DEWALT DXFP532052 (01) PDF DOCUMENT

The instruction manual for the DEWALT DXFP532052 uses the following safety alert symbols and words to alert you to hazardous situations and your risk of personal injury or property damage:

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

(Used without word): Indicates a safety related message.

NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before using the DEWALT DXFP532052. Keep these instructions for future reference.

WARNING: Read and follow the manufacturer’s instruction for each component of the system.

WARNING: Do not remove product labels which include important warnings and information for all authorized users.

WARNING: Always have a Rescue Plan ready and at hand when using this equipment.

WARNING: DO NOT ALTER THE EQUIPMENT IN ANY WAY.

WARNING: It is important to inspect the equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions before each use. Inspection of equipment should be done at least annually by a Competent person and the results recorded in the inspection log.

WARNING: Every individual requires formal training in the use of fall protection equipment and system.

WARNING: In order to ensure that the user is familiar with the instructions provided in this manual, it becomes the responsibility of the user to undergo proper training on the proper inspection, use and maintenance of this equipment. It is also the employer’s responsibility to ensure that all users are trained in proper use, inspection and maintenance of Fall Protection Equipment.

DANGER: Do not skip this instruction manual. Alterations or misuse of this product, or failure to follow instructions may result in serious injury or death.

It is crucial that the Authorized person/user of this fall protection equipment reads and understands these instructions. In addition, it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that all users are trained in the proper use, inspection, and maintenance of fall protection equipment.

Proper use of fall arrest systems can save lives and reduce the potential of serious injuries from a fall.

The user must be aware that forces experienced during the arrest of a fall and prolonged suspension may cause injury.

Consult a physician if there is any question about the user’s ability to use this product.

Pregnant women and minors must not use this product.

All warnings and instructions shall be provided to Authorized persons/users.

All Authorized persons/users must refer to the regulations governing occupational safety, as well as applicable ANSI standards.

Please refer to product labels for information on specific OSHA regulations, and ANSI standards met by the product.

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 Competent person on at least an annual basis.

To minimize the potential for accidental disengagement, a Competent person must ensure system compatibility.

Equipment must not be altered 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 removed from service for inspection by a Qualified person.

Any equipment subject to a fall must be removed from service.

Keep children and bystanders away while working. Distractions can cause hazardous conditions.

The authorized person/user shall have a rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it when using this equipment.

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.

Environmental hazards should be considered when selecting fall protection equipment. Equipment must not be exposed to chemicals which may produce a harmful effect.

Polyester should be used in certain chemical or acidic environments. Use in highly corrosive or caustic environments dictates a more frequent inspection and servicing program to ensure the integrity of the device is maintained.

Do not allow equipment to come in contact with anything that will damage it including, but not limited to, sharp, abrasive, rough or high-temperature surfaces, welding, heat sources, electrical hazards, or moving machinery.

Always check for obstructions below the work area to make sure potential fall path is clear.

Allow adequate fall clearance below the work surface.

Never remove product labels, which include important warnings and information for the authorized person/user.

Component Compatibility:

Component compatibility with DEWALT manufactured fall protection equipment is ensured by strictly following the instructions for each type of equipment used. However, if the user utilizes combinations of components or sub systems that are manufactured by others, only a “qualified” or “competent” person (as defined in OSHA) can ensure the compatibility. If substitutions or replacements are made with non-approved components or sub systems, then this may severely affect the compatibility of the equipment, making the complete system unsafe for use.

Compatibility of Connectors:

To ensure the compatibility of the connectors with their connecting element, it is important to safeguard that the sizes and shapes of the connectors and the connecting elements do not allow their gate mechanisms to open inadvertently, notwithstanding their orientation with each other. All hooks, carabiners, D-rings and other such connectors must be capable of supporting a min. force of 5000 lbs. (23 kN). All connectors must be compatible with all system components like anchorages, etc. Never use equipment which is not compatible as this may cause the connectors to disengage unintentionally. All connectors must be compatible in shape and size. As per ANSI Z359.12 and OSHA, only self-locking snap hooks and carabiners may be used.

WARNING: 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. This force may cause the gate (of either a self-locking or a non-locking snap hook) to open, allowing the snap hook or carabiner to disengage from the connecting point. This is known as roll out.

