MIL-HDBK-1025/10
7.7.3.3 Fall Arresting System Provisions. Positive systems all have in common an
anchor point independent of the support method, a harness to hold the worker, and a connecting
device between the anchor point and the harness.
a. Harnesses should only be used for the personal protective purpose for which they are
designed. Their misuse could result in serious injury or death. In addition to fall-arrest harnesses,
there are fall-arrest/positioning, fall-arrest/suspension, fall-arrest/retrieval, and
retrieval/positioning harnesses.
b. The use of a harness over a belt is because of its impact limits. A belt provides only
increased for impact forces up to 400 kilograms (900 pounds) while a harness has a higher force
level of up to 800 kilograms (1,800 pounds). All items of the complete fall arrest system should
be taken into account, not just the harness.
c. Manufacturer's instructions in regard to height and weight should be followed for sizing
of the harnesses and their connecting devices and for inspection and maintenance of the complete
systems. All equipment should be taken out of service and inspected for damage after being
subjected to a fall impact.
7.7.3.4 Climbers' Tools. Workers authorized to climb should have a complete set of
approved tools. The number of tools carried in tool belts should be kept to a minimum.
Pole Climbing and Work Precautions. Only after determination of the pole's
7.8
safety, collection of necessary climbing equipment and work tools, and assurance that the line is
de-energized and grounded, or that hot-line work is authorized to be carried out, can the worker
start climbing.
CAUTION
Protect hands and arms by wearing gloves and long sleeve shirts.
7.8.1 More Than One Climber. If more than one worker needs to work on the pole
at the same time, the first worker should reach working position before the next worker leaves the
ground. Ordinarily, no worker is to work directly under another worker on the same pole, except
in emergencies. When this condition is necessary, take extreme care to prevent tools or other
objects from being dropped on the worker below.
Wood-Pole Climbing Precautions. Always proceed as follows
7.8.2
a. Seat the gaffs securely. Be especially vigilant when the pole is ice or sleet covered.
86
Previous Page
