GB2434173A - Fall-arrest system - Google Patents

Abstract

An inertia reel belt mechanism 3/4, secured to a workstation via permanent or semi-permanent fixture 2, which attaches to the user via a body harness (8) and easily removable safety clip such as a karabiner 5. The device allows for normal movement round the workstation but a sudden movement caused by the user falling will result in the arrest of the fall. The safety reel may be stowed at the lower end of the ladder (10, Fig 2) if this was the workstation in operation.

Description

<p>Falling Person Catcher The invention relates to improving the safety of

working from height. This includes working from ladders, roofs, masts etc. Working from height is a necessary activity for access, building, inspection and maintenance. However, it is widely regarded as being dangerous and accidents occur with frequency causing serious injury and even death.</p>

<p>One of the main reasons for this is the user slipping and falling from height. The object of this invention is to provide an improvement to safety.</p>

<p>The device is a modified inertia reel seatbelt, fastened securely to the top of the work platform. The length of belt will end in a safety clip, preferably a karabiner. A karabiner is a metal loop which can be easily opened and closed to make quick connections to ropes and similar devices as used typically in climbing.</p>

<p>The user will be required to wear a body harness which will connect to the karabiner and therefore the inertia belt. The harness will need to be selected appropriately for safety reasons.</p>

<p>This device will work in the same way as a vehicle seatbelt in that normal motion will allow for movement up and down the ladder, or around the work platform. Conversely, a sudden increase in speed, as caused by the user falling or slipping, will arrest the fall.</p>

<p>Drawings should clarify the usage of the device.</p>

<p>Figure 1 shows a basic drawing of the device and how it could be fixed to a ladder platform. In the instance of ladder usage, the feet would have to be secured to prevent the arrest causing ladder slippage.</p>

<p>o 1 indicates a commercially available ladder.</p>

<p>o 2 shows a potential means of fastening the device to ladder. In this case slings with the appropriate weight classification. This would make the device easy to attach and remove. Bolts would work equally well, but be permanent.</p>

<p>o 3 is the device. An inertia reel belt mechanism of variable length depending on the work station.</p>

<p>o 4 is the belt.</p>

<p>o 5 is the commercially available karabiner which will be incorporated into the belt and to which the user will attach their body harness Figure 2 shows how the user can work in a safe and efficient manner with a ladder platform. This drawing indicates a vertical wall, but could also apply to a roof.</p>

<p>o 6-thewall o 7 -the user at the top of the ladder o 8-the body harness o 9-the user at the foot of the ladder o 10 -Stowing safety belt ready for moving ladder o II -Anti-slip footing and stabiliser bar</p>

Claims (1)

1. <p>Claims 1. A modified inertia reel seatbelt, attached securely to a

   workstation at height, and also attached to the user so that slippage from the workstation will result in arrest.</p>

   <p>2. The belt will be of variable length depending on the workstation intended for use.</p>

   <p>3. The belt will end in a secure fastening, such as a karabiner.</p>

   <p>4. The karabiner will attach to the body harness worn by the user.</p>