WARNING: Large throat opening snap hooks such as scaffold or rebar hooks should not be connected to standard size D-rings or similar objects. This is because if the hook or D-ring twists or rotates, it may result in a load on the gate of the connector. Large throat snap hooks are specifically designed for use on fixed structure elements like rebar or cross members.

Never Use Inappropriate Connections:

Two or more connectors should never be attached to a single D-ring.

Never attach a connector that could result in a load on its gate.

Connectors should not be connected in a false engagement. It should be visually confirmed that the connector is fully engaged to the anchor point.

Connectors should not be connected to each other.

Connectors should not be connected directly to the webbing or to the rope lanyard or tie back, unless specifically allowed by the manufacturer.

Connectors should not be connected to any object which does not allow the connector gate to close or lock. Anchor shapes that allow roll out to occur should never be used for connection.

Important Restrictions While Making Connections:

A snap hook should not be connected into a loop or thimble of a wire rope, or attached to it in any way that may slack the wire rope.

Do not make connections where the connector locking mechanism can come into contact with a structural member, or other such equipment, as it may potentially unlock the connector and release the connection.

To connect to a single or a pair of soft loops on a harness, a carabiner that can fully close and lock should only be used. Snap hooks are not allowed for such connections, unless specifically allowed by manufacturer.

A carabiner may be connected to a loop or ring connector that is already occupied by a choker style connector. Snap hooks are not allowed for such connections.

A rescue plan should be well documented and in place before performing work at height.

The rescue operation must be performed by trained and competent personnel only.

The rescue team expert should supervise the rescue operation performed.

It is also advised to work in pairs while working on the site.

Environmental hazards may include the following, but are not limited to:

Chemicals

Extreme Temperatures

Corrosive Environments

Gases

High Voltage Power Lines

Sharp Edges

Moving Machinery and Vehicles

The application type determines the anchorage strength requirement. As per ANSI Z359.1, the necessary anchorage strength for the following applications is listed below:

Fall Arrest: As per OSHA 1926.500 and 1910.66 anchorages that are used for attachment of Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS) shall be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms. They should be capable of withstanding a minimum load of 5000 lbs. (23 kN) per user attached, or should be designed, installed and used as part of a complete PFAS which maintains a safety factor of at least two. Rating of the anchorage should always be done under the supervision of a qualified person.

Work Positioning: The structure to which the work positioning system (WPS) is attached must be able to sustain a static load of min. 3000 lbs. (13.3 kN), applied in the directions permitted by the work positioning system. Or, it should be able to sustain two times the potential impact load, whichever is greater. If more than one WPS is attached to an anchorage, then the strength mentioned above must be multiplied by the number of WPS attached to the anchorage.

Restraint: The strength requirement of anchorages which are selected for restraint and travel restraint systems is a min. of 1000 lbs. (4.5 kN) static load applied in the directions permitted by the system. If more than one restraint system is attached to an anchorage, then the 1000 lbs. shall be multiplied by the number of systems attached to the anchorage to determine the min. strength requirement.

Rescue: The minimum strength of the anchorage selected for rescue should be such that it is capable of sustaining a static load of min. 3000 lbs. (13.3 kN) applied in the direction permitted by the system. If more than one rescue system is attached, then multiply 3000 lbs. (13.3 kN) by the number of the systems attached to the anchorage.

Swing Falls: Swing fall occurs when the position of the anchorage point is not directly above the point where a fall occurs. In such a case, a fall will result in a pendulum swing of the fall victim and may cause them to strike nearby objects with force, which may cause serious injury or even death. Swing falls may be minimized by ensuring the anchorage is directly overhead and working as close to the anchorage point as possible.

Capacity: The capacity of the DEWALT DXFP532052 full body harness is up to 310 lbs. (140 kg). The combined weight (clothes, tools, shoes etc.) of a person using this harness should not be more than 310 lbs. It is important to ensure that all the components in the system are rated to a capacity which is appropriate to the application.

Free Fall: As per ANSI Z359.11, the personal fall arrest systems used with this equipment must be rigged so that the free fall does not exceed 6 ft. (1.8 m). Restraint systems must be rigged so that no vertical free fall is possible. Work positioning systems are required to be rigged in a way that the free fall does not exceed 2 ft. (0.6 m).

Total Fall Clearance below a worker is calculated from the Anchorage Connection. Care must be taken to ensure that the total fall distance is clear of obstructions, such as equipment, to avoid contact with a lower level.

