SAFEWAZE 020-6042 Rescue Ladder Instruction Manual

: June 16, 2024
: SAFEWAZE

SAFEWAZE 020-6042 Rescue Ladder

Product Information

Specifications

Product Name: Rescue Ladder
Model Numbers: 020-6041 (Rescue Ladder), 020-6042 (Rescue Ladder w/ Belay)
Length: 22 feet
Compliance: Complies with OSHA 1910.66 and OSHA 1926.503
Rescue Plan Requirement: Ensure a written rescue plan, system, and method are in place and easily accessible for rapid deployment and use
Additional Rescue Information: For additional rescue information, refer to ANSI Z359.4-2013

Product Usage Instructions

User Information

Date of First Use:
Serial#:
Trainer:
User:

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the SafeWaze Rescue Ladder. This manual
must be read and understood in its entirety and used as part of an
employee training program as required by OSHA or any applicable
state agency. This manual and any other instructional material must
be available to the user of the equipment. The user must understand
how to safely and effectively use the Rescue Ladder and all rescue
equipment used in conjunction with it.

Applicable Safety Standards
When used according to instructions, the SafeWaze Rescue Ladder fully complies with all applicable ANSI Standards and OSHA Regulations. Applicable standards and regulations depend on the type of work being done, and may include state-specific regulations. Refer to local, state, and federal (OSHA) requirements for additional information concerning the governing of occupational safety regarding Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS).

Worker Classifications
Understand the definitions of those who work in proximity to or may be exposed to fall hazards.

Qualified Person: Qualified means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated their ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.
Competent Person: Competent Person means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Authorized Person: Authorized person means a person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or duties or to be at a specific location or locations at the job site.
It is the responsibility of a Qualified or Competent person to supervise the job site and ensure safety regulations are complied with.

Product Specific Applications
Purpose: The SafeWaze Rescue Ladder is designed to be used as a rescue system to return fall victims to safety.

FAQ

Can the Rescue Ladder be used for any other purposes?
No, the Rescue Ladder is specifically designed for rescue operations and should not be used for any other purposes.
How long is the Rescue Ladder?
The Rescue Ladder has a length of 22 feet.
Where can I find additional rescue information?
For additional rescue information, please refer to ANSI Z359.4-2013.

SAFETY INSTRUCTION

WARNING
This product is part of a personal fall arrest system, work positioning, suspension or rescue system. The manufacturer’s instructions must be provided to users of this equipment. The user must follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each component of the system. The user must read and understand these instructions before using this equipment. Manufacturer’s instructions must be followed for proper use and maintenance of this equipment. Alterations to this product, misuse of this product, or failure to follow instructions may result in serious injury or death.
IMPORTANT
Questions regarding the use, care, or suitability of this equipment for your application? Contact SafeWaze.
IMPORTANT
- Record identification information before using this product. Identification information may be found on the equipment label. This information should be recorded in the “Inspection Log” located at the back of this manual
- Complies with OSHA 1910.66 and OSHA 1926.503
- Ensure a written rescue plan, system and method are in place and easily accessible for rapid deployment and use.
- Rescues may require specialized equipment or methods that are beyond the scope of this product. For addtional Rescue information see ANSI Z359.4-2013
- This manual is intended to meet the manufacturer’s instructions as required by ANSI Z359 and should be used as part of an employee training program as required by OSHA.

User Information

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the SafeWaze Rescue Ladder. This manual must be read and understood in its entirety, and used as part of an employee training program as required by OSHA or any applicable state agency. This manual and any other instructional material must be available to the user of the equipment. The user must understand how to safely and effectively use the Rescue Ladder, and all rescue equipment used in conjuction with such.

APPLICABLE SAFETY STANDARDS

When used according to instructions, the SafeWaze Rescue Ladder fully complies with all applicable ANSI Standards and OSHA Regulations. Applicable standards and regulations depend on the type of work being done, and may include state- specific regulations. Refer to local, state, and federal (OSHA) requirements for additional information concerning the governing of occupational safety regarding Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS).

WORKER CLASSIFICATIONS

Understand the definitions of those who work in proximity of or may be exposed to fall hazards.

Qualified Person: “Qualified” means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.
Competent Person: “Competent Person” means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Authorized Person: “Authorized person” means a person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or duties or to be at a specific location or locations at the job site.
It is the responsibility of a Qualified or Competent person to supervise the job site and ensure safety regulations are complied with.

PRODUCT SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS

Purpose: The SafeWaze Rescue Ladder is designed to be used as a rescue system to return fall victims to safety.

