Ansi+asse+z359 15-2014

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
ANSI/ASSE Z359.15-2014
Safety Requirements for Single Anchor Lifelines and
Fall Arresters for Personal Fall Arrest Systems
Part of the Fall Protection Code
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The information and materials contained in this publication have been developed from sources believed to be
reliable. However, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) as secretariat of the ANSI accredited
Z359 Committee or individual committee members accept no legal responsibility for the correctness or com-
pleteness of this material or its application to specific factual situations. By publication of this standard, ASSE
or the Z359 Committee does not ensure that adherence to these recommendations will protect the safety or
health of any persons, or preserve property.
ANSI®
ANSI/ASSE Z359.15 – 2014
American National Standard

Secretariat
American Society of Safety Engineers

1800 East Oakton Street
Des Plaines, Illinois 60018-2187
Approved August 25, 2014
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
American Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the require-
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clude anyone, whether he/she has approved the standards or not, from manufacturing,
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over, no person shall have the right or authority to issue an interpretation of an American
National Standard in the name of the American National Standards Institute. Requests for
interpretation should be addressed to the secretariat or sponsor whose name appears on
the title page of this standard.
Caution Notice: This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any
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Published February 2015 by:

1800 East Oakton Street
Des Plaines, Illinois 60018-2187
(847) 699-2929 • www.asse.org
Copyright ©2015 by American Society of Safety Engineers

All Rights Reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced

in any form, in an electronic retrieval system or
otherwise, without the prior written permission
of the publisher.
Printed in the United States of America
Foreword (This Foreword is not a part of American National Standard Z359.15-2014.)
This standard, national in scope, was developed by an Accredited Standards Committee functioning under
the procedures of the American National Standards Institute, with the American Society of Safety Engineers
(ASSE) as secretariat.
It is intended that every employer whose operations fall within the scope and purpose of the standard will
adopt the guidelines and requirements detailed in this standard.
The need for this standards activity grew out of the continuing development of a series of fall protection-relat-
ed standards. The focus is to tie the elements of those standards together and provide the tools with which
employers may develop the programs that incorporate those elements. This standard also brings together
the administrative requirements of those fall protection standards. It should be noted, as in all Z359-series
standards, that this standard applies to occupational activities. It does not apply to sports activities such as
mountaineering.
Neither the standards committee, nor the secretariat, states that this standard is perfect or in its ultimate
form. It is recognized that new developments are to be expected, and that revisions of the standard will
be necessary as the state-of-the-art progresses and further experience is gained. It is felt, however, that
uniform guidelines for fall protection programs are very much needed and that the standard in its present
form provides for the minimum criteria necessary to develop and implement a comprehensive managed fall
protection program.
The Z359 Committee acknowledges the critical role of design in influencing the use of proper fall protection
equipment. Designs which eliminate fall hazards through the proper application of the hierarchy of safety
controls are the preferred method for fall protection. Design deficiencies often increase the risk for employ-
ees who may be exposed to fall hazards: examples are (1) lack of rail systems to prevent falls from machines,
equipment and structures; (2) failure to provide engineered anchorages where use of personal fall arrest
systems are anticipated; (3) no provision for safe access to elevated work areas; (4) installation of machines
or equipment at heights, rather than floor/ground level to preclude access to elevated areas; (5) failure to plan
for the use of travel restriction or work positioning devices. To that end, this series of standards also provides
guidance for design considerations for new buildings and facilities.
Basic fall safety principles have been incorporated into these standards, including hazard survey, hazard
elimination and control, and education and training. The primary intent is to ensure a proactive approach
to fall protection. However, the reactive process of accident investigation is also addressed to ensure that
adequate attention is given to causation of falls.
The Z359 Committee solicits public input that may suggest the need for revisions to this standard. Such input
should be sent to the Secretariat, ASC Z359, American Society of Safety Engineers, 1800 E. Oakton Street,
Des Plaines, IL 60018-2187.
This standard was developed and approved for submittal to ANSI by the American National Standards
Committee on Standards for Fall Protection, Z359. Committee approval of the standard does not necessar-
ily imply that all committee members voted for its approval. At the time it approved this standard, the Z359
Committee had the following members:
Randall Wingfield, Chair
Basil Tominna, P.E., Vice Chair
Timothy R. Fisher, CSP, CHMM, ARM, CPEA, Secretary
Jennie Dalesandro, Administrative Technical Support
Organization Represented Name of Representative
3M Raymond Mann
Michael Cameron
American Airlines Len Bradley
American Society of Safety Engineers Jubal D. Hamernik, Ph.D., P.E.
John Stephen Frost, CSP
Bashlin Industries, Inc. Preston Anderson
Bradley S. McGill
Boeing Company Chuck Orebaugh
Joey R. Junio, P.E.
Buckingham Mfg. Co., Inc. James Rullo
DeForest Canfield
Capital Safety Group J. Thomas Wolner, P.E.
Judd Perner
Chevron Craig Berkenmeier
Joshua Ockmond, CSP
Clear Channel Outdoor Jim Poage
Dan Rossi
ClimbTech LLC Karl Guthrie
Eric Patrick
Elk River, Inc. Delisa Calhoun
Erik Arendall
Ellis Fall Safety Solutions, LLC J. Nigel Ellis, Ph.D., P.E., CSP, CPE
John T. Whitty, P.E.
FallTech Dustin Hawkins
Paul Breves
Flexible Lifeline Systems Hugh Armstrong
Amber Svoboda
General Motors Ken Mahnick
Kyle Sullivan
Gravitec Systems, Inc. Randall Wingfield
Dave Lough
Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection & Insurance Co. Timothy Healey
Jerry Kucharski, CFPS
High Engineering Corp. Greg Small, P.Eng., M.Eng.
Doug Myette
Honeywell Safety Products Bradley Rohlf
Chris Huber
ISEA – International Safety Equipment Association Dan Shipp
Indianapolis Power and Light David H. Pate, CUSA
David Baldwin
Ingersoll Rand Mark Winchester
INSPEC International Ltd. Paul Clarke, CEng, MIMechE
Andrew Diamond, MInstP, BSc (Hons)
LJB Inc. Thomas Kramer, P.E., CSP
Rupert Noton, CEng, MIStructE
Latchways PLC Tim Bissett, BEng (Hons), CEng, MIMechE
Tim Fletcher
Lawrence Livermore National Security Kevin Goodwin
Steve McConnell
Liberty Mutual Group John Rabovsky, MS, CSP, ARM
Cal Sparks
Lighthouse Safety LLC John Corriveau
MSA Marc Harkins
John Giovengo
Monsanto Robert Kling, P.E., CSP
Adam Chapin
Murdock Webbing Co. Inc. Bob Golz
Greg Pilgrim
National Association of Tower Erectors Gordon Lyman
Don Doty
Pamela R. Huck, Inc. Pamela Huck, CSP
Parsons Engineering Group William R. Parsons, P.Eng.
Ryan Newbury, P.Eng.
Peakworks Tim Accursi
Gabe Fusco
PenSafe Keith Smith
Pigeon Mountain Industries, Inc. Jeff Bowles
Kim Hunter
Reliance Industries, LLC Dan Henn
W. Joe Shaw
SPRAT – Society of Professional Rope Loui McCurley
Access Technicians Jim Frank
Safety Connection, Inc. Clint Honeycutt, Sr.
Janice Honeycutt
Safety Equipment Institute Steve Sanders
Safety Through Engineering, Inc. (dba STE, Inc.) Michael C. Wright, P.E., CPE, CSP
Mark Williams
Sellstrom Manufacturing Co./RTC Division Kenneth Lemke
Steve Batke
Shell Exploration & Production Co. Steven Kim Biggs
Joe B. George
Skylotec North America, LP Mark Conover
Kurani Seyhan
SPANCO, Inc. / Rigid Lifelines Arnie Galpin, P.E.
Tim Bambrick
Sparkling Clean Window Company & Surface Sam Terry
Solutions Art Schneider
Sturges Manufacturing Co., Inc. Richard Griffith
Tyler Griffith
Superior Energy Services, Inc. Spencer Colbert
Noel J. Spicuza, III
Tractel Inc. Doug Knapp
Catalin Anesia
Transport Workers Union James Mark
Travelers Scott H. Richert, CSP, ARM, ALCM
Tritech Fall Protection Systems, Inc. John Seto, P.E
Craig Siciliani
UL LLC Steven D. Corrado
G.W. Barrett
United Auto Workers Tom Kinman
Matthew S. Uptmor
U.S. Air Force Safety Center Mark S. Kantorowicz
Robert Baker
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Shawn Smith
Shaun Reed
U.S. Department of Interior – BSEE John M. Cushing, Jr.
Wilbon Rhome
U.S. Department of the Navy Basil Tominna, P.E.
Shawn Smith
Vertical Access LLC Kelly Streeter, P.E.
Keith Luscinski
WJE Daniel Gach, AIA, NCARB
Jason Kamman, CSP
Walt Disney Company Ken Young, P.E.
Ian Bevan
Western Area Power Administration Patrick T. Nies
Will Schnyer
Subgroup Z359.15 had the following members:
Kevin Denis, Chair

