Ritz Safety RTZ6756RS Work Positioning Device Instruction Manual

Ritz Safety RTZ6756RS Work Positioning Device

Product Information

• Specifications:
  • Manufacturer: Ritz Fall Protection
  • Models: RTZ6756RS, RTZ30796
  • Standards: ANSI Z 359.3-2017, OSHA 1926
  • Compliance: Fall Arrest system compliant with OSHA regulations

Product Usage Instructions

• Description:
  • The work positioning devices are designed for use as part of a personal fall protection system. The components are approved for specific operations and must not be used for any other purpose.
• Application:
  • These devices are intended for fall protection purposes and must be used by OSHA regulations. Fall restraint systems should be designed by a Qualified Person and used under competent supervision.
• System Requirements:
  • All authorized users must comply with occupational safety regulations and applicable ANSI or CSA standards. Consult product labelling for specific OSHA, ANSI, and CSA standards met by the product.
• Installation And Operation:
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation and operation of the work positioning devices. Ensure all components are securely attached and used correctly.
• Maintenance, Service And Storage:
  • Regularly inspect and maintain the devices according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Store the equipment in a dry and clean environment when not in use.
• Inspection:
  • Before each use, inspect all equipment thoroughly following the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, have a qualified person conduct regular inspections to ensure safety and functionality.
• Labels:
  • Refer to product labels for important information regarding OSHA regulations, ANSI, and CSA standards met by the work positioning devices.

FAQs

• Q: Can pregnant women or minors use this equipment?
  • A: Pregnant women and minors should not use this equipment due to potential health risks associated with fall arrest forces.
• Q: How often should the equipment be inspected?
  • A: The equipment should be inspected before each use as per the manufacturer’s instructions, and regular inspections by a qualified person are recommended.

INTRODUCTION

• Please read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions for each component or part of the complete system. Manufacturer’s instructions must be followed for proper use, care, and maintenance of this product.
• These instructions must be retained and be kept available for the user’s reference at all times. Alterations or misuse of this product, or failure to follow instructions, may result in serious injury or death.
• NOTE: The user is advised to keep this user instructions document for the life of the product.
• This manual must be read and understood in its entirety and used as part of a fall protection training program as required by OSHA or any state regularity agency.
• These instructions are intended to meet the manufacturer’s instructions as required by ANSI Z359.3.2017 and OSHA 1926.
• The user must fully understand the proper equipment use and limitations.

MANUFACTURER:

• Ritz Fall Protection
• 1-800-451-3077 and RitzSafety.com.

WARNING:

• This product is part of a personal fall arrest, restraint, work positioning, suspension, or rescue system.
• A Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) is typically composed of an anchorage and a Full Body Harness (FBH), with a connecting device, i.e., a Shock Absorbing Lanyard (SAL), or a Self-Retracting Device (SRD), attached to the dorsal D- ring of the FBH.
• These instructions must be provided to the user of this equipment.
• The user must read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions for each component or part of the complete system.
• Manufacturer’s instructions must be followed for proper use, care, and maintenance of this product.
• These instructions must be retained and be kept available for the user’s reference at all times.
• Alterations or misuse of this product, or failure to follow instructions, may result in serious injury or death.

IMPORTANT:

• A Fall Protection Plan must be on file and available for review by all users.
• It is the responsibility of the user and the purchaser of this equipment to ensure that users of this equipment are properly trained in its use, maintenance, and storage.
• Training must be repeated at regular intervals. Training must not subject the trainee to fall hazards.
• When this equipment is in use the employer must have a rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it and communicate that plan to users, authorized persons, and rescuers.
• Do not alter or intentionally misuse this equipment. Consult Ritz Fall Protection when using this equipment in combination with components or subsystems other than those described in this manual.
• Some subsystem and component combinations may interfere with the operation of this equipment. Proceed with caution when using this equipment near moving machinery, electrical hazards, chemical hazards, and sharp edges.
• If you have questions on the use, care, or suitability of this equipment for your application, contact Ritz Fall Protection.
• Before using this equipment, record the product identification information from the ID label in the inspection and maintenance log in section 7 of this manual.

THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING MODEL:

• RTZ6756RS,
• RTZ30796,

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS, WARNINGS AND LIMITATIONS:
   • The Equipment is designed for use as a part of a personal fall protection system. Components must not be used for any other operation other than that which it has been designed and approved. Fall Arrest systems are designed to comply with OSHA.
   • The Fall Restraint System must be designed by a Qualified Person and must be installed and used under the supervision of a competent person.
   • All authorized persons/users must refer to the regulations governing occupational safety, as well as applicable ANSI or CSA standards.
   • Please refer to product labelling for information on specific OSHA regulations, and ANSI and CSA standards met by product.
   • Consult a doctor if there is any reason to doubt a user’s ability to withstand and safely absorb fall arrest forces. Age, fitness, and health conditions can seriously affect the worker if a fall occurs. Pregnant Women and minors should not use this equipment.
   • Proper precautions should always be taken to remove any obstructions, debris, material, or other recognized hazards from the work area that could cause injuries or interfere with the operation of the system.
   • All equipment must be inspected before each use according to the manufacturer’s instructions. All equipment should be inspected by a qualified person regularly.
   • To minimize the potential for accidental disengagement, a competent person must ensure system compatibility.
   • Equipment must not be altered/misused in any way. Repairs must be performed only by the Manufacturer, or persons or entities authorized in writing by the manufacturer.
   • Any product exhibiting deformities, unusual wear, or deterioration must be immediately discarded.
   • Any equipment subject to a fall must be removed from service. The authorized person/user shall have a rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it when using this equipment.
   • Never use fall protection equipment for purposes other than those for which it was designed. Fall protection equipment should never be used for towing or hoisting.
   • All synthetic material must be protected from slag, hot sparks, open flames, or other heat sources. The use of heat-resistant materials is recommended in these applications.
   • Never use natural materials (manila, cotton, etc.) as part of a fall protection system.
   • Do not expose this equipment to chemicals that may harm the materials used to construct it.
   • Be especially aware of caustic environments, or those that contain high levels of organic acids or bases. If you are uncertain about the safe operation of this equipment in any environment, contact Ritz Fall Protection for further instructions.
   • Do not use the equipment near sharp edges, abrasive surfaces and looping around small diameter structural members.
   • Do not use the equipment around moving machinery or electrical hazards.
   • Do not use the lanyards for material handling.
   • Anchorage requirements should be as per Z 359.2.
   • Ritz Fall Protection Lanyards should be used only with the combinations of components, sub-systems or both that may affect or interfere with the safe function of one another.
   • Be certain that connecting devices are compatible and that other elements of the PFAS are safe to use and compatible before use.

DESCRIPTIONS

The following options are available for positioning lanyards:

Double Leg Positioning Lanyards:

• Legs: Webbing/Chain/Rope
• The connection between legs and centre: Swivel or Rebar Hook Connectors :
• Leg: PN 146 and PN 147; PN 146,
• Center: PN 149 & PN 153(SW)

Single Leg Positioning Lanyards:

• Legs: Webbing/Chain/Rope Connectors :
• Leg: PN 145 & PN 146
• Warning: Do not use a non-shock Absorbing Lanyard for Fall Arrest

APPLICATIONS

• Purpose: The Positioning lanyards are intended to be used as part of a work positioning system that holds and supports the user at a work location. Applications include concrete rebar assembly and steel erection (see fig.2). OSHA standard 1926.500 defines this equipment as part of a positioning device system.

• Limitations: Consider the following application limitations before using this equipment:

• Capacity: This equipment is designed for use by persons with a combined weight (including tools, clothing, etc.) of no more than 310 lbs.

• Free Fall: This equipment must be rigged to limit the potential free fall to 4 feet, according to ANSI Z359.1, OSHA 1926.

• Fall Clearance: Ensure that adequate clearance exists in your fall path to prevent striking an object. The clearance required is dependent on the length and type of lanyard and anchorage location.

• Personal Fall Arrest System: See Figure 2. Ritz Fall Protection recommends the use of a personal fall arrest system with this equipment. The personal fall arrest system will protect the user if the work positioning system disengages from the anchorage point, or when detached from the work positioning system when moving from point to point. See OSHA 1926.

