Apparatus and Method for Securing Fall Arrest Equipment

Abstract

An apparatus and method that allows a user to secure a fall arrest system to equipment in locations not originally intended to be used for fall safety equipment. By utilizing non-conventional anchor points to secure the fall arrest system, a user can provide adequate and compliant fall arrest protection on equipment without violating the environmental or structural integrity of the equipment.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for securing fall safety equipment. More specifically, the invention is directed to an apparatus and method for securing fall safety equipment to locations not originally intended to be used with fall safety equipment.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]It is currently a requirement that persons working above ground level, performing repairs, installing equipment, or performing maintenance, be outfitted with adequate protection against the possibility of accidental falls to the ground below. Because even a fall from a short distance can cause serious bodily injury or death, the ability to provide adequate fall protection is imperative. This is even true, when the height of the surface above the ground is as little as six feet, and some local and federal regulations require fall protection of some kind for all work above a height of as little as three feet above ground level. For example, Occupationa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]It is a principle object of the invention therefore to provide for an easily securable and easily removable apparatus to temporarily secure a fall arrest system to the roof of a structure, such as an electrical transformer, electric circuit breakers, switchgear, including metal clad switchgear and relay stations that will not damage the integrity of the structure. The invention advantageously utilizes structural elements of the structure itself that were not originally intended or previously used to secure fall arrest equipment as the anchor points for the fall arrest system.

Problems solved by technology

Because even a fall from a short distance can cause serious bodily injury or death, the ability to provide adequate fall protection is imperative.

It is often difficult however to find attachment points for portable overhead fall arrest systems that are suitable to accommodate the forces exerted by a falling worker.

Such fall arrest systems typically require invasive and permanent mounting points for the Maypole type device.

Also, these mounting points may damage the environmental and structural integrity of a structure or building, and are typically not suitable for use on roof tops, where mounting and environmental concerns are an issue.

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