Hugh Armstrong
Lynn Camp
Paul Clarke, CEng, MIMechE
Mark Conover
J. Nigel Ellis, Ph.D., P.E., CSP, CPE
Jim Frank
Doug Knapp
Thomas Kramer, P.E., CSP
Raymond Mann
Loui McCurley
Chuck Orebaugh
John Rabovsky, MS, CSP, ARM
Shaun Reed
Sam Terry
Rick Vance
Kynan Wynne
Contents SECTION .................................................................................................................. PAGE
1. Scope, Purpose, Application, Exceptions and Interpretations......................... 8

1.1 Scope...................................................................................................... 8
1.2 Purpose and Application......................................................................... 8
1.3 Exceptions............................................................................................... 8
1.4 Interpretations......................................................................................... 9
2. Definitions........................................................................................................ 9
3. Design Requirements...................................................................................... 9
3.1 Single Anchor Lifeline Components........................................................ 9
3.2 Fall Arrester Components...................................................................... 12
4. Qualification and Verification Testing.............................................................. 14

4.1 Test Equipment and Specimens............................................................. 14
4.2 System and Subsystem Qualification Testing........................................ 16
4.3 Component, Constituent and Element Qualification Testing.................. 20
5. Markings and Instructions.............................................................................. 20

5.1 General Marking Requirements............................................................. 20
5.2 Specific Marking Requirements............................................................. 21
5.3 General Instruction Requirements......................................................... 22
5.4 Specific Instruction Requirements.......................................................... 23
6. User Inspection, Maintenance and Storage of Equipment............................. 25

6.1 Inspection............................................................................................... 25
6.2 Maintenance and Storage...................................................................... 26
7. References..................................................................................................... 26
Appendix: Figures.............................................................................................. 28
ANSI/ASSE Z359.15-2014 Safety Requirements for Single Anchor Lifelines and
American National Standard Fall Arresters for Personal Fall Arrest Systems
STANDARD REQUIREMENTS EXPLANATORY INFORMATION

(Not part of American National Standard Z359.15)
1. SCOPE, PURPOSE, APPLICATION, EXCEP-
TIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS
1.1 Scope. This standard establishes requirements E1.1 Training, use, inspection and removal from
for the design criteria, qualification testing (perfor- service of single anchor lifelines and fall arresters
mance requirements), marking and instructions, is also addressed in ANSI/ASSE Z359.2, which pro-
user inspections, maintenance and storage and vides the requirements for fall protection program
removal from service of single anchor lifelines and management.
fall arresters for users within the capacity range of
130 to 310 pounds (59 to 140 kg).
1.2 Purpose and Application.
1.2.1 This standard addresses minimum guidelines E1.2.1 This is a voluntary consensus standard. The
for the design, manufacture and testing of single legal requirements for protection against falls from
anchor lifelines and fall arresters. heights are established by applicable regulatory
bodies governing occupational safety.
1.2.2 This standard applies to single anchor life-

lines and fall arresters used in fall arrest applica-
tions.
1.2.3 Before any equipment shall bear the mark-

ing Z359.15 or be represented in any way as being
in compliance with this standard, all requirements
of this standard shall be met through qualification
and verification testing according to ANSI/ASSE
Z359.7.
1.2.4 Unless otherwise specified, the values stated

in this standard are expressed as nominal values.
Except for temperature limits, values, which are
not stated as maxima or minima, shall be subject
to a tolerance of +/- 5%. Unless otherwise speci-
fied, the ambient temperature for testing shall be
between 35°F (1.6°C) and 100°F (37.7°C) and the
temperature limits shall be subject to an accuracy
of +/- 2°F (+/- 1°C).
1.2.5 In this standard, values for measurement are

followed by an equivalent in parentheses, but only
the first stated value shall be regarded as the re-
quirement. Equivalent values in parentheses are
not considered the requirement, as these values
can be approximate.
1.3 Exceptions.
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1.3.1 The requirements of this standard do not ad-

dress window cleaning belts and sports-related ac-
tivities.
1.3.2 The requirements of this standard do not ad- E1.3.2 Single anchor lifelines can be used in ver-
dress horizontal lifelines. tical, sloped and horizontal applications. Single
anchor lifelines are characterized by only a single
anchor or anchor system being loaded when arrest-
ing a fall.
1.3.3 The requirements of this standard do not ad-

dress fall arresters used on horizontal lifelines.
1.3.4 The requirements of this standard do not ap- E1.3.4 Requirements for rope adjusters can be
ply to rope adjusters used in positioning or travel found in ANSI/ASSE Z359.3.
restraint systems.
1.4 Interpretations. Requests for interpretations

of this standard shall be in writing and addressed
to the Secretariat of this standard.
1.5 The requirements of this standard supersede

any corresponding requirements in the ANSI/ASSE
Z359.1-2007, Safety Requirements for Personal
Fall Arrest Systems, Subsystems, and Compo-
nents.
2. DEFINITIONS
Please refer to ANSI/ASSE Z359.0, Definitions and