• Environmental Hazards: Use of this equipment in areas where environmental hazards are present may require additional precautions to reduce the possibility of injury to the user or damage to the equipment.
  Hazards may include, but are not limited to; high heat, severe cold, caustic chemicals, corrosive environments, high voltage power lines, explosive or toxic gases, moving machinery, or sharp edges.

• Training: This equipment is intended to be used by persons trained in its correct application and use.

• Applicable Standards: Refer to national standards, including the ANSI Z359 family of standards on fall protection, ANSI A10.32, and applicable local, state, and federal (OSHA) requirements governing occupational safety, for more information on work positioning systems.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

• Compatibility of Components and Sub-Systems: This equipment is designed for use with Ritz Fall Protection-approved components and subsystems. Substitutions or replacements made with non-approved components or subsystems may be incompatible and may jeopardize the safety and reliability of the complete system.
• Compatibility of Connectors: Connectors are considered to be 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. Contact Ritz Fall Protection if you have any questions about compatibility. Connectors (hooks, karabiners, 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. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Non-compatible connectors may unintentionally disengage. See Figure 3. Connectors must be compatible in size, shape, & strength. Self-locking snap hooks & karabiners are required by ANSI Z359.1 & OSHA.
• Making Connections: Only use self-locking snap hooks and karabiners with this equipment. Only use connectors that are suitable for each application. Ensure all connections are compatible in size, shape and strength. Do not use equipment that is not compatible. Ensure all connections are fully closed and locked. Ritz Fall Protection connectors (snap hooks and karabiners) are designed to be used only as specified in each product’s user’s instructions. See Figure 4 for inappropriate connections. Ritz Fall
• Protection snap hooks and karabiners should not be connected:
  • To a D-ring to which another connector is attached.
  • In a manner that would result in a load on the gate.
  • Note: Large gate-opening snap hooks should 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. Large gate snap hooks are designed for use on fixed structural elements such as rebar or cross members that are not shaped in a way that can capture the gate of the hook.
  • Figure 3- Unintentional Disengagement (Roll-out)
• If the connecting element to which a snap hook (shown) or carabiner attaches is undersized or irregular in shape, a situation could occur where the connecting element applies a force to the gate of the snap hook or carabiner.
• This force may cause the gate (of either a self-locking or a non-loking snap hook) to open, allowing the snap hook or carabiner to disengage from the connecting point.
• In a false engagement, where features that protrude from the snap hook or Karabiner catch on the anchor and without visual confirmation seem to be fully engaged to the anchor point.
• To each other.
• Directly to webbing or rope lanyard or tie-back (unless the manufacturer’s instructions for both the lanyard and connector specifically allow such a connection).
• To any object that is shaped or dimensioned such that the snap hook or carabiner will not close and lock, or that roll-out could occur.
• Do not use a connector on an anchorage object in the manner depicted in picture-G
• Anchorage Strength: Anchorages selected for work positioning systems shall have a strength capable of sustaining static loads applied in the directions permitted by the system of at least: A) 3,000 pounds (13.3kN) for non-certified anchorages or B) Two times the foreseeable force for certified anchorages. When more than one work positioning system is attached to an anchorage, the strengths previously outlined in (A) and (B) shall be multiplied by the number of systems attached to the anchorage.

