Death Grip Fall
A death grip fall occurs when the user of the rope grab is in an off-balance situation or
experiencing a fall. Some industry observers believe that the natural tendency for the
panicked user is to reach for the rope grab to steady the fall. If that is the case, the user
will "open" the rope grab allowing free movement on the lifeline. The fall will, therefore,
not be arrested until the "death grip" on the rope grab is released. This could result in
long falls or contact with obstructions causing injury or death.
Panic Stop Feature
The "Panic Stop" feature of the FP540 Series Rope Grabs offers additional safety for
the user. Should the user activate the cam lever in a fall, called a death grip, ordinary
rope grabs are not able to engage the lifeline and arrest a fall. The spring action in the
540 Series Rope Grab allows the cam to contact the lifeline and thus arrest the fall.
1.1.2 GENERAL WARNINGS
1.
Do not connect the rope grab vertical lifeline to an anchor that is not
capable of supporting at least 5,000 lbs (22 kN) per person.
2.
Do not connect more than one person to the rope grab. Maximum
allowable weight with tools and clothing is 300 lbs. (136 kgs)
3.
Do not manipulate the rope grab should a fall occur. Await rescue.
4.
Do not use this device for any controlled descent applications such as
self-rescue or emergency escape. There is no speed control in this device
and users will be suspended in the event of a fall.
5.
Do not attempt to service or alter the rope grab for any reason. Worn,
corroded or damaged units must immediately be removed from service and
discarded.
6.
Do not reuse any rope grab that has arrested a fall or shows signs of wear.
Remove from service immediately.
7.
Do not work above the anchorage for any reason. When working laterally or
above the anchorage, a swing fall may occur causing impact with an
obstruction.
8.
Do not use this rope grab unless completely closed around the lifeline rope
and the arrow is pointed in the upward direction. The safety latch must be
completely engaged and in the upright position. All North Rope Grabs are
clearly marked with an
9.
Do not use the rope grab if it fails to lock onto the lifeline rope immediately
during pre-use test. Remove from service immediately.
10.
Do not use rope grab on lifeline rope unless approved by North. Use only
5/8" (16mm) 3-strand or kernmantle synthetic rope. Polypropylene rope is
not a suitable rope for fall protection requirements.
11.
Always be aware when working near electrical power lines and sources.
Electrical current could travel through the rope grab and system
components and cause injury or death.
12.
Never remove the rope grab from the lifeline unless you are protected from
a fall hazard in some other approved manner.
13.
Never use the 540 Series Rope Grabs in sternal applications. They are
designed for dorsal D-Ring application only.
14.
Do not expose to chemical hazards. Chemicals can degrade the lifeline and
impede the performance of the rope grab should a fall occur.
15.
Do not use the rope grab when the user is positioned on an unstable
surface, fine-grain material or particulate.
WARNINGS
arrow indicating the upright installation position.
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