Tower Access & Rescue Solutions

Accessing the inaccessible is a routine requirement for many of the professionals who use our products. This booklet has been created to share our knowledge on techniques related to the use of our products, to allow you to work safely and more efficiently in your daily activities as tower climbers.

Do you work on electrical or communication towers? This booklet is for you. From tower access to setting up a workstation, to rescue situations, this will provide you with useful techniques.

Warnings:

- You must have understood and retained the information from your products’ Instructions for Use

- Learning appropriate techniques and methods of protection is your own responsibility. The Petzl solutions provided here are given only as examples, and others may exist. The relevance of the technical solutions depends on the situation: you must always carry out your own risk analysis in the field

- Mastering the techniques presented here requires specific training and practice. Work with a specialized organization for all of your training activities.

CONTENTS

GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR WORK AT HEIGHT

The three main work situations and the regulatory framework of the associated equipment

The regulatory framework for personal protective equipment associated with various work situations depends on the current legislation in your country. Here we provide only some examples of product standards related to these uses.

• Restraint

A restraint system limits the work zone, keeping the worker from entering an area that may present a fall risk. This system is not designed to arrest a fall from height.

• Positioning

A work positioning system supports the user and allows them to be precisely positioned with the weight on their feet. This system is not designed to arrest a fall; the user must keep their body weight on the positioning system.

The work positioning system must be used together with a fall arrest system.

• Fall arrest

The fall arrest system is a belay system that is independent of the means of progression or work positioning.

The fall arrest system prevents the user from falling to the ground in the event of a fall. Its role is to arrest the fall while limiting the impact force experienced by the user. It must therefore be used with enough clearance to allow for a free fall.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR WORK AT HEIGHT

General information on falls

The risk of falling is a key concept to master when working at height. The severity of a fall depends on independent factors:

The weight of the user, including equipment:

The greater the weight, the more energy there is to be dissipated during the fall.

The length of the fall:

The longer the fall, the more energy to be dissipated during the fall. The risk of hitting an obstacle is also greater.

The position relative to the anchor: When the worker moves above their anchor, the severity of the potential fall increases. The fall factor concept is sometimes used to describe the worker’s position relative to the anchor and the severity of the fall.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR WORK AT HEIGHT

Clearance is the amount of clear space required below the user’s feet to avoid hitting an obstacle in a fall.

The amount of clearance is given in the Instructions for Use for each fall arrest device, such as the lanyard with energy absorber and mobile fall arrester.

Note that for a given product, the clearance depends on the user’s weight and on their position relative to the anchor.

Information: the risk of a pendulum is just as important to consider as the risk of hitting the ground or an obstacle. It is essential to consider clearance from a multi-directional perspective. During a fall, the worker can pendulum: there is a risk of their hitting the structure, and the lanyard can rub along a bar or platform edge.

TOWER ACCESS TECHNIQUES

Depending on the tower, ease of access can vary and require different techniques. For example, there may be a lifeline along a ladder, or access may be possible using energy-absorbing Y-lanyards. Absent another access route, the worker must use techniques similar to rock climbing in order to reach the top of the tower.

Ladder fall protection rail or cable grabs are connected to the harness sternal connection points for ease of use.

1. Presence of a lifeline or rail along a ladder

VOLT / VOLT WIND

TOWER ACCESS TECHNIQUES

2. Presence of an access route that can be taken using energy-absorbing Y-lanyards

Energy-absorbing lanyards can be used if there is a ladder or bars spaced close enough to allow easy progression.

Warning: Make sure the ladder rungs or bars have a strength capable of sustaining at least two times the maximum arresting force.

Lanyards with elasticized arms are especially suited to this technique. Be sure to select lanyard-end connectors suitable for the structure, for example MGO-type large-opening connectors that allow easy clipping of large-diameter bars.

Be sure to always keep a lanyard arm clipped to the structure, favoring connection points above the waist to reduce the fall height, in order to avoid striking the structure in the event of a fall.

When climbing with a dorsally connected Y-lanyards, make certain that the lanyard legs are kept over the user’s arms and shoulders.

Correct Use

Avoid connections that could result in cantilever loading of the lanyard-end connectors.

