6 changes to personal energy absorbers and lanyards CSA standards
On February 1, 2020 new CSA standards were introduced for personal energy absorbers and lanyards.
These are revisions to the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Z259.11-17 standard for energy absorbers and lanyards.
What's changing?
- New performance requirements for energy absorbing lanyards
- Requires testing and certification of all energy absorbing lanyards (all manufacturers)
- E4 and E6 weight classifications have been eliminated
- New user weight ranges will be indicated by the manufacture
- New product labels and user instructions
- Label will display weight range, maximum free fall distance, maximum deployment and deployment factor
There is no changes to positioning and restraint lanyards.
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E4 and E6 weight classification eliminated:
The E4/E6 system lead to a lot of confusion because the weight classification appeared secondary.
Under the E4/E6 system:
- E4: 100lbs to 254lbs
- E6: 200 lbs to 286lbs
Examples under the new system:
- Standard: 120lbs to 310lbs
- Heavyweight: 190lbs to 420lbs
Weight ranges under the new system will be defined by the manufacturer. The new system removes the rigidity of the E4/E6 system and enables manufacturers to have greater flexibility when manufacturing products.
Updates to instructions for use:
Now the product label must include a warning that instructs the user to read the instructions before using the energy absorber.
The instructions must now:
- State the maximum free fall distance.
- The maximum deployment.
- The maximum deployment factor adjusted to the nearest 0.1.
- Range of allowed masses, which is the weight of the worker with their equipment.
When do these changes come into effect?
These changes came into effect February 1, 2020. All new products from leading manufacturers like 3M, Honeywell and MSA will now feature these updates in the user instruction and on the product labeling.
The changes to this standard also means that some products will be discontinued as new products are released. We will do our best to convey this information to customers and work with you to find another option if your preferred model number is discontinued.
Does the new standard change lanyard servicing frequency?
No, you should still visually inspect your lanyard every time you use it. A more thorough inspection by a trained and competent person is required at least once a year by manufacturers and CSA standards.
We can inspect and service your lanyard (we can also clean it).