Nomenclature Used for Fall Protection and Fall Ar-
rest, for definitions of terms used in this standard.
3. DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Single Anchor Lifeline Components.
3.1.1 Connectors integral to single anchor life-

lines shall meet the requirements of ANSI/ASSE
Z359.12.
3.1.2 Rope used in single anchor lifelines shall

meet the requirements of 7.2.1.
3.1.3 When tested in accordance with reference

7.2.2, rope used for a single anchor lifeline shall
have an elastic elongation of not greater than 10%
at a load of 1,800 pounds (8 kN).
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3.1.4 Rope used for single anchor lifelines shall

have a minimum nominal diameter of 0.433 inch
(11 mm).
3.1.5 Rope used for single anchor lifelines shall E3.1.5 Typical rope construction includes the use
be fabricated without knots or splices in the strand of knots in the fibers and yarns, which is accept-
bundles. able at that level of rope manufacturing. The use of
knots to connect strand bundles reduces the rope’s
integrity.
3.1.6 Materials used in the construction of single E3.1.6 Industrial grade synthetic fibers include ny-
anchor vertical lifelines shall be made from high te- lon, polyester, copolymers, PEN materials and oth-
nacity industrial grade synthetic fibers, except for ers. Ropes may be blended from different materials
wire rope lifelines described in 3.1.12. to achieve a desired product (reduced weight, abra-
sion resistance, increased strength, etc.).
At the time of publication of this standard, webbing

was not generally used as a material of construction
for single anchor lifelines and is, therefore, outside
the scope of this standard.
3.1.7 When tested in accordance with 4.3.1, a sin- E3.1.7 Single anchor lifelines are commonly termi-
gle anchor lifeline, supplied with a factory termina- nated at time of manufacture by a splice, swage
tion, shall have a breaking strength not less than or stitched termination. Using knots, termination
5,000 pounds (22 kN). plates, descent control devices or equalizing an-
chor systems in lieu of a manufactured termination
in the field to anchor the lifeline is the responsibil-
ity of the local competent person and beyond the
scope of this standard. Knots are commonly used to
redirect the lifeline and create anchor systems. The
competent person should ensure that the knot used
is correct for the application and does not adversely
affect the performance of the system in regards to
strength or security. Refer to training requirements
in ANSI/ASSE Z359.2.
3.1.8 Single anchor lifelines supplied with a factory

termination shall be terminated by one of the fol-
lowing methods:
3.1.8.1 Spliced. Spliced eye terminations in rope

shall be made in accordance with the rope manu-
facturer’s recommendation, subject to the following
requirements. Eye splices in twisted rope having
three or more strands shall have a minimum of four
tucks. A properly sized thimble shall be part of a
formed eye termination (see Figure 4). Knots shall
not be used to form end terminations. Terminations
(including cut ends) and splices shall be seized,
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whipped or otherwise integrally finished to prevent

the termination or splice from unraveling or un-
splicing. See Figure 4a.
3.1.8.2 Stitched. Stitched eye terminations on rope

shall be sewn using lock stitches. Thread shall be
of the same material type as the rope and shall be
of a contrasting color to facilitate inspection by the
unaided eye with 20/20 vision, or vision corrected
to 20/20 at a nominal distance of 12 inches (305
mm). A properly sized thimble shall be part of a
formed eye termination. Rope ends shall be seared
or otherwise prevented from unraveling. See Fig-
ure 4b.
3.1.8.3 Swaged. Swaged eye terminations in rope

using swages shall be made in accordance with the
rope manufacturer’s recommendation. The select-
ed swage shall be appropriately sized for the diam-
eter of the lifeline and its edge chamfered to not af-
fect the performance of the lifeline. See Figure 4c.
3.1.9 When tested in accordance with 4.3.1, a sin- E3.1.9 There are single anchor lifelines, typically
gle anchor lifeline, supplied without a factory termi- static kernmantle ropes that are used for multiple
nation, shall have a minimum breaking strength not purposes. It is possible for a single anchor lifeline
less than 6,000 pounds (26.7 kN). to be used for a descent control or rescue line as
well as a single anchor lifeline. During rope access,
rescue and descent control applications, a single
anchor lifeline may be used as a descent control
line or even a rescue line. The scope of Z359.15 ap-
plies only to the single anchor lifeline requirements,
but it is possible that a single anchor lifeline quali-
fies for other purposes.
3.1.10 Ropes used as a single anchor lifeline in-

tended to have dual purposes for ascending and
descending in rope access or descent control ap-
plications shall meet the requirements of 7.2.2.
3.1.11 When tested in accordance with 4.2.3, fol-

lowing the dynamic performance test, the single
anchor lifeline, fall arrester and connecting sub-
system shall support a load not less than 1,800
pounds (8 kN).
3.1.12 Single anchor lifelines made from wire rope

shall have:
3.1.12.1 A breaking strength not less than 6,000
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pounds (26.7 kN) when tested in accordance with

4.3.1.
3.1.12.2 A diameter not less than 0.3125 inch (8

mm) and shall be constructed in accordance with
7.3.1 or 7.4.1 as applicable.
3.1.12.3 A factory termination by means of one

of the following methods: a) spliced eye with one
swaged fitting, or b) return eye with a minimum of
two swaged fittings. All formed eyes shall incorpo-
rate a properly sized thimble. See Figure 4a.
3.2 Fall Arrester Components.
3.2.1 Connectors integral to fall arresters shall

meet the requirements of ANSI/ASSE Z359.12.
3.2.2 Non-integral energy absorbers and energy

absorbing lanyards specified for use with fall ar-
resters shall meet the requirements of ANSI/ASSE
Z359.13.
3.2.3 Lanyards integral to fall arresters shall: E3.2.3 Fall arrester and lanyard combinations are
available that combine the elastic properties of the
lanyard and clutching properties of the fall arrester
to keep fall arrest forces below acceptable levels
rather than relying on a personal energy absorber.
Fall arrester designs that include an integral lanyard
may or may not include a Z359.13 energy absorber.
3.2.3.1 Be made from synthetic material having

strength, aging, abrasion resistance and heat re-
sistance characteristics equivalent or superior to
polyamides.
3.2.3.2 Be terminated by either splice or stitched

method described in 3.1.8.1 or 3.1.8.2.
3.2.3.3 Be tested in accordance with 4.3.2 and

shall sustain a load of 3,600 pounds (16 kN), with-
out failure, for a period no less than 1 minute.
3.2.3.4 Have integral connectors that meet the re-

quirements of ANSI/ASSE Z359.12.
3.2.3.5 Have a deployment indicator or warning

flag that is obvious when lanyard has seen fall ar-
rest service or loading.
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3.2.4 Fall arresters shall be automatic in their lock-

ing (fall stopping) function and not require any in-
tervention for the locking features to be engaged
or activated.
3.2.5 Fall arresters locking mechanism(s) shall be E3.2.5 The intent of guarding against overriding
designed to engage if the connecting arm, lever, the fall arresters locking features is to reduce the
connector or link is being held open. When tested in possibility that the device may be deactivated if re-
accordance with the dynamic performance manual flexively grabbed and held open, oriented in a non-
override test in 4.2.4, the fall arrester shall arrest engaged position or pushed down the lifeline during
the fall and hold the load for a minimum of 1 minute onset of a fall. This design requirement will cause
without moving further down the lifeline. The total the fall arrester to lock and arrest a fall if the lever
fall distance shall be not greater than 11 feet (3.35 or connecting link is being held in the open position.
m). The average arrest force shall not exceed 900
pounds (4 kN). The maximum arrest force shall not Fall arresters are often being handled to install, re-
exceed 1,800 pounds (8 kN). move, place overhead and move around obstruc-
tions. This creates opportunities for the locking
mechanism to be overridden or held in an open po-
sition. Fall arresters that rely on a lever to lock, or
when there is no lever, rely on the orientation of the
device on the rope, can be rendered ineffective by
any influence holding the lever in the upward posi-
tion or orienting the device. It is the intent of this
standard to require fall arresters to have alternative
means of activation, or unique design, which do not
rely solely on the position of the lever or device to
lock.
3.2.6 Two consecutive and deliberate actions shall E3.2.6 Common fall arrester designs have a lock,
be required to open the fall arrester. pin, connector or hinge that must be opened or
removed before the device can be installed or re-
moved from the lifeline. This additional step assists
in guarding the device from being unintentionally
removed. It also prevents the device from disen-
gaging from the lifeline when incidental contact with
surrounding structure occurs.
3.2.7 Fall arresters shall not include a knot or hitch. E3.2.7 Knots are not predictable or testable over
the given lifetime.
3.2.8 Integral rings or similar openings shall be de-