Technical tips

Technical tips

TOWER ACCESS TECHNIQUES

3. No other access route on the tower Access from below using techniques similar to rock climbing

This is the most complex situation; two climbing techniques are presented here. For both techniques, it’s preferable for the climber to tie in to the sternal point to avoid the risk of inversion in the event of a fall.

10 cm minimum

Technique 1: Belaying from the harness

I’D S (marketed since 2019) is especially suited to this technique for belaying from the harness

Beware of ground fall risk. For the first few meters of the climb, the intermediate anchor points must be sufficiently close together to prevent the climber from hitting the ground in the event of a fall. When there are obstacles below the climber, increase the number of intermediate anchor points to reduce the fall distance.

The belayer must be vigilant and anticipate the climber’s movements. Always hold the brake side of the rope.

If the rope path is too crooked, friction at the intermediate anchor points can limit the rope’s capacity to absorb the energy of a fall. Absent another solution, place pulleys at the most offset points.

Advantages of belaying from the harness:

• The belayer can move to respond to the climber’s movements

• In a fall, belayer displacement can reduce the impact force on the climber

Disadvantages of belaying from the harness:

• The belayer has limited freedom of movement, for example if they need to call for rescue

• If the climber falls, the belayer can be yanked around

• The stopping distance is longer than with a fixed point; the climber is more likely to hit an obstacle while falling

Technique 2: Belaying from a fixed point with the ASAP LOCK

The operator does not handle the ASAP LOCK: they ensure that the rope runs properly. The operator must not hold the rope between the ASAP LOCK and the climber. In the event of a fall, the climber is stopped by the ASAP LOCK, without operator intervention.

Beware of ground fall risk. For the first few meters of the climb, the intermediate anchor points must be sufficiently close together to prevent the climber from hitting the ground in the event of a fall. When there are obstacles below the climber, increase the number of intermediate anchor points to reduce the fall distance.

Warning: to be able to carry out a rescue operation if necessary, the total rope length must be at least twice the amount of rope that will be deployed during the work operation (see rescue techniques).

Advantages:

• The belayer is free to move around if they need to call for rescue

• In the event of a fall, the belayer doesn’t move and avoids the risk of hitting the structure

Disadvantages:

• The need to have twice the length of rope used for accessing the workstation, in case of rescue

TOWER ACCESS TECHNIQUES

4. Access via a fixed rope, installed by a coworker who has already reached the top of the tower

The coworker who climbed first, for example by using any of the previous techniques, installs the access rope for the other coworkers.

Example of installing the rope for a coworker.

The ASAP is installed on a safety rope and connected to attachment point A (fall arrest) of the harness. Its role is to arrest the fall; it should not be used for work positioning.

ANSI Z359.15 USAGE

ACCESSING AND SETTING UP THE WORKSTATION

5. Accessing and setting up the workstation

The worker generally uses energy-absorbing Y-lanyards to reach the workstation, e.g. for horizontal travel.

In addition, they may also use a GRILLON lanyard for a more comfortable setup.

Place the energy-absorbing lanyards sufficiently above your waist.

RESCUE TECHNIQUES

As with any site, it is necessary to have previously organized an evacuation plan and to have been trained in rescue techniques. There are multiple configurations and it is impossible to describe them all. Here we provide some examples of relatively simple rescue scenarios.

Rescue of a conscious person suspended on ABSORBICA lanyards after a fall: use of the JAG RESCUE KIT

To rescue the person, a coworker must set up a load transfer and evacuation system, for example based on the JAG SYSTEM. Once this system is attached to a suitable anchor, the difficulty is in accessing the victim.

The ideal situation is to be able to attach the evacuation system directly to the victim’s harness. The manual operations are easier, and setup is cleaner with less equipment. Direct connection to the harness also allows the victim to be raised more efficiently if an obstacle must be passed during evacuation.

3.

2.

TOWER

RESCUE TECHNIQUES

Rescuing a conscious person after a fall on a fixed-point belay system such as ASAP LOCK

Be sure to keep the brake rope in the directional carabiner.

1.

3.

2.