A competent person shall train users on this equipment in accordance with OSHA and ANSI.
Never exceed a free fall distance of 6 ft. A free fall of more than 6 ft could cause excessive arrest forces that could result in serious injury or death.
The SafeWaze Rescue Ladder has a maximum capacity of ANSI 310 lbs including any tools, clothing, accessories, etc…, OSHA 420 lbs, unless otherwise rated by Safewaze.
Attachment of the SafeWaze Rescue Ladder can be made to the existing anchor point or a new anchor location.
The SafeWaze Rescue Ladder must be inspected prior to use, and after any rescue operation.
Safewaze Rescue Ladders shall be inspected by the end user prior to each usage and by a Competent Person at least annually. These inspections shall be documented.

LIMITATIONS

Fall Clearance: There must be sufficient clearance below the anchorage connector to arrest a fall before the user strikes the ground or an obstruction. When calculating fall clearance, account for a MINIMUM 2’ safety factor, deceleration distance, user height, length of lanyard/SRL, and all other applicable factors (See Figure 1).

Swing Falls:
Prior to installation or use, make considerations for eliminating or minimizing all swing fall hazards. Swing falls occur when the anchor is not directly above the location where a fall occurs. Always work as close to in line with the anchor point as possible. Swing falls significantly increase the likelihood of serious injury or death in the event of a fall (See Figure 2).

COMPATIBILITY OF CONNECTORS

Connectors are compatible with connecting elements when they have been designed to work together in such a way that their sizes and shapes do not cause their gate mechanisms to inadvertently open regardless of how they become oriented. Connectors (hooks, carabiners, and D-rings) must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN). Connectors must be compatible with the anchorage or other system components (See Figure 4). Do not use equipment that is not compatible.
Non-compatible connectors may unintentionally disengage (See Figure 3). Connectors must be compatible in size, shape, and strength. Self-locking snap hooks and carabiners are required by ANSI Z359 and OSHA guidelines. Contact Safewaze if you have any questions about compatibility.
NOTE: SOME SPECIALITY CONNECTORS HAVE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS. CONTACT SafewazeWITH QUESTIONS.
Using a connector that is undersized or irregular in shape (1) to connect a snap hook or carabiner could allow the connector to force open the gate of the snap hook or carabiner. When force is applied, the gate of the hook or carabiner presses against the non-compliant part (2) and forces open the gate (3). This allows the snap hook or carabiner to disengage (4) from the connection point.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Snap hooks and carabiners used with this equipment must be double locking and/or twist lock. Ensure all connections are compatible in size, shape and strength. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Ensure all connectors are fully closed and locked.
Safewaze connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be used only as specified in each product’s user’s instructions. See Figure 4 for examples of inappropriate connections. Do not connect snap hooks and carabiners:
- To a D-ring to which another connector is attached.
- In a manner that would result in a load on the gate (with the exception of tie back hooks).
- NOTE: Large snap hooks must not be connected to objects which will result in a load on the gate if the hook twists or rotates. Snap hooks marked with ANSI Z359.12 and are equipped with a 3,600 lb (16 kN) gate. Check the marking on your snap hook to verify its compatibility.
  NOTE: Large throat snap hooks must not be connected to standard size D-rings or similar objects which will result in a load on the gate if the hook or D-ring twists or rotates, unless the snap hook complies with ANSI Z359.12 and is equipped with a 3,600 lb (16 kN) gate. Check the marking on your snap hook to verify that it is appropriate for your application.
- In a false engagement, where features that protrude from the snap hook or carabiner catch on the anchor, and without visual confirmation seems to be fully engaged to the anchor point.
- To each other.
- By wrapping the web lifeline around an anchor and securing to lifeline except as allowed for Tie Back models.
- To any object which is shaped or sized in a way that the snap hook or carabiner will not close and lock, or that roll-out could occur.
- In a manner that does not allow the connector to align properly while under load.

SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS

Rescue/Confined Space: The Rescue Ladder is authorized for use in Rescue/Confined Space applications. Rescue systems are utilized to safely recover a worker from a confined location or after exposure to a fall. Composition of rescue systems can vary based upon the type of rescue involved. Per ANSI Z359.1-2020: A certified rescue anchor (i.e., a manufactured anchor with documentation and installed by a Qualified Person) must have a static strength that is five times the applied load. In a system that was strictly used for vertical retrieval (no freefall potential), the applied load would be determined by the weight of the person being retrieved and the geometry of the rescue system. When looking at a non-certified rescue anchor (i.e., securing an anchor strap around a piece of structural steel), ANSI would require it to be able to support 3,000 lbs. For rescue applications, the allowable attachment points to harness are Dorsal D-ring, Chest D-ring and Shoulder D-rings.
All above referenced applications have a worker weight capacity range of ANSI 130-310 lbs (including all clothing, tools, and equipment), OSHA 420 lbs.