signed to eliminate incompatibility and gate loading
of the mating connectors recommended or permit-
ted by the manufacturer.
3.2.9 When tested in accordance with 4.3.2, fall

arresters shall sustain a load of 3,600 pounds (16
kN), without failure, for a period no less than 1 min-
ute. The fall arrester may deform, however it shall
not release the load.
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3.2.10 When tested in accordance with 4.2.2, at

ambient conditions, and following conditioning
specified in 4.2.5, the fall arrester shall lock on the
lifeline and remain locked, holding the test weight
for 1 minute, until released. The fall arrester does
not need to function at the conclusion of the test.
The total fall distance shall be not greater than 11
feet (3.35 m). The average arrest force shall not
exceed 900 pounds (4 kN). The maximum arrest
force shall not exceed 1,800 pounds (8 kN).
3.2.11 When tested according to 4.2.1, the fall ar- E3.2.11 The intent of automatic travel is to elimi-
rester shall travel up and down the lifeline without nate fall arrester designs that require the user to
assistance. physically open or hold open the fall arrester for it
to travel along the lifeline. Most fall arrester designs
use the lanyard to pull the fall arrester up and down
the lifeline. Rope adjusters, used for work position-
ing and travel restraint systems, are an example of
manually operated devices that should not be used
in vertical, climbing or descending applications and
are outside the scope of this standard.
3.2.12 When tested in accordance with 4.2.3, the

fall arrester shall not move down the lifeline more
than 4 inches (102 mm) when a force no less than
660 pounds (2.94 kN) is applied.
3.2.13 When tested in accordance with reference E3.2.13 Although corrosion protection is required
7.5.1 for a minimum of 48 hours, followed by 1 on the fall arrester, it is important that the local
hour drying time, the fall arrester shall operate as competent person consider the environment in
intended and shall show no evidence of corrosion which the fall arrester and lifeline are being used.
of the base metal. The presence of white scale is Chemicals, paint, grease, cleaning agents or other
permitted. foreign agents can adversely affect the mechanical
operation of the fall arrester as well as the physical
condition of the fall arrester and lifeline. Additional
research may be required at the local level to deter-
mine what affect the local environment will have on
the equipment in use.
4. QUALIFICATION AND VERIFICATION TESTING
4.1 Test Equipment and Specimens.
4.1.1 Qualification and Verification Testing. Sin-

gle anchor lifelines and fall arresters shall undergo
qualification and verification testing according to
ANSI/ASSE Z359.7, Qualification and Verification
Testing of Fall Protection Products.
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4.1.2 Drop Test Structure. The drop test structure

shall meet the requirements of ANSI/ASSE Z359.7.
4.1.3 Test Weight. The test weight shall be of a

rigid construction, weighing 282 +/- 2 pounds (128
+/- 0.9 kg). The center of gravity shall be 15 +/- 0.5
inches (381 +/- 13 mm) from the upper bearing
point of the test weight. An example of a test weight
is illustrated in Figure 5.
4.1.4 Test Instrumentation. The dynamic test in-

strumentation shall meet the requirements of ANSI/
ASSE Z359.7.
4.1.5 Nylon Keeper. The nylon keeper used for the

manual override test shall be a nylon cable tie, 3/16
inch (4.8 mm) wide, 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) thick with a
loop tensile strength of 50 pounds (222 N).
4.1.6 Manual Override Test Clip. The clip used

for the manual override test to hold the fall arrester
in the open position shall be a 0.75 inch (19 mm)
single saddle wire rope clip, Type 1, Class 1 of ref-
erence 7.3.2, or equivalent. See Figure 6.
4.1.7 Termination Device. When testing non-

terminated lifelines, a termination device shall be
used to anchor the end of the lifeline to the load
cell. The termination device shall be made from
steel, aluminum or alloys and will be manufactured
within the measurements specified in Figure 7.
4.1.8 Quick Release Mechanism. The quick re-

lease mechanism shall meet the requirements of
ANSI/ASSE Z359.7.
4.1.9 Static Tensile Test Equipment. The static

tensile test equipment shall pull at a uniform rate of
not greater than 2 inches per minute (51 mm/min)
and shall measure force within an accuracy +/- 3%
of the specified load.
4.1.10 Test Specimens. Test specimens for quali-

fication testing are specified in ANSI/ASSE Z359.7.
4.1.11 Test Cable. The test cable used for the fall E4.1.11 The intent of this test is to evaluate the me-
arrester static strength test shall meet the require- chanical strength of the fall arrester while eliminat-
ments of 7.3.1 or 7.4.2. The test cable shall have a ing variability due to elongation and deformation of
breaking strength no less than 7,200 pounds (32 rope at high loads. The test cable is not required to
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kN). The test cable diameter shall not be greater be within the fall arrester rope diameter range. This
than the diameter of lifeline specified by the manu- allows for a smaller diameter cable to be selected,
facturer. which accounts for rope compression, thus allowing
the fall arrester components to be loaded in their
intended orientation.
4.1.12 Rope Block. A rope block, manufactured

according to Figure 13, shall be used to prevent fall
arresters from sliding down the lifeline during test-
ing. The rope block shall be made from steel and
have an outer dimension of 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to
51 mm). The rope block shall be at least 0.25 inch
(6 mm) thick. The center hole shall be 0.5 to 1 inch
(13 to 25 mm) in diameter. The lifeline is inserted
through the center and the lifeline is knotted be-
hind the rope block.
4.1.13 The manufacturer shall provide test speci- E4.1.13 The manufacturer will describe which en-
mens of each model and combination of: fall ar- ergy absorber, energy absorbing lanyard, lifeline,
rester, energy absorber(s), connector, integral lan- connector and fall arrester combinations are speci-
yard, energy absorbing lanyard(s) and lifeline(s). fied for use and test all combinations. Depending on
See Figure 3. design, many fall arresters are acceptable for use
on a number of lifelines and diameters, whereas
others are specific to a single lifeline.
4.1.14 Test specimens used for residual static

strength testing shall be previously tested samples
from dynamic performance testing.
4.1.15 Calculating Average Force. For dynamic E4.1.15 There may be situations where the data
performance tests, the average force shall be cal- points will go below 500 pounds (2.24 kN) during
culated. Every data point over 500 pounds (2.24 kN) testing or at the end of the event as the test weight
during the activation period of the energy absorber comes to rest. The first and last data points over
on the force/time graph will be averaged. The sum 500 pounds (2.24 kN) are used to calculate force
of the force data points above 500 pounds (2.24 average, even if data points go above and below
kN) will be divided by the total number of samples 500 pounds (2.24 kN) during the event.
above 500 pounds (2.24 kN), resulting in a force
average. See Figure 8.
4.1.16 Corner Frequency. The force measuring