HELMETS AND ACCESSORIES

VERTEX

Comfortable helmet with six-point textile suspension

The VERTEX provides protection against falling objects, electrical hazards, molten metal splash, flames, and lateral deformation. Its webbing suspension provides optimal comfort.

VERTEX VENT

Comfortable ventilated helmet with six-point textile suspension

The VERTEX VENT provides protection against falling objects, molten metal splash, and lateral deformation. Its webbing suspension provides optimal comfort and has ventilation holes with sliding shutters to allow airflow through the helmet.

STRATO

Lightweight helmet with molded foam liner

The STRATO provides protection against falling objects, electrical hazards, molten metal splash, flames, and lateral deformation. It is lightweight thanks to a molded foam liner.

STRATO VENT

Lightweight ventilated helmet with molded foam liner

The STRATO VENT provides protection against falling objects and lateral deformation. It is lightweight thanks to a molded foam liner and has ventilation holes to allow airflow through the helmet.

adjustable headband allows the helmet to be perfectly centered on the head

provides a secure fit on the head and also folds into the shell for easy storage

adjust chinstrap strength to adapt to work at height or on the ground use

easily mount protective eye and face shields, headlamps, and more

CENTERFIT Adjustment

DUAL Chinstrap

FLIP&FIT System

Modular Accessories

VIZIR Eye shield

Transparent eye shield protects eyes from projectile hazards that is easy to install on Petzl helmets with the EASYCLIP attachment system. It also has scratch-resistant and anti-fog coatings.

VIZIR SHADOW Tinted eye shield

Tinted eye shield protects eyes from projectile hazards that is easy to install on Petzl helmets with the EASYCLIP attachment system. It also has scratch-resistant and anti-fog coatings.

VIZEN Face shield

Full-coverage shield offers face and eye protection against electric arc hazards while preserving peripheral vision. It is easy to install on Petzl helmets with the EASYCLIP attachment system and also has scratch-resistant and anti-fog coatings.

NAPE PROTECTOR High-visibility nape protector

The nape protector for VERTEX and STRATO helmets provides effective sun and rain protection for the nape of the neck. Fluorescent colors give the worker optimal visibility, night and day. Available in two colors.

NAMETAG HOLDER

The nametag holder for VERTEX and STRATO helmets allows quick identification of the worker. It is easy to install and provides effective rain protection for business cards.

HARNESSES AND ACCESSORIES

VOLT Fall arrest and work positioning harness

The VOLT harness is very quick to put on, thanks to the FAST LT PLUS buckles that allow it to be donned with both feet on the ground. The wide, semi-rigid waistbelt and leg loops provide excellent support. Its lightweight, breathable construction maximizes air flow. A stowing system for the MGO connectors on fall-arrest lanyards are located on each shoulder strap.

VOLT WIND

Fall arrest and work positioning harness for wind turbine use

The VOLT WIND harness includes the features of the VOLT harness with added protection for use in a wind turbine. It has wear protectors on the waistbelt and dorsal point to prevent strap wear and to provide optimal comfort when moving about inside the wind turbine tower.

AVAO BOD FAST

Fall arrest, work positioning, and suspension harness

The AVAO BOD FAST is designed for greater comfort in all situations. The DOUBLEBACK self-locking buckles at the rear of the harness, between the waistbelt and the leg loops, allow for a shorter adjustment when the dorsal attachment point is used. The harness has an integrated fall indicator on the dorsal attachment point and is fastened with a TRIACT-LOCK automatic locking carabiner.

ASTRO BOD FAST

Ultra-comfortable rope access harness

With an integrated CROLL L ventral rope clamp, the ASTRO BOD FAST harness is designed for greater efficiency and comfort during rope ascents. The gated ventral attachment point allows optimal integration of equipment, such as rope clamp or seat. A PODIUM seat can be attached to the axle of the attachment point so the load is supported directly by the descender, while providing mobility at the ventral attachment point.

Seat for VOLT Seat for VOLT harness for greater comfort during suspension

Wide seat for working comfortably during suspension that attaches to the designated slots on the VOLT with two quick links. When it’s not in use, it stows easily in the upper position.

Note: this seat is not compatible with VOLT WIND.