The formula is: (A) Free Fall Distance (lanyard length) + (B) Energy Absorber Deceleration Distance + (C) Worker height (includes height to worker D-ring and harness stretch) + (D) Safety Factor.

Example for 6 Feet Free Fall:

(A) Free Fall Distance + (B) Energy Absorber Deceleration Distance + (C) Worker height + (D) Safety Factor = 18.5 ft. (5.6 m)

Example for 12 Feet Free Fall:

(A) Free Fall Distance + (B) Energy Absorber Deceleration Distance + (C) Worker height + (D) Safety Factor = 19.5 ft. (5.9 m)

The DEWALT DXFP532052 full body harness is to be used as a component in personal fall arrest, restraint, work positioning and rescue systems. Applications include:

Personal Fall Arrest: The DEWALT DXFP532052 along with a connecting sub system (e.g. energy absorbing lanyard) typically constitutes a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). The maximum arresting force should not be more than 1800 lbs. (8 kN). Only the dorsal D-ring, or the attachment element on the back of the harness, should be connected to the fall arrest subsystem for fall arrest.

Working Positioning: The harness is used to support the user at a work position. It is used with a work positioning lanyard to constitute a work positioning system. A personal fall arrest system is always used as a backup. Connect the work positioning sub system to the belt mounted work positioning attachment anchorage elements (lateral or hip D-rings). These D-rings should never be used as connection points for fall arrest.

Restraint: The harness constitutes a component of a restraint system, which prevents the user from reaching a fall hazard (e.g., edge of a platform or roof). It is used with a restraint lanyard or restraint line.

Controlled Descent: The harness is connected to a descender or an evacuation system. Such harnesses are equipped with a single sternal level D-ring, one or two frontal D-rings, or a pair of connectors originating below the waist.

Rescue: The harness forms a part of the rescue system. Harnesses with D-rings on the shoulders may be used for entry and egress into confined spaces.

Ladder Climbing: A climbing system prevents the user from falling when climbing a ladder or other climbing structure. The harness, equipped with a frontal D-ring on the sternal location, is used as a component of the climbing system.

The DEWALT DXFP532052 harness should be inspected prior to each use as per the following guidelines. It is also mandatory that a Competent Person other than the user must perform a formal inspection at least once annually.

STEP 1: Locate the impact indicators. This is a section of webbing folded back on itself with a specific stitch pattern. If the stitch has opened, releasing the warning sign, the harness has been subjected to a fall and must be immediately removed from service.

STEP 2: Check the stitches on the harness. They should be intact, with no cuts, severe abrasion or visual damage.

STEP 3: Check the webbing by holding it with your hands 6 to 8 inches apart and bending it in an inverted U. This helps detect any damaged fibers or cuts. Repeat this process for the entire length of the webbing, checking both sides of each strap. Look for frayed edges, broken fibers, cuts, burns, pulled stitches, and chemical damage.

STEP 4: Check the D-rings for sharp edges, distortion, cracks, breaks, and rough edges. Ensure the D-ring pivots freely and look for any broken stitching of the D-ring attachments.

STEP 5: Inspect the pads for any cracks, excessive wear, and other signs of damage.

STEP 6: Check the buckle attachments for abrasion, rust, or cracks. Check all connections to the webbing for unusual wear, frayed or cut fibers, or broken stitching.

STEP 7: Check the tongue buckles and grommets. The buckle tongues should not be distorted, should overlap the buckle frames, and move freely. The roller should turn freely on the frame. Look for distortion or sharp edges. Grommets should not be loose, distorted, or broken. There should not be any additional punched holes in the webbing.

STEP 8: Friction buckles should be inspected for distortion. The center and outer bars of the buckle should be straight. Inspect the corners and attachment points at the center bar.

STEP 9: If your harness has a quick connect buckle at the chest, it should be inspected for distortion, cracks, and breaks. The buckles should engage properly and function smoothly.

STEP 1: Lift up and hold the harness by the back D-Ring. Check to ensure that the straps are not twisted.

STEP 2: Grab the shoulder straps and put the harness on over one arm, like putting on a jacket. Ensure the dorsal D-ring is located on your back and that all straps hang freely. Ensure both shoulder straps are sitting flat on top of your shoulders.

