BRUTE Rescue Retrieval SRL, 20 m Galvanised Steel Wire Rope

BUYER'S GUIDE

Self-Retracting Lifelines (Retractable Fall Arrester Blocks)

A self-retracting lifeline is a portable device fixed to an anchorage above the work area that acts like an automatic taut lanyard. The line pays out and retracts as the user moves, and at the onset of a fall the braking mechanism locks and spreads the fall energy over a short distance to limit the force on the body.

1. Anchor the block above the work area so the user can move freely between levels; the line stays taut, which suits sloping roofs and angular structures.
2. In a fall the block locks immediately and reduces the applied force to less than 6kN; the catalogue gives 2.4m as the required distance below the working surface to the nearest obstruction when using an SRL.
3. Retractable blocks are intended for vertical use by personnel weighing up to 140kg and are available with stainless steel wire, galvanised wire rope or webbing lifelines, certified to EN 360:2023.
4. Use a tag line to pull the lifeline down and to let it recoil under control, because releasing the line suddenly can lock the block.
5. Check the impact indicator on the harness end connector before use; if it shows a fall has occurred, take the unit out of service for inspection.
6. Have retractable blocks examined and serviced at least once a year by the manufacturer or its authorised representative.

Summarised from the manufacturer's catalogue. Selection must follow your site risk assessment and the competent person's judgement.