PODIUM

Seat for AVAO and ASTRO harnesses for greater comfort during suspension

The PODIUM provides optimal comfort during prolonged suspension. The wide sitting position offers excellent stability. Rigid sides prevent the webbing straps from cutting into the thighs. The easy-to-use seat has two equipment loops and a rear hook, making it easier to store in order to facilitate movement.

ABSORBICA-Y MGO Double lanyard with energy absorber and MGO connectors

The ABSORBICA-Y is a double lanyard with an integrated compact energy absorber, designed for progression on a vertical structure or a horizontal lifeline, and for passing intermediate anchors. It is available in 80 cm and 150 cm lengths. The 150 cm length has elasticized arms to avoid hindering progression.

ABSORBICA-Y TIE-BACK MGO

Double lanyard with energy absorber, intermediate tie-back rings, and MGO connectors

Including the features of the ABSORBICA-Y MGO, the ABSORBICA-Y TIE-BACK MGO includes the TIE-BACK system which allows the lanyard ends to be reconnected to fit around structures with a very large cross section. In a rescue situation, these rings are easily accessible for the rescuer, even when the person is suspended on the lanyard after a fall.

LANYARDS | WORK POSITIONING

GRILLON Adjustable lanyard for work positioning

The GRILLON adjustable lanyard is used to make work positioning systems, to complement a fall-arrest system. Its length can be very easily and precisely adjusted as necessary for comfortable positioning at the work station. Depending on the configuration, it can be used in single or double mode. It is available in seven lengths: 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15 and 20 m.

GRILLON PLUS Adjustable lanyard for work positioning with excellent abrasion resistance

The GRILLON PLUS lanyard includes the features of the GRILLON with an aramid fiber rope that provides excellent abrasion resistance. Depending on the configuration, it can be used in single or double mode. It is available in two lengths: 2 and 3 m.

GRILLON HOOK Adjustable work positioning lanyard with HOOK connector

The GRILLON HOOK adjustable lanyard is used to make work positioning systems, to complement a fall-arrest system. Its length can be very easily and precisely adjusted as necessary for comfortable positioning at the work station. Its HOOK connector is ideal for using the lanyard in double mode on the harness side attachment points. It is available in four lengths: 2, 3, 4 and 5 m.

GRILLON MGO Adjustable work positioning lanyard with MGO connector

The GRILLON MGO lanyard is used to make work positioning systems, to complement a fall-arrest system. Its length can be very easily and precisely adjusted as necessary for comfortable positioning at the work station. Connector with very large gate opening is ideal for connection to metal structures or to large-diameter cables and bars. GRILLON MGO is available in two lengths: 2 and 3 m.

LANYARDS | ACCESSORIES

EASHOOK OPEN

Connector with gated connection point for double lanyard and work positioning lanyard

The EASHOOK OPEN connector is designed for use at the ends of a double lanyard or work positioning lanyard. The gated connection point allows for direct attachment of the connector to the lanyards. If the lanyard is damaged, the connector can thus be reused. The excellent grip and automatic locking system facilitate handling when passing intermediate anchors.

MGO OPEN

Auto-locking directional connector with large gate opening and gated connection point

The MGO OPEN is an auto-locking directional connector with a large gate opening for connection to metal structures or to large-diameter cables and bars. It has a gated connection point for attachment to different types of lanyards. If the lanyard is damaged, the connector can thus be reused. It is available in two versions: 60 mm opening and 110 mm opening.

VERTICAL LIFELINE KITS

Petzl's pre-assembled vertical lifeline kits are certified to meet the ANSI Z359.15 standard* and designed to keep those that work-at-height safe. In case of a slip or fall, the ASAP or ASAP LOCK mobile fall arrester locks onto the RAY rope arresting the user and stopping the fall. In normal use, the device moves freely along the rope without any manual intervention and follows the user’s movement. The ASAP’SORBER provides energy absorption, and limits impact forces accordingly to the user’s weight and fall distance.

