System Connection and Harness Integration
The 3M Protecta FIRST Twin Leg Shock Absorbing Rope Lanyard (Model 1390235, 3M ID 7100174076) functions as a connecting subsystem within a complete personal fall arrest system. Prior to connection, verify that the harness utilized is a compatible 3M or PROTECTA fall arrest full-body harness equipped with a designated dorsal (back) fall arrest D-ring compliant with EN 361 standards.
To install the lanyard onto the harness, connect the connector located at the tear-pack energy absorber end directly to the dorsal D-ring of the full-body harness. Ensure that the connector gate closes fully and the automatic locking mechanism engages completely. Never attach the shock absorber pack end to hip, side, or work-positioning D-rings, and never attach both legs to the harness simultaneously.
Anchorage Coupling and 100% Tie-Off Protocol
The 1390235 model features a twin-leg (double-leg / forked) configuration constructed from 12 mm polyamide twisted rope with an overall working length of 2 meters. This design enables continuous 100% tie-off when navigating structural frameworks, scaffold structures, and industrial assets such as wind energy installations.
- Primary Anchorage Connection: Connect the first scaffold hook to a compatible, structural anchorage member or certified scaffold pipe overhead or at waist level. Verify that the scaffold hook gate snaps completely shut and locks automatically.
- Transitioning Between Anchors: When moving across a structure, attach the second scaffold hook to the next structural anchor point before disconnecting the first scaffold hook. Maintain at least one scaffold hook securely anchored to the structure at all times.
- Stowage of Unused Leg: When only one leg is tied off to an anchor point, never connect the free scaffold hook to non-breakaway structural points or work-positioning loops on the harness, as this can impede the proper deployment of the energy-absorbing pack during a fall event.
Pre-Installation and Pre-Use Inspection Checklist
Before every work shift, competent safety personnel and riggers must conduct a comprehensive physical and visual inspection of the lanyard assembly:
- 12 mm Polyamide Twisted Rope: Inspect the full 2-meter twin-leg rope lengths for signs of fraying, cut strands, abrasions, thermal burns, or chemical degradation.
- Scaffold Hooks and Hardware: Check both scaffold hooks and the harness-end connector for mechanical deformation, cracks, gouges, or hardware corrosion. Confirm that gate mechanisms open smoothly and lock securely without binding.
- Integrated Energy Absorber Pack: Inspect the tear-pack energy absorber to confirm that the outer casing is secure and that no stitch rupture or partial tear deployment has occurred.
- Product Identification Labels: Verify that the covered identification labels remain intact, protected, and fully legible, documenting compliance with CE EN 355 and DOSH SIRIM standards. Note that this unit is not equipped with Connected Safety ID.
Immediate Removal from Service
The 3M Protecta FIRST 1390235 lanyard must be removed from service immediately and decommissioned if it has been subjected to the dynamic impact forces of a fall arrest, if the energy absorber stitching has deployed, or if the rope or metallic hardware fails any pre-use inspection parameter.
