systems can be installed at any height on the utility pole with a six to nine inch span. The davit of this system rotates up to 250 degrees on low-friction bearings. These types of anchors can be used as one-man systems, or in tandem with another Lifehook® anchor for training two climbers on a single pole. The smaller size makes the unit convenient to transport if training at multiple locations. Lifehook® FB6 anchors compare favorably in user safety, product strength, and service life to competing products.
Connecting Device Considerations
Lifehook® systems are engineered to be used with high quality (SRL) self-retracting lifelines. The SRL is of the locking fall arrest type and not of the controlled descent variety. The length of the self-retracting lifeline must be at least as long as the measurement from ground level to the point on the utility pole where a Lifehook® anchor will be installed.
Self-retracting lifelines are available in a variety of cable materials including synthetic webbing, galvanized cable, and braided stainless steel wire rope. The SRL must include a fall impact indicator, a self-locking carabiner, and tagline. At minimum, the SRL must have a working load capacity of at least 310 lbs., limit a free fall to 24 inches or less, and limit arresting force to 900 lbs. or less. Specifications such as working capacity, locking speed, arrest force, stop distance, and service intervals will vary by manufacturer.
Recommended Connecting Device: Miller RL50G | Spec Sheet PDF
(No Annual Factory Recertification Required)
Body Wear Considerations
Suggested Body Wear: Miller P950DQC-77 | Spec Sheet PDF
When selecting a harness, the buyer should keep the needs and preferences of the climbing apprentice in mind. Generally, the longer the climbing apprentice is required to be wearing a harness while training, the more comfortable the harness should be.
There are many choices in specifying a harness that will affect its level of comfort, utility, ease of use, and cost. For use as a component of Lifehook® systems, the harness must be of the full-body type, meet all regulatory standards, be sized appropriately for the climber and, at a minimum, feature a sub-pelvic strap and sliding back (dorsal) D-ring or web loop. For safety and ease of inspection, we recommend selecting a model that features a fall indicator; a portion of special stitching that will indicate that the harness has been subject to fall arrest forces above acceptable limits.
To optimize comfort, consider the style, size, and material of the harness. Most harness sizing is known as “universal-fit” which means one size (L-XL) is adjustable to fit most climbers. Other standard sizes available range from small to 3XL. You may also supply us with the climber’s measurements to custom order a harness tailored for a perfect fit. Custom harnesses may provide the most comfort to individuals weighing more than 310 pounds.
Another factor in the cost of a harness is the type of buckle or buckles used. The buckles used to fasten a harness on the climber will range, in order of convenience, from tongue buckles, mating buckles, friction (parachute style) buckles, to newer quick-connect (seat belt style) buckles. Again, the buyer should keep the needs and preferences of the climbing apprentice in mind.
Harnesses may be constructed from a variety of materials including nylon, polyester, and Nomex/Kevlar, to more comfortable stretchable elastomer webbing and cushioned tubular webbing. New designs include vest-style harnesses that are easier to don, provide high levels of comfort, and offer a wide variety of features and optional accessories. Important accessories to consider that enhance comfort include pads for the back, shoulder, and legs. Some harnesses feature belt loops to accommodate a lineman’s belt, and some are equipped with side D-rings for connecting a safety strap or other positioning apparatus.
