Lifestyle

EU worker protection regulation underpins fall protection.

In Germany, DGUV rules govern the selection and use of personal protective equipment against falls from a height and outline the basic principles. DGUV rules do not apply to the use of mountain sports equipment. The selection and use of personal protective equipment for rescues are defined in DGUV Rules 112-199 “Rescues from heights and depths using personal fall protection equipment”. The selection and use of access and positioning methods with the aid of ropes are described in DGUV Information 212-001 “Working using rope access and positioning methods”.

Fall protection at workplaces is generally required whenever there is a risk of falling.

You can find detailed information on this and on when fall protection is not required on the subpage “When do you need fall protection?”

Portable systems that can be easily transported are particularly in demand for mobile height safety. Today, the tripod is usually the preferred method, as its design allows it to be set up in confined spaces. But how does a fall arrester/tripod work?

The tripod system is an increasingly popular choice for reliable height safety in confined spaces. It enables easy access to shafts and tanks of different sizes. For reliable height safety, the system is supplemented by a fall arrester with integrated rescue hoist, which is operated by a second person. The fall arrester with integrated rescue hoist is attached directly to the tripod and makes it easier for the person who has to climb into the tank or shaft to control their ascent and descent.

The tripod system offers many advantages in terms of handling and application options

Compared to other height safety solutions, the easy-to-use tripod system has the following advantages:

• Easy to transport thanks to its manageable weight and small pack size
• Can also be mounted on a small footprint
• Tool-free assembly
• The combination of the height safety device with an integrated rescue hoist covers an enormous range of heights
• Optimum control over ascent and descent
• Easy adjustment via hand crank
• Also suitable for lowering loads thanks to separate load winch on the tripod

The tremendous flexibility and ease of use of the tripod save companies’ resources without compromising on safety.

The tripod is normally used in combination with a fall arrester that meets the requirements of EN 360 and EN 1496. It is mounted using a special plate on the tripod base. The wire rope attached here is now guided over the tripod head. The pulley anti-jamming device, which enables the rope to be lowered safely, is positioned above the sewer or shaft in which workers or loads are to be lowered.

Possible uses of the fall arrester/tripod?
Although there are many possible applications, the question “When do I need a fall arrester/tripod?” is not totally clear. A tripod can be used in many areas. It has proven effective when working in sewers and shafts, but also offers the necessary safety in tanks. Here, it serves as an access and fall protection device, but is also used as a basis for any necessary rescue.

As a complete mobile system, the tripod can be used for securing and rescuing work and also for transporting loads. To do justice to all areas of application, it is important to have the right structure and the right equipment. But what is important when it comes to tripods and what should you pay particular attention to when buying one?

The tripod design offers considerable advantages in terms of handling and use. This means it can be folded up and easily transported. Although it can withstand enormous loads, its dead weight is low. When choosing a good tripod, it is particularly important to pay attention to the following features:

• High load capacity of several hundred kilograms
• Valid TÜV certification
• Certification according to standard EN 795 and specification TS 16415
• Compact transport dimensions
• Quick and uncomplicated installation.
  The tripod for height safety is available as a stand-alone device or as a practical kit. Kits offer the advantage that the mounting plate and the height safety device with integrated rescue hoist required for securing are usually already included in the package.

Check that the tripod equipment is appropriate for its intended use

The tripod for height safety is available in two basic designs. Firstly, there is the fixed tripod, which can be placed on a range of different surfaces. And secondly, there is the mobile version, which is on castors. The advantage of this variant is mobility. This means that the position of the tripod can be easily adjusted for work or load transportation, even in the event of a rescue! With a load capacity of up to 500 kilograms, the portable system is also suitable for a wide range of applications. Here too, however, it is important to have a low dead weight despite the substructure, as this is the only way to ensure flexible repositioning. The portable tripods offer considerable handling advantages, especially when working in long shafts and sewers.

Both designs feature the same functionality

Regardless of whether you choose a portable or fixed tripod for height safety, the general functionality is the same for both models. You are asking yourself: How does a fall arrester/tripod work? For smooth height safety, the tripod is mounted on a bracket so that the safety rope can be lowered and pulled up and down in a controlled manner. Both versions feature tool-free assembly and disassembly of the tripod and the fall arrester with integrated rescue hoist.

The tripod promises reliable and easy-to-use height safety for sewer and shaft work as well as for use in tanks. Its design features means it can hold its own against other systems. But what advantages does a tripod/fall arrester really offer in the field? We have compiled the most important answers for you.

Available in both fixed and portable versions, the tripod is used in conjunction with a fall arrester with integrated rescue hoist and a heavy-duty load winch. The combination of these systems provides considerable handling advantages:

• Good control during descent and ascent
• Easy handling
• Secure footing on various surfaces
• Load of up to 500 kilograms
• Can be easily transported
• Tool-free assembly and disassembly
• Can be used flexibly anywhere
• Reduced tripping hazards
• Can be used to rescue people who have had an accident.

The tripod/fall arrester can be used for more than just securing people who have to work in tanks or shafts. It is also suitable for transporting loads of different weights. A significant advantage of this use is that loads can be positioned with minimal effort so they can be positioned and secured with precision.

Quick assembly and easy handling ensure flexible use of the tripod

The advantages of the tripod show which functions are important for fall protection. A tripod/fall arrester offers maximum flexibility. It is usually offered as a complete kit with all the components required for use. The fixed model can be set up on various surfaces. All components can be mounted easily and securely in combination with the mounting plate.

The portable tripod is also characterised by its simple and convenient handling. Here, the fall arrester is mounted onto a mobile frame. The combination with wheels ensures that the position can also be easily changed during a rescue operation.

What are important features of a tripod to ensure reliable height safety?

To ensure reliable fall protection, the tripod must be TÜV-certified and meet basic handling and safety requirements. But what is important when buying a tripod and how can you recognise a good and reliable design? As with other height safety systems, it is important to find the right combination of stable construction and easy handling. Moreover, all components used must work together and withstand high loads.