*RAY is sold separately and is required to work in compliance with ANSI Z359.15

RAY 11 MM Static rope with sewn termination

The RAY 11 mm static rope with sewn termination is designed for use with an ASAP or ASAP LOCK mobile fall arrester. It has low stretch when put under tension, allowing it to meet the requirements of the ANSI Z359.15 fall protection standard. The standard diameter ensures a good grip for easier handling. It is available in five lengths: 25, 50, 75, 100 and 200 ft.

ASAP

Mobile fall arrester

With its unique locking system, the ASAP sets the standard in fall protection for workers at height. In normal use, the device moves freely along the rope without any manual intervention and follows the user in all their movements. In the event of a shock load or sudden acceleration, the ASAP locks on the rope and stops the user.

ASAP LOCK

Mobile fall arrester with locking function

The ASAP LOCK includes the features of the ASAP with an integrated locking function, allowing the user to immobilize the device in order to reduce the potential fall distance. The connection arm makes the system dropresistant when passing intermediate anchors.

ASAP’SORBER

Energy absorber for ASAP or ASAP LOCK

The ASAP’SORBER allows user to work at a distance from the rope, in order to protect it during certain work phases. Equipped with tear-webbing inside a pouch that opens on each end, the absorber is protected from abrasion, while allowing for regular inspection. A 20 cm, 40 cm, and AXESS (for rescue situations) version are available to provide the best balance between distance from the rope and reduced fall length.

BM’D AND CAPTIV

High-strength carabiner with positioning bar

DESCENDERS

I’D S

Self-braking descender with anti-panic function for work at height and rope access work

The I’D S is primarily designed for work at height and rope access work. It has an ergonomic handle that allows comfortable descent control. The integrated anti-panic function and anti-error catch limit the risk of an accident due to user error. The AUTO-LOCK system allows users to easily position themselves at a workstation without having to manipulate the handle or tie off the device. Once locked, the rope can be taken up without having to manipulate the handle. The safety gate allows the rope to be installed with the device remaining connected to the harness. The I’D S is compatible with 10 to 11.5 mm ropes and allows handling of loads up to 250 kg.

I’D L

Self-braking descender with anti-panic function for rescue

The I’D L self-braking descender is primarily designed for rescue. It has an ergonomic handle that allows comfortable descent control. The integrated anti-panic function and anti-error catch limit the risk of an accident due to user error. The AUTO-LOCK system allows users to position themselves without having to manipulate the handle or tie off the device. Once locked, the rope can be taken up without having to manipulate the handle. The safety gate allows the rope to be installed with the device remaining connected to the harness. The I’D L is compatible with 12.5 to 13 mm ropes and allows handling of loads up to 280 kg.

MAESTRO

Descender with integrated progress-capture pulley

The MAESTRO is a descender designed for technical rescue operations. It facilitates manipulation of heavy loads, for lowering or hauling, and may be used in both the primary system or in a back-up belay. This versatility allows rescuers to adapt to any situation they may encounter on the rescue scene. The integrated progress-capture pulley has a large diameter sheave mounted on sealed ball bearings, ensuring excellent hauling efficiency. The AUTO-LOCK system automatically locks the rope when the handle is not in use. Once locked, the rope can be taken up without having to manipulate the handle. The MAESTRO S is compatible with 10.5 to 11 mm ropes and allows handling of loads up to 250 kg. The MAESTRO L is compatible with 12.5 to 13 mm ropes and allows handling of loads up to 280 kg.

ROPE CLAMPS & PULLEYS ASCENSION

Handled rope clamp for rope ascents

The ASCENSION handled rope clamp is designed for rope ascents and features an overmolded grip and ergonomic upper part for a comfortable and powerful grip when pulling with one or two hands. Its toothed cam with self-cleaning slot optimizes performance under any conditions. It is available in left or right-handed versions and is compatible with 8 to 13 mm ropes.

RESCUCENDER

Openable cam-loaded rope clamp

Simple to use and ergonomic, the RESCUCENDER is an openable cam-loaded rope clamp designed for use in haul systems as a tractor or progress capture device. It is compatible with 9 to 13 mm ropes.

TIBLOC

Emergency rope clamp

Extremely compact and lightweight, the TIBLOC is an emergency rope clamp for ascending ropes or setting up hauling systems. It is easy to use with a locking carabiner for ascending ropes or for setting up hauling systems (progress capture) and is compatible with 8 to 11 mm ropes.