equipment shall have a corner frequency meeting
the requirements of ANSI/ASSE Z359.7.
4.2 System and Subsystem Qualification Test-

ing.
4.2.1 Function Test. Assemble the lifeline, fall

arrester and connecting subsystem according to
manufacturer instructions and attach to the test
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structure. Position the fall arrester on the lifeline

no less than 24 inches (610 mm) below the attach-
ment point of the lifeline to the test structure. Ten-
sion the lifeline by suspending 10 pounds (4.5 kg)
on the bottom of the lifeline. Attach the connecting
subsystem to a lifting mechanism no more than 12
inches (305 mm) horizontally from the centerline
of the lifeline. Use a lifting mechanism to move the
fall arrester, at a speed no less than 1 foot/second
(0.3 m/s), down the lifeline for a minimum of 10 feet
(3.04 m) and back up the lifeline to the original lo-
cation, 24 inches (610 mm) from the attachment
point. Compare the test results with the require-
ments in 3.2.11.
4.2.2 Dynamic Performance Test. Assemble the E4.2.2 One of the objectives of the dynamic per-
lifeline, fall arrester and connecting subsystem ac- formance test is that the energy absorbing ability of
cording to manufacturer instructions and attach to the system occurs with the fall arrester and/or the
the test structure. Single anchor lifelines without connecting subsystem, not by an energy absorber
terminations shall be connected to the test struc- at the anchorage location of the lifeline. Although
ture using the termination device by threading the designs incorporating an energy absorber at the
lifeline through the device (see Figure 7), and pull- anchorage location can be effective, there are nu-
ing the lifeline taut with no visible slack. If the single merous applications where a lifeline is redirected,
anchor lifeline has an integral energy absorber, the affecting the performance of the energy absorber
energy absorber shall be bypassed or removed and increase the arresting force of the system. It is
and the lifeline connected directly to the test struc- the intent of this test to ensure that the fall arrester
ture. Tension the lifeline by suspending 10 pounds or connecting subsystem absorbs the energy.
(4.5 kg) on the bottom of the lifeline. Attach the
test weight to the fall arrester using the connect-
ing subsystem supplied by the manufacturer. Raise
the test weight to create the maximum free fall dis-
tance that can be obtained by the connector(s) and
lanyard. The fall arrester shall be supported by the
connecting lanyard prior to release (i.e., fall arrest-
ers are not to be locked onto the lifeline prior to
releasing the test weight). The fall arrester shall be
positioned on the lifeline no more than 24 inches
(610 mm) below the attachment point of the lifeline
to the test structure. The test weight shall then be
released from a point no more than 12 inches (305
mm) horizontally from the centerline of the lifeline.
Record the total fall distance, average arrest force
and maximum arrest forces. Repeat this test for
all connecting subsystem combinations provided
by the manufacturer as well as the maximum and
minimum lifeline diameters. Compare the test re-
sults with the requirements set forth in 3.2.10. See
Figure 10.
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4.2.3 Residual Static Strength Test. This test

shall be conducted after the dynamic performance
test using the test specimens previously tested.
Remove the test weight and connecting subsystem
and connect the static tensile equipment to the fall
arrester. The fall arrester shall remain in a locked
position and not moved to an alternate location on
the lifeline. Alternatively, the lifeline, fall arrester
and connecting subsystem may be removed and
placed into a tensile test machine, providing the
fall arrester remains in a locked position and not
moved to an alternate location on the lifeline. If the
connecting subsystem is integrally connected to
the fall arrester, attach the static test equipment to
the end of the connecting subsystem (see Figure
9). Subject the system to a force no less than 660
pounds (2.94 kN) for a period no less than 1 minute.
The time to reach this force shall be no less than 1
minute to avoid dynamic effects. If the fall arrester
moves more than 4 inches (102 mm), compare the
result with 3.2.12 and discontinue the test. After 1
minute, increase the force on the system to no less
than 1,800 pounds (8 kN) for a period no less than
1 minute. If the fall arrester begins to slide, stop
the test and terminate the lifeline using the rope
block, preventing the fall arrester’s travel. Reapply
the load to a force no less than 1,800 pounds (8
kN) for a period no less than 1 minute. Compare
the test results with the requirements in 3.1.11.
4.2.4 Dynamic Performance – Manual Override

Test. Assemble the lifeline, fall arrester and con-
necting subsystem according to manufacturer in-
structions and attach to the test structure. Single
anchor lifelines without terminations shall be con-
nected to the test structure using the termination
device by threading the lifeline through the device,
and pulling the lifeline taut with no visible slack.
Attach the test clip (4.1.6) to the lifeline. Override
the fall arrester lever or connector and hold the de-
vice in the non-engaged position using the nylon
keeper (4.1.5) attached to the manual override test
clip (see Figure 11). Adjust the manual override test
clip as needed so the fall arrester is held fully open
(simulating a hand holding the lever or connector
open). Adjust the manual override test clip so it
does not bend or hinder the lifeline. The manual
override test clip can be adjusted to hold the fall ar-
rester completely open, but not put any bends into
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the lifeline. The override test clip shall be able to

move freely on the lifeline. The nylon keeper shall
be secured around the fall arrester lever, holding
the fall arrester beyond its non-engaged position
to simulate the device being held open. If the fall
arrester does not have a lever, the nylon keeper
and manual override test clip can be used to hold
the fall arrester connector in the open position. The
fall arrester shall be positioned on the lifeline 24
inches (609.6 mm) below the attachment point of
the lifeline to the test structure. Tension the lifeline
by suspending 10 pounds (4.5 kg) on the bottom of
the lifeline. Fall arresters shall be supported by the
connecting subsystem attached to the test weight
prior to release (i.e., they are not to be locked onto
the lifeline prior to releasing the test weight). Attach
the test weight to the fall arrester using the con-
necting subsystem supplied by the manufacturer.
Raise the test weight to create the maximum free
fall distance that can be obtained by the connect-
ing subsystem. The test weight shall then be re-
leased from a point no more than 12 inches (305
mm) horizontally from the centerline of the lifeline.
Record the total fall distance, as well as the aver-
age and maximum arrest force. Repeat this test for
all fall arrester, lifeline and connecting subsystem
combinations provided by the manufacturer as well
as the maximum and minimum lifeline diameters.
Compare the test results with the requirements set
forth in 3.2.5. See Figure 12.
4.2.5 Conditioning Tests. The lifeline, fall arrester

and lanyard combinations shall be conditioned ac-
cording to the hot, cold and wet requirements listed
below. Conditioning shall include the connecting
subsystem that the manufacturer specifies for use.
Test the conditioned samples according to 4.2.2.
4.2.5.1 Hot Test. Place the lifeline, fall arrester

and lanyard in a heated chamber for no less than 2
hours at a temperature of 130 +/- 4 degrees F (54
+/- 2 C). Test within 5 minutes of removal from the
chamber and compare the results with the require-
ments of 3.2.10.
4.2.5.2 Cold Test. Place the lifeline, fall arrester

and lanyard in a refrigerated chamber for no less
than 2 hours at a temperature of -31 +/- 4 degrees
F (-35 +/- 2 C). Test within 5 minutes of removal
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from the chamber and compare the results with the

requirements of 3.2.10.
4.2.5.3 Wet Test. Submerge the lifeline, fall ar-

rester and lanyard in water at ambient temperature
for no less than 3 hours. Test within 5 minutes of
removal from the bucket and compare the results
with the requirements of 3.2.10.
4.3 Component, Constituent and Element