STEP 3: Reach between your legs and grasp one of the leg straps. Pull it up between your legs and make the connection in front of your harness. For tongue buckle connections, slide the strap through the buckle to the grommet that provides a secure, snug fit. Tuck the excess end of the strap under the strap keeper. The connection should be snug, allowing enough space to slide at least three fingers underneath.

STEP 4: If your harness has a waist belt, adjust and buckle the belt to a comfortable, firm fit.

STEP 5: Buckle and adjust the chest strap to a proper fit. The chest strap should sit approximately 6 inches (15 cm) below the top of your shoulders. Once positioned properly and snug, tuck any excess webbing into the strap keeper.

STEP 6: Adjust the shoulder straps by pulling on the torso adjustment buckles located on each side of the harness. Adjust the shoulder straps equally. This will also allow you to center the chest strap.

STEP 7: Final adjustments should be checked to ensure proper fit as an incorrectly fit harness can cause serious injury in the event of a fall. Double-check all connections to make sure they are secure.

It is of extreme importance that the DEWALT DXFP532052 harness fits snugly and is properly adjusted. Make the following checks after donning:

Check the chest strap: It should be in the middle of your chest in front of the sternum, 6 inches below the shoulders. If positioned too high, it may cause strangulation in a fall. If positioned too low or not connected, the wearer could risk slipping out of the harness.

Check the leg strap: They should be properly adjusted for complete safety. They should be snug but not so tight that they obstruct normal blood circulation in the legs.

Check the sub pelvic strap: This strap provides support to the body in the event of a fall and also gives support when used for positioning. It comfortably provides a ‘seat’ for the buttocks. In the event of a fall, the wearer should lift up their legs to transfer weight to the sub pelvic strap.

Lanyard Keeper: When not in use, unused lanyard legs that are still attached to a full body harness D-ring should not be attached to a work positioning element or any other structural element on the harness unless deemed acceptable by a competent person. DEWALT harnesses come with Lanyard Keepers located at the sternal area, specially meant for parking the unused leg of the lanyard. These also reduce tripping and entanglement hazards.

Web Keepers: DEWALT harnesses are provided with web keepers that serve to control the loose ends of the straps. These loose ends, if left uncontrolled, can get caught in machinery or cause accidental disengagement of an adjuster. The user must ensure that there are no loose ends of the straps, and that these are kept in place by the web keepers.

Dorsal Attachment: Always use the dorsal attachment element as the primary fall arrest attachment, unless the application allows the use of an alternate attachment. You may also use the dorsal attachment for travel restraint or rescue.

Sternal Attachment: You may use the sternal attachment as an alternative fall arrest attachment in applications where the dorsal attachment is found to be inappropriate by a competent person, and where there is no chance to fall other than feet first. It can be used for ladder climbing, rope access, and work positioning.

Frontal Attachment: Where there is no chance to fall in a direction other than feet first, the frontal attachment may be used as a connection for ladder climbing, for guided type fall arresters and also for work positioning.

Shoulder Attachment: Always use the shoulder attachment elements as a pair. They are an acceptable attachment for rescue and entry/retrieval. Never use shoulder attachment elements for fall arrest. It is recommended to use them in conjunction with a yoke/spreader element.

Hip Attachment: The hip attachment elements shall be used solely for work positioning and shall always be used as a pair. They are NOT meant for fall arrest. Users are cautioned not to store the unused end of a fall arrest lanyard on the hip attachment elements to avoid any tripping hazards.

Maintenance, Service, and Storage:

A full body harness can be cleaned with water and a mild soap solution. If a harness is excessively dirty or has a build-up of material like paint, this may hamper its function and may require removal from service. Never use bleach to clean the harness. Always air dry the harness; do not force dry with heat. The hardware should be wiped off with a clean dry cloth.

Additional maintenance and servicing procedures must be completed by an authorized service center only.

Store full body harnesses in a cool, dry, and clean environment away from direct sunlight. Avoid areas where there may be the presence of chemical vapors. Thoroughly inspect the harness after extended storage.

Lifespan:

The lifespan of any component of a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) is dependent upon its level of use, the environment in which it is used and how it is maintained. Any part of the PFAS that passes daily inspection by an Authorized person or periodic (annual or semiannual) inspection by a Competent person, can stay in use. Once it fails visual inspection it must be removed from service.