ROLLCLIP A TL

Pulley-carabiner

The ROLLCLIP A is a pulley-carabiner with a gate opening on the pulley side that facilitates installation of the rope when the pulley is fixed to the anchor. It also features an automatic TRIACT-LOCK locking system.

ROLLCLIP Z TL

Pulley-carabiner

The ROLLCLIP Z is a pulley-carabiner with a gate opening on the non-pulley side to facilitate installation on anchors and devices. It also features an automatic TRIACT-LOCK locking system.

ANCHORS

CONNEXION FIXE Anchor strap

The CONNEXION FIXE is a durable anchor strap with two forged steel attachment points. It offers several configurations for setting up an anchorage directly on an anchor or around a suitable structure. It is available in three lengths: 100, 150 and 200 cm.

CONNEXION VARIO Adjustable anchor strap

The CONNEXION VARIO is a durable and adjustable anchor strap equipped with two forged steel attachment points. It offers several configurations for setting up an anchorage directly on an anchor or around a suitable structure. The strap length is adjustable, thanks to an adjustment buckle. A system keeps the remaining webbing stowed. It is available in two lengths: 30-200 cm and 200-400 cm.

WIRE STROP Anchor strap made of galvanized steel

The WIRE STROP is an anchor strap made of 6.5 mm diameter galvanized steel with two terminations of different sizes. It offers several configurations for setting up an anchor: directly to an anchor point or around a suitable structure. The plastic sleeve keeps the connector in position and facilitates clipping. It is available in five lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200 and 300 cm.

RESCUE KIT

JAG RESCUE KIT Ready-to-use rescue kit

The JAG RESCUE KIT is a ready-to-use rescue kit designed to easily pick off and lower a victim. Its 4:1 mechanical advantage and excellent pulley efficiency allow the user’s effort to be multiplied by 4 when raising a victim. The I’D EVAC descender’s handle is specially designed to easily lower a victim and has an anti-panic function that activates if the user pulls too hard on the handle. This brakes and stops the descent automatically.

It contains a JAG SYSTEM haul kit, a RING OPEN gated ring, an I’D EVAC descender with integrated brake, a CONNEXION FIXE 150 cm anchor strap, a BUCKET bag and an AXIS 11 mm rope with two sewn terminations.

CONTACTS Contacts

Northwest, West Coast, Western Canada

Matt

Scott Polk N. CA spolk@altagroupinc.com

Greg Kaiser (MIL/TAC/LE) CA, HI greg@globalcontacts.biz

Dave Haavik WA dhaavik@altagroupinc.com

Dave Allan AK, NW. WA,

Greg Houston S. CA, HI ghouston@altagroupinc.com

Dave

Scott Backes scott@atheight.net

Mariane Rockefeller Pro2@petzl.com 801-926-1526

Division Sales Reps

Wyatt Edwards Pro3@petzl.com 801-926-1549

Eastern Canada

MB, ON, QC, NB, NS, PEI, NL

Neve Enterprises | P: 905-866-8449 Ontario, Canada

Ian Neve MB, W. ON ineve4petzl@gmail.com 905-866-8449

Michel Tremblay E. QC, N. NB mtremblay4petzl@gmail.com 418-693-2363

mpilotte4petzl@icloud.com 514-266-7156

Jasmin Neve NL, NS, PEI, S. NB jneve4petzl@gmail.com 905-965-3127

Mariane Rockefeller Pro1@petzl.com 801-926-1526

Petzl America 2929 Decker Lake Dr. Salt Lake City, UT 84119 professionalsales@petzl.com 801-926-1500

After Sales & Service Warranty and Returns returns@petzl.com 877-807-3805

Nick Beurskens nickb@petzl.com 801-926-1517

Maurice Pilotte W. QC, E. ON

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FOR MORE INFORMATION...

The information contained in this brochure is non-exhaustive. See the Instructions for Use for the products, and their related technical advice. Training is essential. You are responsible for your own actions, decisions and safety.

© Petzl / 01/2023