Qualification Testing.
4.3.1 Static Strength Test – Single Anchor Life-

line. Connect the lifeline test specimen between
the connectors of the tensile test equipment. If the
lifeline includes an integral energy absorber, in-
clude the energy absorber component in the test.
Subject the lifeline to a force no less than 5,000
pounds (22.2 kN) for terminated specimens and
6,000 pounds (26.7 kN) for non-terminated and
wire rope specimens for a period no less than 1
minute. Apply the load at no greater than 6 inches
per minute (152.4 mm/min) to avoid dynamic ef-
fects. Compare the test results with the require-
ments in 3.1.7, 3.1.9 or 3.1.12.1 as applicable.
4.3.2 Static Strength Test – Fall Arrester. Con-

nect the fall arrester to the test cable. Connect the
test cable and fall arrester test specimen between
the connectors of the tensile test equipment. If the
fall arrester has an integral connecting subsystem,
attach the static test equipment to the integral com-
ponents so they are loaded as part of the test (see
Figure 9). Engage the fall arrester in a locked posi-
tion. The load shall be applied on the fall arrester’s
locking mechanism and not applied to the body or
housing of the device. Subject the specimen to a
force no less than 3,600 pounds (16 kN) for a pe-
riod no less than 1 minute. If the fall arrester begins
to move, stop the test and terminate the rope be-
low the fall arrester using a knot immediately below
the rope block. Apply the load at no greater than 2
inches per minute (50.8 mm/min) to avoid dynamic
effects. Compare the test results with the require-
ments in 3.2.9.
5. MARKINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 General Marking Requirements.
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5.1.1 Markings shall be in English.
5.1.2 The legibility and attachment of required

markings shall endure for the life of the fall arrester
or single anchor lifeline being marked. When pres-
sure sensitive labels are used, they shall comply
with the applicable provision of UL 969-89, Mark-
ing and Labeling Systems.
5.2 Specific Marking Requirements.
5.2.1 Fall arresters shall be marked with the follow-

ing:
• Part number or model designation;

• Year of manufacture;
• Manufacturer’s name or logo;
• Capacity rating;
• Serial number;
• Standard number “Z359.15”;
• Warning to follow the manufacturer’s instructions
included with the equipment at time of shipment
from the manufacturer;
• The direction of use of the fall arrester on its sin-
gle anchor lifeline;
• The proper size(s) and type(s) of single anchor
lifeline with which the fall arrester is intended to
be used;
• Warning to use only manufacturer approved lan-
yards according to instructions.
5.2.2 Single anchor lifelines shall be marked to

identify:
• The fiber used in the material of construction;

• The diameter of lifeline;
• The length of the lifeline;
• The model of fall arrester(s) acceptable for use
with the lifeline;
• The need to avoid contact with sharp edges and
abrasive surfaces;
• Serial number;
• Manufacturer’s name or logo.
5.2.3 Integral lanyards shall be marked to identify:
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• The material used in lanyard construction;

• The length of the lanyard;
• The need to avoid contact with sharp edges and
abrasive surfaces;
• The need to make only compatible connections;
• The average arrest force, maximum free fall dis-
tance, maximum deployment distance and ca-
pacity;
• Serial number;
• Manufacturer’s name or logo.
5.3 General Instruction Requirements.
5.3.1 Instructions shall be provided to the user,

printed in English and affixed to the equipment at
the time of shipment from the manufacturer.
5.3.2 Instructions shall contain the following infor-

mation:
• A statement that the manufacturer’s instructions

shall be provided to users;
• Manufacturer’s name, address and telephone
number;
• Manufacturer’s part number or model designa-
tion for the equipment;
• Intended use and purpose of the equipment;
• Proper method of use and limitations on use of
the equipment;
• Illustrations showing locations of markings on
the equipment;
• Reproduction of printed information on all mark-
ings;
• Inspection procedures required to assure the
equipment is in serviceable condition and oper-
ating correctly;
• Anchorage requirements;
• Criteria for discarding and retiring equipment
which fails inspection;
• Procedures for cleaning, maintenance and stor-
age;
• A reference chart that indicates the clearance
requirements of the system according to the fall
arrester, energy absorbing lanyard and elonga-
tion characteristics of the lifeline.
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5.3.3 Instructions shall require that only the equip-

ment manufacturer, or persons or entities autho-
rized in writing by the manufacturer, shall make
repairs to equipment.
5.3.4 Instructions shall require the user to remove

equipment from field service if it has been subject-
ed to the forces of arresting a fall.
5.3.5 Instructions shall require the user to have a

rescue plan and the means at hand to implement it
when using the equipment.
5.3.6 Instructions shall provide warnings regarding:
• Altering the equipment;

• Misusing the equipment;
• Using combinations of fall arresters, lanyards,
lifelines, which may affect or interfere with the
safe function of each other;
• Exposing the equipment to chemicals which may
produce a harmful effect and to consult the man-
ufacturer in cases of doubt;
• Using the equipment around moving machinery
and electrical hazards;
• Using the equipment near sharp edges and abra-
sive surfaces, as well as the need for abrasion
protection;
• Other warnings deemed necessary by the manu-
facturer.
5.4 Specific Instruction Requirements.
5.4.1 Fall Arresters. In addition to the require-

ments in 5.3, instructions for fall arresters shall in-
clude:
• Acceptable lanyards, by make and model, for

use with the fall arrester;
• How to attach the lanyard to the fall arrester;
• The maximum allowable free fall distance;
• Proper method of connection to the full body har-
ness (frontal and/or dorsal connection);
• Warnings that the fall arrester shall be attached
to no more than one lifeline;
• Warnings that the fall arrester shall be attached
to no more than one user;
• Warnings to avoid exposure to physical and
chemical hazards which the fall arrester is not
designed to withstand;
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• Instructions to not manipulate or hold the fall ar-

rester body or lever, but to move the fall arrester
up/down by the lanyard;
• The maximum arrest distance and clearance
requirement when dynamically tested in accor-
dance with the requirements of this standard;
• The proper size, construction and type of single
anchor lifelines with which the fall arrester is in-
tended to be used;
• Warnings to emphasize that anchoring be above
the user to prevent pendulum fall;
• Warnings to emphasize use is not suitable when
the user is positioned on an unstable surface,
fine grain material or particulate solids such as
sand or coal;
• Information for determining total fall distance in-
cluding lifeline elongation;
• Capacity range of 130 to 310 pounds;
• Standard number “Z359.15”.
5.4.2 Single Anchor Lifelines. In addition to the

requirements in 5.3, instructions for single anchor
lifelines shall include:
• The material used in the single anchor lifeline con-

struction;
• Proper method of coupling the single anchor life-
line to anchorage connectors and anchorages
with which it is intended to be used and to adja-
cent components of the system;
• The minimum static strength;
• Warnings that only one fall arrester be attached to
the single anchor lifeline;
• Warnings that only one user can be attached to
the single anchor lifeline;
• Warnings to avoid exposure to physical and
chemical hazards which the single anchor lifeline
is not designed to withstand;
• Warnings using the equipment near sharp edges
and abrasive surfaces and the need for abrasion
protection;
• Warnings to avoid swing fall hazards encountered
when the anchorage is not directly overhead;
• The proper fall arrester, by make and model, with
which the single anchor lifeline is intended to be
used;
• The percentage of stretch of the lifeline when
loaded to 900 pounds (4 kN);
• Capacity range of 130 to 310 pounds;
• Lifeline melting point;
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• If permissible by the manufacturer, specific direc-
tions how to cut damaged sections from the life-
lines and how to re-label non-terminated lifelines
according to 5.2.2;
• Direction how to stabilize the lower end of the life-
line with a weight or alternative method directed
by the manufacturer;
• Direction(s) regarding placement of a rope stop to
prevent the fall arrester inadvertently traveling off
the end of the lifeline.
6. USER INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE AND

STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT
6.1 Inspection. Users of fall arresters and single

anchor lifelines shall, at a minimum, comply with all
manufacturer instructions regarding the inspection.
The user’s organization shall retain the manufac-
turer’s instructions and make them readily available
to all users.
6.1.1 Fall arresters and single anchor lifelines shall

be inspected by the user before each use and, ad-
ditionally, by a competent person other than the
user at intervals of no more than one year.
6.1.2 Inspection criteria for fall arresters and single

anchor lifelines shall be set by the user’s organi-
zation. Such criteria for the equipment shall equal
or exceed the greater of the criteria established by
this standard or the manufacturer’s instructions.
6.1.3 When inspection reveals defects in, dam-

age to, or inadequate maintenance of fall arrest-
ers and single anchor lifelines, the equipment shall
be permanently removed from service or undergo
adequate corrective maintenance before return to
service.
6.1.4 In addition to the inspection requirements set

forth in the manufacturer’s instructions, fall arrest-
ers and single anchor lifelines shall be inspected at
both inspection levels described in 6.1.1 for:
• Absence or illegibility of markings;

• Absence of any elements affecting the equipment
form, fit or function;
• Evidence of defects in or damage to hardware el-
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ements including cracks, sharp edges, deforma-

tion, corrosion, chemical attack, excessive heat-
ing, alteration and excessive wear;
• Evidence of defects in or damage to synthetics or
ropes including fraying, unsplicing, unlaying, kink-
ing, knotting, broken or pulled stitches, excessive
elongation, chemical attack, excessive soiling,
abrasion, alteration, needed or excessive lubrica-
tion, excessive aging and excessive wear.
6.2 Maintenance and Storage. Maintenance and

storage of fall arresters and single anchor lifelines
shall be conducted by the user’s organization in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Unique issues, which may arise due to conditions
of use, shall be addressed with the manufacturer.
6.2.1 Fall arresters and single anchor lifelines in

need of or scheduled for maintenance shall be
tagged as unusable and removed from service.
6.2.2 Fall arresters and single anchor lifelines shall

be stored in a manner as to preclude damage from
environmental factors such as heat, light, exces-
sive moisture, abrasion, oil, chemicals and their
vapors or other degrading elements.
7. REFERENCES
When referred to herein, the specific references cit-

ed below (inclusive of the revision designated) shall
be applied. If any of the listed references is revised
or is obsoleted by its issuer, the specific reference
cited below shall continue to apply to this standard
unless and until this standard is officially amended.
7.1 American Society of Safety Engineers, 1800

East Oakton Street, Des Plaines, Illinois, 60018-
2187
7.1.1 ANSI/ASSE Z359.0, Definitions and Nomen-

clature Used for Fall Protection and Fall Arrest
7.1.2 ANSI/ASSE Z359.1, Safety Requirements for

Personal Fall Arrest Systems, Subsystems, and
Components
7.1.3 ANSI/ASSE Z359.2, Minimum Requirements

for a Comprehensive Managed Fall Protection Pro-
gram
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7.1.4 ANSI/ASSE Z359.3, Safety Requirements for

Positioning and Travel Restraint Systems
7.1.5 ANSI/ASSE Z359.7, Qualification and Verifi-

cation Testing of Fall Protection Products
7.1.6 ANSI/ASSE Z359.12, Connecting Compo-

nents for Personal Fall Arrest Systems
7.1.7 ANSI/ASSE Z359.13, Personal Energy Ab-

sorbers and Energy Absorbing Lanyards
7.2 Cordage Institute, 994 Old Eagle School Road,

Suite 1019, Wayne, PA, 19087-1866
7.2.1 CI 1201-06, Fiber Ropes: General Standard
7.2.2 CI 1801-07, Low Stretch and Static Kernman-

tle Life Safety Rope
7.3 General Services Administration, Specifica-

tion Branch, 7th & D Street, S.W. Washington, DC
20407
7.3.1 Federal Specification, RR-W-410E, Wire

Rope and Strand
7.3.2 Federal Specification, FF-C-450D, Clamps,

Wire Rope
7.4 U.S. Department of Defense, National Publica-

tion Form Center 5801 Tabor Avenue Philadelphia,
PA 19120-5099
7.4.1 MIL-DTL-83420M, Military Specification, Wire

Rope, Flexible, for Aircraft Control
7.4.2 MIL-DTL-83140A, Military Specification, De-

tail Specification for Wire Rope; Steel, (Stainless
Steel) Preformed, Non-rotating for Aircraft Rescue
Hoist and Cargo Handling
7.5 ASTM, 1916 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103
7.5.1 ASTM, B117-90, Method of Spray Salt (Fog)

Testing
7.6 Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten

Road, Northbrook, IL, 60062-2096
7.6.1 UL 969-89, Marking and Labeling Systems
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Lifeline Guide Lifeline Guide

Connector
Cam Lever Housing Opening
Cam Lever
Integral Housing Housing Lifeline Guide

Ring
Housing Connector Housing

Opening
Cam Lever
Cam Lever
Housing Integral
Ring
Lifeline Guide Lifeline Guide Lifeline Guide
Figure 1: Examples of Typical

Fall Arresters
Drawings © Copyright
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Twisted Rope Kernmantle Rope Twisted Rope Twisted Rope Kernmantle Rope Kernmantle Rope Wire Rope
Non-Terminated Non-Terminated Terminated Terminated Sewn Terminated Sewn Terminated Terminated
Figure 2: Examples of
Single Anchor Vertical Lifelines
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30
Non Non Carabiner Carabiner Carabiner Snaphook Carabiner Snaphook
Terminated Terminated
Rope Rope Energy
ANSI/ASSE Z359.15-2014
Absorber
Lifeline
American National Standard
Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline
Fall Arrester
Fall Arrester Fall Arrester Fall Arrester Fall Arrester Fall Arrester Fall Arrester Fall Arrester Snaphook
Carabiner
Integral
Snaphook Lanyard Snaphook Snaphook
Carabiner Carabiner
Integral Snaphook
Lanyard Energy
Absorbing
Lanyard
Integral Energy Integral Integral
Energy Absorbing Energy Energy
Absorbing Lanyard Absorbing Absorbing
Lanyard Lanyard Lanyard
Arresters and Connecting Subsystem Combinations