USE

• Before each use: of this equipment; carefully inspect it according to the steps listed in section 5 of this manual.
• Plan: your work positioning system before using this equipment. Consider all factors that will affect your safety during the use of this equipment. Consider the following when planning your system:
• Hazard Evaluation: Evaluate the job site for all possible hazards. Ensure the intended path of the user is unobstructed. See section 1.2 for more information.
• Body Support: Ritz Fall Protection recommends the use of a full-body harness equipped with side D-rings with this equipment. A body belt may be used when it is a part of a full-body harness.
• Back-up Fall Protection: Ritz Fall Protection recommends the use of a personal fall arrest system with this equipment. See section 1.2 and Figure 2 for more information. Use the personal fall arrest system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Rescue: The authorized person must have a rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it when using this equipment where a suspension could occur (such as following a fall and self-rescue is not possible.
• Warning: Do not alter or intentionally misuse this equipment. Consult Ritz Fall Protection when using this equipment in combination with components or subsystems other than those described in this manual. Some subsystem and component combinations may interfere with the operation of this equipment. Use caution when using this equipment around moving machinery and electrical hazards. Do not loop the lanyard around small structural members.
• Warning: Consult your doctor if there is reason to doubt your fitness to safely absorb the shock from a fall arrest. Age and fitness seriously affect a worker’s ability to withstand falls. Pregnant women or minors must not use Ritz Fall Protection rebar lanyards.
• Making Connections: When using a hook to connect to an anchorage, ensure roll-out cannot occur. Roll-out occurs when interference between the hook and mating connector causes the hook gate to unintentionally open and release. Self-locking snap hooks and karabiners should be used to reduce the possibility of roll-out. Make sure all connectors close and lock and they do so automatically without manual assistance. Do not use hooks or connectors that will not completely close over the attachment object. Do not connect snap hooks or karabiners.

Connecting the Rebar Lanyard to your body support and Anchorage:

• a. Connecting to your body support: See Figure 5.
  • Double Leg Rebar Lanyards:
  • Connect one leg of the rebar lanyard to each side D-ring of your body support (full body harness)
  • Do not allow the legs of the Lanyard to pass under arms, between legs, or around the neck.
  • Single Leg Rebar Lanyards with D-ring:
  • Lace your waist belt through the D-ring on the rebar lanyard. With the D-ring installed, buckle and secure your waist belt.
  • Single Leg Rebar Lanyards with Snap Hook: Connect the snap hook to the front D-ring on your cross-over style full-body harness. If using this rebar lanyard with a waist belt, slide the waist belt D-ring to your front and connect the snap hook.
• b. Connecting to the Anchorage: Connect the snap hook or Karabiner on the rebar lanyard to the intersection of the horizontal and vertical rebar as shown in Figure 6.
• c. Connecting the Personal Fall Arrest System: Connect the personal fall arrest system to the dorsal back D-ring on your full body harness. See Figure 2. See the personal fall arrest system manufacturer’s instructions for more information.

TRAINING:

• It is the responsibility of the user to ensure they are familiar with these instructions and are trained in the correct care and use of this equipment.
• Users must also be aware of the operating characteristics, application limits, and the consequences of improper use of this equipment.

Warning: Training must be conducted without exposing the trainee to a fall hazard. Training should be repeated periodically.

INSPECTION Frequency:

• Before Each Use: inspect according to the steps listed in section 5.2. Remove equipment from field service if it has been subjected to damage or has been subjected to a fall arrest force.
• Annually: This equipment must be inspected according to the steps listed in section 5.2 by a competent person, other than the user, at least annually. Record the results of each inspection in the inspection and maintenance log in section 9.0.
• Warning: If this equipment has been subjected to fall arrest forces, remove it from service and destroy it.
• Important: Extreme working conditions (harsh environments, prolonged use, etc.) may require increasing the frequency of inspections.

Inspection Steps:

• Step 1. Inspect rebar lanyard hardware (snap hooks, karabiners, quick-links, etc.) for damage, distortion, sharp edges, worn parts, or corrosion. The snap hooks or karabiners must work properly. Hook gates must move freely and lock upon closing.
• Step 2. Inspect the lanyard material as applicable:
• Webbing and Stitching: Webbing must be free of frayed, cut, or broken fibres. Webbing must be free of knots, tears, abrasions, mould, or discolouration. Webbing must be free of chemical or heat damage, indicated by brown, discoloured, or brittle areas. Webbing must be free of ultraviolet damage, indicated by discolouration and splinters along the webbing surface. The stitching must be free of pulled or cut stitches. All of the above factors are known to reduce webbing strength.
• Chain: Inspect the chain for damage, distortion, sharp edges, worn links, or corrosion.
• Step 3. Labels must be present and fully legible. See section 7.0.
• Step 4. Inspect each system component and subsystem according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Step 5. Record the inspection date and results in the inspection and maintenance log in section 9.0.

