How Much Weight Can a Mobile Fall Arrester Handle?

How much weight can a mobile fall arrester handle? This is a question that we get asked a lot, and the answer may surprise you. Mobile fall arresters are designed to handle a lot of weight, and they are tested to ensure that they can do so.

What is a mobile fall arrester?

A mobile fall arrester is a device that is intended to arrest the fall of a user. The device consists of a body harness with an attached lanyard or webbing, which is connected to an anchor point. When properly used, the mobile fall arrester will distribute the forces of a fall evenly across the user’s body, so that no single body part experiences an excessive force. The distribution of forces will also help to prevent the user from being pulled too far up or down, which could cause serious injury.

How much weight can a mobile fall arrester handle?

The fall arrestor is designed to support a maximum of 310 lbs. (140 kg). Of course, this safety factor must be considered when working with more than one person on the same system.

The following formula can be used to estimate the maximum number of people that can safely work on a given fall arrest system: (Number of people) x (weight of the heaviest person) / (safety factor) = maximum number of people. For example, if two people are working on a system with a safety factor of 2, the maximum weight that can be supported by the system is (2 people) x (310 lbs. / 2) = 155 lbs.

What are the benefits of using a mobile fall arrester?

Mobile fall arresters are an important part of a fall protection system. They can be used as a primary means of arrest or as a backup to another system, such as a static line.

There are many benefits to using a mobile fall arrester. One of the most important is that they can help to prevent free falls, which can result in serious injuries or death. They can also be used to arrest a fall from a height that would not be possible with a static system. Another benefit of mobile fall arresters is that they are much easier to set up and take down than static systems. This makes them ideal for use in construction or other temporary work environments. Finally, mobile fall arresters are much more versatile than static systems. They can be used in a variety of different ways, depending on the needs of the user.

How to use a mobile fall arrester?

A mobile fall arrester is a specialized device that is used to prevent falls from height. The device contains a shock-absorbing lanyard that is attached to the user and a strong anchor point that is fixed to the structure.

When used correctly, mobile fall arresters can effectively prevent serious injuries or fatalities from falls. However, it is important to note that these devices are not 100% foolproof, and should only be used as part of a comprehensive fall protection system.

In order to use a mobile fall arrester correctly, you must first ensure that the anchoring point is secure and properly rated for the number of users. The lanyard must then be attached to the user in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Once complete, the user should move away from the edge of the platform or structure until the lanyard is partially extended.

The user can then move freely within the safe working area, knowing that if they slip or trip, the lanyard will arrest their fall and prevent them from falling to the ground. It is important to regularly check mobile fall arresters for signs of wear or damage, as this could render them ineffective in an emergency situation.

What are the different types of mobile fall arresters?

There are three main types of mobile fall arresters:

  • Retractable type
  • Fall Limiter type
  • Gravity type

The retractable type is the most popular, as it offers the greatest degree of protection. It is also the most expensive. The fall limiter type is cheaper, but it does not offer as much protection. The gravity type is the least expensive, but it is also the least effective.

How to choose the right mobile fall arrester?

When choosing a mobile fall arrester, you must consider the maximum arrest force and the user’s weight. The maximum arrest force is the amount of weight that can be safely stopped by the fall arrester. Most fall arresters have a maximum arrest force of between 6kN and 12kN. The user’s weight must also be considered when choosing a mobile fall arrester. If the user weighs more than 140kg, they will need to use a fall arrester with an extra-strong strap or chain.

How to maintain a mobile fall arrester?

It is always recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s user guide for your fall arrester. In order to maintain its CE-marked status, it is important that your mobile fall arrester is regularly inspected and serviced in accordance with the requirements of the Machinery Directive. It is also important to ensure that any repairs are carried out by a competent person.

FAQs

Q: What is a mobile fall arrester?

A: A mobile fall arrester is a device that is designed to arrest the free fall of a person who has slipped or fallen from an elevated work position. It is connected to the worker by a lanyard, and typically has a catch or deceleration device that engages when the lanyard is pulled tight, arresting the fall and bringing the worker to a stop.

Q: How much weight can a mobile fall arrester handle?

A: Most mobile fall arresters are designed for use by workers who weigh no more than 310 pounds.

Q: What are some of the other key features of mobile fall arresters?

A: In addition to being able to handle up to 310 pounds, most mobile fall arresters are also equipped with an energy-absorbing lanyard that helps to reduce the forces exerted on the body during a fall, as well as a built-in positioning device that helps keep the worker in an upright position while working.

In closing

Mobile fall arresters can handle persons and gear of sizeable weight, however, they have limits. Thus, it is recommended to not overload your fall arrester while using it or it could fail, leading to a serious accident.

NEXT UP: How Do Different Fall Arrest Systems Compare?

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James Sylvester
About James Sylvester

James S. Sylvester is an experienced OSHA Safety Supervisor with years of experience in the construction and oil & gas industries. He focuses on workplace safety, occupational health and safety systems. Learn more about James' here or connect with him on Twitter