RESCUE LADDER COMPONENTS

A. Carabiner(s)
B. Outer Bag
C. 22’ Rescue Ladder
D. Belay Rope
E. Rope Grab

INSTALLATION & USE

The SafeWaze Rescue Ladder should be stored in a prominent location that is quickly accessible and in close proximity to individuals working at heights. All employees must be trained in the location, and proper use of, the Rescue Ladder (See Figure 1 and Figure 2).
After a fall event, the employee attempting the rescue must first ensure that the fall victim is conscious and not injured to an extent that would inhibit their ability to use the Rescue Ladder. If the victim is conscious and uninjured, the rescuer will obtain the rescue ladder from it’s predetermined location (See Figure 3).
WARNING: The individual performing rescue operations must ensure they follow all fall protection guidelines as rescue is peformed.
After obtaining the Rescue Ladder, the rescuer will attach the ladder to a suitable anchorage point. The fallen victim’s own anchor point can be used, or if impractical to do so, connected to a separate anchor point. Ensure that the separate anchor point is in close enough proximity to the fall victim to conduct the rescue. Connect to the suitable anchorage point by opening the top of the Rescue Ladder Bag, and attach the top of the ladder assembly to the anchor point via the supplied carabiner (See Figure 4).
WARNING: The anchor structure must be capable of supporting the applied loads. Use only with anchors that meet the requirements stated in “Specific Applications.”
Once the Rescue Ladder is secured to the anchor point, the rescuer will drop the bag to deploy the Rescue Ladder. The rescuer must avoid hitting the fall victim when dropping the Rescue Ladder (See Figure 5, 6, 7).
Once the Rescue Ladder is deployed, the fall victim can begin climbing the Rescue Ladder to safety (See Figure 8).
WARNING: Do not remove or disconnect any fall protection equipment.
If the Rescue Ladder with Belay is being used (012-6042), deployment of the ladder is performed in the same manner as the 020-6041 (See Figure 9, 10,11). Prior to the fall victim beginning to climb however, the belay rope will be attached to the harness D-ring via the supplied carabiner. DO NOT REMOVE ORIGINAL FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT! The user will then begin climbing to safety, while the rescuer removes excess slack from the belay rope by pulling rope through the rope grab. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO HOIST THE FALL VICTIM, BUT ALWAYS MAINTAIN CONSTANT TENSION ON THE ROPE AS WORKER CLIMBS THE RESCUE LADDER (See Figure 12). The rope grab is NOT to be used as a controlled descent device.

WARNING

Users should consult with their doctor to verify ability to safely absorb the forces of a fall arrest event. Fitness level, age, and other health conditions can greatly affect an individuals ability to withstand fall arrest forces. Women who are pregnant, individuals considered minors must not use any Safewaze equipment.
Never alter any part or add/remove components. Safewaze shall not be held responsible for injury or death due to tampering.
Equipment that is exposed to fall arrest forces MUST be IMMEDIATELY removed from service and destroyed.
Failure to follow these instructions and warnings could result in serious injury or death in the event of a fall.
A preplanned rescue procedure in the event of a fall is required. The rescue plan must be specific to the project. The rescue plan must allow for employees to rescue themselves, or to be promptly rescued by alternative means.
Harnesses or connectors selected for use with any Safewaze Rescue Ladder must be compatible in size and configuration. User must ensure compatibility of snap hooks, carabiners and other connectors. Any connection which could allow disengagement must be eliminated. Snap hooks and carabiners must be self locking and self closing and must never be hooked to each other.
A Competent Person must conduct an analysis of the workplace and anticipate where workers will be conducting their duties, the route they will take to reach their work, and the existing and potential fall hazards they may be exposed to. The Competent Person must choose the fall protection equipment to be utilized.
Do not misuse equipment.
Equipment designated for fall protection must never be used to lift, hang, support or hoist tools or equipment unless specifically certified for such use.

INSPECTION

Safewaze Rescue Ladders shall be inspected by the user prior to each use and at least annually by a Competent Person. Annual Inspections must be documented. Severity of conditions during use may neccesitate increased frequency of documented inspections.
Rescue Ladders that fail inspection MUST be removed from service.
Prior to each use, inspect the Rescue Ladder for deficiencies or damage, including, but not limited to, sharp edges, rough edges, deformations, corrosion, pits, burrs, chemical exposure, extreme heat exposure, or missing or illegible labels. If any deficiencies or defects are found, the Rescue Ladder must IMMEDIATELY be removed from service.

WARRANTY

Safewaze warrants its products are free from defects in materials and construction under normal use and service. Liability is not accepted for abuse, modification, improper use, destructive activity and contaminated exposure.

MAINTENANCE & STORAGE

The Rescue Ladder can be cleaned with water and mild soap if necessary. User should remove all dirt, possible corrosives, and contaminants from the anchor prior to, and after each use. Never use any type of corrosive substance to clean the anchor.
Excess water should be blown out with compressed air. Hardware can be wiped off with a clean, dry cloth.
When not in use, store the Rescue Ladder in a cool dry area where it will not be exposed to extreme light, extreme heat, excessive moisture, or possibly corrosive chemicals or materials.