2.4
CONNECTOR COMPATIBILITY: 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 3M if you have any questions about compatibility.
Connectors (hooks, carabiners, and D-rings) must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbf (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 5). Connectors must be compatible in size, shape,
and strength. If the connecting element to which a snap hook 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 (A). This force
may cause the gate to open (B), allowing the snap hook or carabiner to disengage from the connecting point (C).
2.5
MAKING CONNECTIONS: Snap hooks and carabiners used with this equipment must be self-locking. 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.
3M connectors (snap hooks and carabiners) are designed to be used only as specified in each product's user's instructions.
See Figure 6 for examples of inappropriate connections. Do not connect snap hooks and carabiners:
A.
To a D-ring to which another connector is attached.
B.
In a manner that would result in a load on the gate. Large throat 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, unless the
snap hook complies is equipped with a 3,600 lbf (16 kN) gate. Check the marking on your snap hook to verify that it
is appropriate for your application.
C.
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.
D.
To each other.
E.
Directly to webbing or rope lanyard or tie-back (unless the manufacturer's instructions for both the lanyard and
connector specifically allows such a connection).
F.
To any object which is shaped or dimensioned such that the snap hook or carabiner will not close and lock, or that
roll-out could occur.
G.
In a manner that does not allow the connector to align properly while under load.
2.6
CONNECTING SUBSYSTEMS: Connecting subsystems used with the harness must be suitable for your system application
(see Section 4.2). See the instruction manual of your connecting subsystem for more information. Some harness models
have web loop connection points. Do not use snap hooks to connect to web loops. Use a self-locking carabiner to connect
to a web loop. Ensure the carabiner cannot cross-gate load (load against the gate rather than along the major axis of the
carabiner). Some lanyards are designed to choke onto a web loop to provide a compatible connection. Lanyards may be
sewn directly to the web loop forming a permanent connection. Do not make multiple connections onto one web loop, unless
choking two lanyards onto a properly sized web loop. To choke the lanyard on a web loop, refer to Figure 7: A) Insert the
lanyard web loop through the web loop or D-Ring on the harness. B) Insert the appropriate end of the lanyard through the
lanyard web loop. C) Pull the lanyard through the connecting web loop to secure.
2.7
LANYARD PARKING ATTACHMENT: Figure 8 illustrates Lanyard Parking. The Lanyard Parking Attachment is for
attaching the free end of a Lanyard or harness mounted Self-Retracting Device when not connected to an Anchorage
Connection Point for purposes of fall protection. Lanyard Parking Attachments must never be used as a Fall Protection
Attachment Element on the Harness for connecting a Lanyard or Self-Retracting Device (A).
When not connected to an Anchorage Connection Point, an unconnected Lanyard Leg must be properly parked on the
harness (B) or secured in the user's hand as in 100% Tie-Off applications (C). Free hanging Lanyard Legs (D) can trip the
user or catch on surrounding objects resulting in a fall.
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