Yo-yo, self-retracting lifeline, self retractable lanyard, retracts, self-retracting devices, retractable lifelines…. The names for these lifesavers create a long and ever changing list depending on what region you’re from and what industry you work in. What you really need to know is that, yes, they are all referring to the same device. A lifeline that pays out, retracts, causes deceleration, and arrests as a fall occurs is classified as a retractable lifeline.
A fall protection yoyo harness is a type of lanyard that allows the user to freely move around the workspace as the lifeline cable extends out of the housing and, in turn, coils back up inside the shell as the worker gets closer to the unit again to keep the cable taut. This automatic feature eliminates the trip hazard commonly presented by a traditional lanyard.
Self-retracting lifelines are devices that are connected to a worker’s safety harness. If a fall occurs, the deceleration device can detect the fall and engage an automatic break to stop the lifeline from moving, thus arresting the fall. The braking mechanism is similar to that of a seatbelt because if you yank on the lifeline, it engages the brake, but if you smoothly pull the line in and out, it creates a fluid movement.
Retractable lifelines can certainly be used in a number of applications and positions. For use overhead, the retractable almost instantly arrests a fall and drastically minimizes fall distance when working at heights. Along with limiting fall distance, when the unit is anchored directly over the worker’s head, the possibility of a dangerous swing fall is significantly lowered.
Using SRLs horizontally presents two very important factors to be wary of, leading edges and fall clearance. If you are using the retractable lifeline in conjunction with a horizontal lifeline or have the potential to encounter a leading edge, you must use a specifically engineered leading edge SRL to ensure the cable won’t snap if a fall occurs. The other notable factor to look out for is calculating fall clearance. When the user is anchored off at foot-level and using a self-retracting device, it will take longer for the unit to detect a fall. Because of this, you must carefully consider the fall clearance needed before you choose an anchorage position.
OSHA has created standards for the personal fall arrest system to regulate equipment to comply with the arrest forces that the human body can withstand without serious injury. In OSHA standard 1910.140(d)(1)(i) it reads that the PFAS should, “Limit the maximum arresting force on the employee to 1,800 pounds (8 kN)”. The deceleration device (SRL or shock absorbing lanyard) satisfies this regulation.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 1910.140 states that “Self-retracting lifeline/lanyard means a deceleration device containing a drum-wound line that can be slowly extracted from, or retracted onto, the drum under slight tension during normal movement by the employee. At the onset of a fall, the device automatically locks the drum and arrests the fall.”
ANSI furthers the regulations for retracts and states that the manufacturer of your SRL should have the deceleration information clearly marked on the front or rear label of the lifeline housing.
1. Connectors – Connectors are any device that connects your fall protection harness to an anchor point (e.g. shock absorbing lanyards, lifelines, self-retracting lifelines (SRLs), and positioning devices). Account for potential fall distance when choosing a type of connecting device. Adding/using shock absorber lanyards reduces the fall impact forces on your body.
2. Deceleration Devices – Any mechanism that serves to dissipate energy during a fall. Suspension trauma can occur in as little as 15 minutes; do you have a rescue plan?
SRLs, or Self-Retracting Lifelines, are commonly used in industries like transportation, manufacturing, maintenance, steel production, building upkeep, and mining for tasks performed at heights or in confined spaces. To use SRLs safely, workers need to wear a full-body harness connected to a secure anchor point. These harnesses evenly distribute the fall arrest forces across the shoulder straps, thighs, and pelvis.
Full body harnesses typically have a fall arrest attachment at the center back, which connects to a quick connect buckle snap hook, carabiner with a swivel top, or scaffold hook. They may also have additional D-rings for work positioning or securing tools and equipment. These D-rings allow workers to attach accessories like carabiners and tool lanyards to prevent tools from falling and injuring people below.
All full-body harnesses must meet specific safety requirements and formal inspection set by organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), as well as legal standards from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). D-rings, carabiners, and snap hooks must withstand significant forces without damage. ANSI and ASSP standards are usually stricter and more detailed than OSHA guidelines because they are developed by safety experts, while OSHA is a government agency.
If you’re looking for top-notch fall protection gear, including Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs), connectors, nylon webbing harnesses, and more, make sure to explore Malta Dynamics’ extensive product line. Whether you work in transportation, manufacturing, maintenance, steel production, building upkeep, or mining, our range of equipment meets the highest safety standards. Your safety should never be compromised, and we’re here to ensure you have the best tools for a secure work environment. Shop with us today online or give us a call at (855) 781-9917. Your safety is our priority, and we’re here to assist you in making informed decisions to protect yourself and your team.
Shop SRLs, connectors, and more on our online store or by calling us at (800) 494-1840.
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