New Line of Leading Edge Self-Retracting Lifelines

Malta Dynamics introduces its Edgehog Leading Edge Self-Retracting Lifelines. According to the manufacturer, the Edgehog line meets ANSI standard Z359.14-2014 for a worker capacity range of 130-310 lbs. Boasting a compact and lightweight design, the Class A Edgehog Leading Edge Self-Retracting Lifelines feature durable housing, a quick-action braking system, an integral shock absorber and a swivel top connection point.

“A leading edge self-retracting lifeline can be critical,” Malta Dynamics President Chris Holland said. “If a worker goes over an edge, as the self-retracting lifeline contacts the edge and comes over, there is a potential the cable could break if it’s not specifically designed for leading edge use.”

 “A condition we see very common with a lot of our customers is what we call foot level tie off,” Holland continued. “This means the self-retracting lifeline’s directly attached to the deck, often because there is no overhead anchorage available. If you were to go over the edge and fall, the leading edge self-retracting lifeline is designed exactly for this scenario.”

The Malta Dynamics Edgehog units contain shock packs on the end. When the cable becomes isolated over an edge during a fall, the shock pack engages to reduce arresting forces. This puts less force on the worker who has fallen and also doesn’t damage the cable.

According to Malta Dynamics Fall Protection Engineer David Ivey, the presence of a shock pack alone does not make a self-retracting lifeline a leading edge unit. For a self-retracting lifeline to be used in a leading edge situation, it must be tested and marked by the manufacturer for leading edge use.

The two new Edgehog product lines include standard style self-retracting lifelines as well as personal units. The standard units feature a convenient carry handle while the personal units have built in back padding.

“Our personal Edgehogs actually attach to the back of your harness,” Holland said. “In the case of a fall the shock pack is actually built into the padding. All day long while you’re wearing it, this is padding your back but in the case of a fall it works as the shock pack.”

Dual personal units are also available for work sites where mobility is important. “Dual units provide optimum safety when transitioning from one anchor point to another,” Ivey said. “They allow for 100 percent tie-off without compromising on mobility.”

For more information, visit www.maltadynamics.com.