If the inspection reveals an unsafe or defective condition, remove the rebar lanyard from service and destroy it, or contact an authorized service centre for repair.

Important: Only Ritz Fall Protection or an authorized service centre may make repairs to this equipment.

MAINTENANCE, SERVICING, STORAGE

• Clean the rebar lanyard with water and mild detergent. Wipe off hardware with a clean, dry cloth and hang to air dry. Do not force dry with heat.
• An excessive build-up of dirt, paint, etc., may prevent the rebar lanyard from working properly, and in severe cases, weaken the webbing.
• If you have questions about the condition of your rebar lanyard, contact Ritz Fall Protection.
• Additional maintenance and servicing procedures must be completed by Ritz Fall Protection or parties authorized in writing. Do not disassemble this equipment. See section 5.1 for servicing frequency.
• Store the rebar lanyard in a cool, dry, clean environment, out of direct sunlight. Avoid areas where chemical vapours are present. Thoroughly inspect this equipment after extended storage.

LABELS:

SPECIFICATIONS

• Materials:
  • Snap Hooks, Karabiners, D-rings, Swivel: Steel alloy, zinc plated.
  • Webbing: Polyester.
  • Chain: Steel alloy, 5/0 twist link, zinc plated.
  • Rope: Polyamide
• Strength and Capacity:
  • Snap Hooks, Karabiners, D-rings, O-ring: 5,000 lbs. tensile strength, 310 lbs. capacity.
  • Webbing: 9,800 lbs. tensile strength, 310 lbs. capacity. Review the product labels to determine if your product meets ANSI Z359.3, ANSI A10.32 and OSHA requirements. See section 7 Labels.

TERMINOLOGY:

• Authorized Person: A person assigned by the employer to perform duties at a location where the person will be exposed to a fall hazard (otherwise referred to as “user” for these instructions).
• Rescuer: Person or persons other than the rescue subject acting to perform an assisted rescue by operation of a rescue system.
• Certified Anchorage: An anchorage for fall arrest, positioning, restraint, or rescue systems that a qualified person certifies to be capable of supporting the potential fall forces that could be encountered during a fall or that meet the criteria for a certified anchorage prescribed in this standard.
• Qualified Person: A person with a recognized degree or professional certificate and with extensive knowledge, training, and experience in the fall protection and rescue field who is capable of designing, analyzing, evaluating and specifying fall protection and rescue systems to the extent required by this standard.
• Competent Person: One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

HOW TO DISPOSE OF A WORK POSITIONING LANYARD:

• When the lanyard becomes unfit or in case of any wear and tear, dispose of the same immediately.

Follow the given steps for disposal:

• Make the three plastic crates namely- Textile, Metal & Plastic for placing the respective components of the lanyard.
• Spread the lanyard on a table / flat surface.
• Inspect the wear & tear present on the lanyard.
• If any wear and tear is observed, dispose of the lanyard using a sharp scissor; first cut the Textile and dismantle the lanyard.
• Put the Textile, Plastic & Metal components in their respective plastic crates.

WARRANTY: All Ritz Fall Protection products bear 1- a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects, applicable to unused Ritz Fall Protection products, from the date of purchase. However, Ritz Fall Protection shall not be liable for any accident or damage while the product is in use.
LIFESPAN: The estimated product Lifespan of this product is 10- years from the date of manufacturing. The following factors can reduce the Lifespan of the product: intense use, contact with chemical substances, especially aggressive environment, extreme temperature exposure, UV exposure, abrasion, cuts, violent impacts, bad use, or maintenance.
DISCLAIMER:

• This information on the product is based upon technical data that Ritz Fall Protection obtained under laboratory conditions and believes to be reliable.
• Ritz Fall Protection does not guarantee results and takes no liability or obligation in connection with this information.
• As conditions of end-use are beyond our control, it is the user’s responsibility to determine the hazard levels and the use of proper personal protective equipment.
• Persons having technical expertise should undertake evaluation under their specific end-use conditions, at their discretion and risk.
• Please ensure that this information is only to check that the product selected is suitable for the intended use. Any product that is damaged, torn, worn, or punctured should be immediately discontinued from usage.

• 800-451-3077
• RitzSafety.com.

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