Figure 3 : Examples of Single Anchor Vertical Lifelines, Fall
Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline Lifeline
Tensioner Tensioner Tensioner Tensioner Tensioner Tensioner
SAFETY ENGINEERS
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Thimble Splice Synthetic Rope
Figure 4a: Spliced Eye Termination
Thimble Stitches Synthetic Rope
Figure 4b: Stitched Eye Termination
Thimble Swaged Fitting Wire Rope
Figure 4c: Return Eye Termination
Figure 4: Examples of
Formed Eyes
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Center of Gravity
Connection for
Hip Test
Figure 5: Example of Weight
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Figure 6: Manual Override Test Clip
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The Termination
Device shall be
Between 0.25-
0.75 in (6.4-19
cm) Thick
Size According to 10-12 in

Rope Diameter (25-30.5 cm)
(chamfered edges)
1.5-2 in
(3.8-5 cm)
0.25-0.75 in
(0.64-1.9 cm)
Front Side With Lifeline
Figure 7: Termination Device
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7.0
6.8
Figure 8: Example of Force

6.6
Average Calculation
Total # of Samples
TIME
6.4
y1 y2 y3
x3
x2
x1
(1/1000 Sampling Rate)
Load Sample (x)
6.2
500 lbs.
1200
1000
900
1100
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
FORCE
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Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage

I-Beam I-Beam I-Beam I-Beam
Load Cell Load Cell Load Cell Load Cell
24 in (61 cm) 24 in (61 cm)
24 in (61 cm) 24 in (61 cm)
Fall Arrester Fall Arrester

(Locked) (Locked)
Fall Arrester Fall Arrester

(Locked) (Locked)
Static Test Static Test Static Test Static Test

Equipment Equipment Equipment Equipment
Figure 9: Fall Arrester

Static Strength Test
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BEFORE DROP AFTER DROP
Anchorage Anchorage
I-Beam I-Beam
Winch Winch
Load Cell Load Cell
Quick Release Quick Release

Mechanism Mechanism
24” Test Weight

(61 cm) Test Weight Before Drop
Before Drop Test
Test
Fall Arrester Integral Lanyard

(Unlocked) or Lanyard
Sample(s)
Supplied by Activation Distance
Manufacturer
Stretch of Lifeline
Fall Arrester
Vertical Lifeline (Locked)
Total Fall
Distance
Energy Absorber
Deployment
Distance/Lanyard
Stretch
Lifeline
Tensioners
Lifeline
10 lbs. (5 kg)
Tensioners
10 lbs. (5 kg) 12” max.
(305 mm)
Figure 10: Dynamic Performance Test
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I- Beam
Winch
Quick Release
Mechanism
Energy Absorbing
Lanyard
Test Weight
Before Drop
Test
Figure 11: Manual Override

Test Clip Connection
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BEFORE DROP AFTER DROP
Anchorage Anchorage
I-Beam I-Beam
Winch Winch
Load Cell Load Cell
Quick Release Quick Release

Mechanism Mechanism
24” Test Weight

(61 cm) Test Weight Before Drop
Before Drop Test
Test
Manual Integral Lanyard

Override or Lanyard
Test Clip Sample(s) Manual
Supplied by Override Activation Distance
Fall Arrester Manufacturer Test Clip
(Unlocked)
Stretch of Lifeline
Fall Arrester
Vertical Lifeline (Locked)
Total Fall
Distance
Energy Absorber
Deployment
Distance/Lanyard
Stretch
Lifeline
Tensioners
Lifeline
10 lbs. (5 kg)
Tensioners
10 lbs. (5 kg) 12” max.
(305 mm)
Figure 12: Manual Override

Performance Test
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Figure 13a: Rope Block
Figure 13b: Rope Block with

Stopper Knot in Lifeline
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ASSE Sets the Standard.

We have a variety of standards for purchase that will improve productivity,
increase efficiency, reduce cost and minimize risk.
ANSI Secretariat for:

• A10 Construction & Demolition Operations
• A1264 Protection of Floor & Wall Openings
• Z9 Ventilation Systems
• Z10 Safety & Health Management
• Z15 Motor Vehicle Safety
• Z88 Respiratory Protection
• Z117 Confined Spaces
• Z244 Control of Hazardous Energy – Lockout/Tagout & Alternative Methods
• Z359 Fall Protection
• Z390 Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Training Programs
• Z490 Safety, Health & Environmental Training
• Z590 Competence & Certification in the Safety Profession and Prevention Through Design
U.S. Technical Advisory Group Administrator for:

• Fall Protection
• Safety & Health Management Systems
• Risk Management/Assessment
For more information visit www.asse.org/standards

or contact customer service at +1.847.699.2929
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AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Part of the Fall Protection Code

American National Standard

Safety Requirements for Single Anchor Lifelines and

American Society of Safety Engineers

Approved August 25, 2014

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

Published February 2015 by:

American Society of Safety Engineers

Copyright ©2015 by American Society of Safety Engineers

No part of this publication may be reproduced

Printed in the United States of America

Organization Represented Name of Representative

Subgroup Z359.15 had the following members:

Kevin Denis, Chair

1. Scope, Purpose, Application, Exceptions and Interpretations......................... 8

4. Qualification and Verification Testing.............................................................. 14

5. Markings and Instructions.............................................................................. 20

6. User Inspection, Maintenance and Storage of Equipment............................. 25

STANDARD REQUIREMENTS EXPLANATORY INFORMATION

1.2 Purpose and Application.

1.2.2 This standard applies to single anchor life-

1.2.3 Before any equipment shall bear the mark-

1.2.4 Unless otherwise specified, the values stated

1.2.5 In this standard, values for measurement are

1.3.1 The requirements of this standard do not ad-

1.3.3 The requirements of this standard do not ad-

1.4 Interpretations. Requests for interpretations

1.5 The requirements of this standard supersede

Please refer to ANSI/ASSE Z359.0, Definitions and

3.1 Single Anchor Lifeline Components.

3.1.1 Connectors integral to single anchor life-

3.1.2 Rope used in single anchor lifelines shall

3.1.3 When tested in accordance with reference

3.1.4 Rope used for single anchor lifelines shall

At the time of publication of this standard, webbing

3.1.8 Single anchor lifelines supplied with a factory

3.1.8.1 Spliced. Spliced eye terminations in rope

whipped or otherwise integrally finished to prevent

3.1.8.2 Stitched. Stitched eye terminations on rope

3.1.8.3 Swaged. Swaged eye terminations in rope

3.1.10 Ropes used as a single anchor lifeline in-

3.1.11 When tested in accordance with 4.2.3, fol-

3.1.12 Single anchor lifelines made from wire rope

3.1.12.1 A breaking strength not less than 6,000

pounds (26.7 kN) when tested in accordance with

3.1.12.2 A diameter not less than 0.3125 inch (8

3.1.12.3 A factory termination by means of one

3.2 Fall Arrester Components.

3.2.1 Connectors integral to fall arresters shall

3.2.2 Non-integral energy absorbers and energy

3.2.3.1 Be made from synthetic material having

3.2.3.2 Be terminated by either splice or stitched

3.2.3.3 Be tested in accordance with 4.3.2 and

3.2.3.4 Have integral connectors that meet the re-

3.2.3.5 Have a deployment indicator or warning

3.2.4 Fall arresters shall be automatic in their lock-

3.2.8 Integral rings or similar openings shall be de-

3.2.9 When tested in accordance with 4.3.2, fall

3.2.10 When tested in accordance with 4.2.2, at

3.2.12 When tested in accordance with 4.2.3, the

4. QUALIFICATION AND VERIFICATION TESTING

4.1 Test Equipment and Specimens.