The Definition of Lifeline

Definition of Lifeline

A lifeline is a flexible line, usually a synthetic rope or steel cable, that is anchored at one or both ends and that a worker connects to as part of a personal fall arrest system. The worker's harness is attached to the lifeline through a lanyard, rope grab or self-retracting device, so that if the worker falls, the lifeline transfers the fall forces to a secure anchorage.

Lifelines let workers move along an edge, roof, beam or vertical structure while staying connected. They are widely used in construction, steel erection, roofing, bridge work, telecommunications, maintenance on tanks and vessels, and loading of trucks and rail cars.

In the United States, OSHA sets requirements for lifelines in 29 CFR 1926.502(d) for construction and 29 CFR 1910.140 for general industry. These rules cover lifeline strength, protection from cuts and abrasion, and the requirement that horizontal lifelines be designed, installed and used under the supervision of a qualified person.

Types of Lifelines

Vertical lifelines

A vertical lifeline hangs from an overhead anchorage. The worker connects using a rope grab or fall arrester that slides up and down the line and locks if the worker falls. Vertical lifelines are used on ladders, towers, scaffolds and when working on the face of a structure. OSHA generally requires that each worker have their own vertical lifeline.

Horizontal lifelines

A horizontal lifeline is stretched between two or more anchorages, allowing a worker to move along a roof edge, beam or walkway while connected. Horizontal lifelines can be permanent, such as rail or cable systems on rooftops, or temporary systems installed for a specific job. Because a horizontal line sags and stretches when it arrests a fall, the forces on the anchors can be much higher than the force on the worker, so careful engineering is required.

Self-retracting lifelines

A self-retracting lifeline (SRL) is a device with a line wound on a spring-loaded drum. The line extends and retracts as the worker moves and locks quickly in a fall, similar to a car seat belt. SRLs can reduce free fall distance and are often used in place of a standard lanyard.

Using Lifelines Safely

• Anchorage strength: anchors must meet required strength ratings, such as 5,000 pounds per worker or a system designed by a qualified person with a safety factor of at least two.
• Fall clearance: calculate total fall distance, including free fall, deceleration, line stretch, sag and the worker's height, to make sure the worker will not strike a lower level.
• Protection: protect lines from sharp edges, heat, chemicals and abrasion.
• Inspection: inspect lifelines and connectors before each use, and remove any line that has arrested a fall or shows damage.
• Compatibility: use connectors and devices that are compatible with the line type and diameter.
• Rescue planning: have a plan to rescue a fallen worker quickly to reduce the risk of suspension trauma.
• Training: workers must be trained by a competent person to use, inspect and maintain their equipment.

Lifelines are one part of a broader fall protection program. Where possible, eliminating the hazard or using guardrail systems should be considered first under the hierarchy of controls.

Example of Lifeline

A roofing crew was replacing the membrane on a large flat warehouse roof with no parapet. The project's qualified person designed a temporary horizontal lifeline system along the roof edge, using engineered anchors attached to the roof structure. The design accounted for line sag and confirmed there was enough clearance below for two workers on the line at once.

Each roofer wore a full-body harness connected to the lifeline with a self-retracting device. During the job, a worker tripped near the edge and his device locked before he went over. Afterward, the crew removed his device from service, inspected the lifeline and anchors, and reviewed the event at the next morning's toolbox talk.

Frequently Asked Questions: Lifeline

What is the difference between a lifeline and a lanyard?

A lanyard is a short connector between the harness and an anchor or lifeline. A lifeline is a longer line anchored at one or both ends that the worker connects to and can move along.

Who can design a horizontal lifeline?

OSHA requires horizontal lifelines to be designed, installed and used under the supervision of a qualified person, typically an engineer or specialist with fall protection expertise.

Can two workers share one lifeline?

Vertical lifelines are generally limited to one worker. Horizontal lifelines can be designed for more than one worker, but only if the system has been engineered for that number of users.

How often should lifelines be inspected?

Lifelines should be inspected by the user before each use and periodically by a competent person. Any lifeline that has arrested a fall should be removed from service.