FALLSOFT® Safety Equipment
For use in Confined Space Retrieval/Entry Applications

Fallsoft® has it all

Lightweight, and easy to use & portable
Fallsoft® incorporates the very latest in design by having a built-in shock absorber as an integral part of the vertical anchorage connector thus reducing the maximum arrest force applied to the body in the case of a fall to a maximum of 900 lbs.

Portable Systems



GM284A Portable Base with GM200A Vertical Post and GM193 adjustable boom assembly for single winch mount.



GM284A
Portable base with GM200A vertical post, GM193 adjustable boom & GM198 rear mount assemble for double winch mount.



When open the GM284A Base is capable of surrounding a 4 ft. diameter tank.

 

The Fallsoft® Retrieval System is easy to transport. The GM284A base folds up and may be toted as above with the GM193 boom kit over the shoulder and the GM200A vertical post in hand. Total weight of the complete 3 pieces is 98 lbs. (44 kg).


GM200A Description
General Specifications
Application Restrictions
• 3 person swivel tie-off
provision at top of vertical post.

• Vertical post has built-in shock absorbing qualities.

• Tie-off height is 75” (1.9m) from walking surface.

• Locks into anchor base plates with 2 locking pins.

• Lightweight.

• User Friendly.

• c/w carry handle.

• Vertical structure does not rotate when used.

• May be converted to a 16”/30” (40.8 cm/ 76.5 cm) reach davit arm by adding GM193 boom kit.

• Maximum working load 350 lbs. (158.9 kg.) per person.

• Maximum M.A.F. rating of retractables or tear-out shock absorbers 900 lbs. (4kN).

• Tested to static load pull of 3600 lbs. (16.2kN) at 45 degrees.

• Weight 26 lbs. (11.7 kg).

• Rotation of 3 person tie off plate: 360 degrees.

• General construction: extruded aluminum.

• Tubular components: 6061-T6 Aluminum.

• Tie-Off: zinc plated.

• Hardware: grade 5 steel zinc plated.

• Finish: natural aluminum or powder coated safety yellow.

• Inspect structure for structural defects prior to use.

• Use with GM type anchor bases.

• Personnel must be connected with a shock absorbing lanyard or self-retracting lifeline with a maximum arrest force not exceeding 900 lbs. (4 kN).

• Personnel must use a full body harness.

• Support structure must withstand applied loads.

     
GM193 Description
General Specifications
Application Restrictions
• 4 variable offset positions 16” (408mm), 20” (510mm), 25” (637mm), 30” (765mm).

• 2nd fixed connection points a minimum of 70” (1.78m) from walking surface.

• 1 fixed bracket connection for connection of RSRL or winch.

• 2 RSRL/winch mount available
with the use of a GM 198 Boom Kit.

• capable of 360 degree rotation around the vertical anchor post.

• Quick and easy to install .

• Maximum working load of 350 lbs. (157 kg) per person.

• Rated for fall arrest load of 2 users – maximum M.A.F. rating of retractables or tear-out Shock absorbers 900 lbs. (4kN) per person.

• Weight 18lbs. (8.1 kg).

• Constructed of 6061-T6 aluminum.

• Tie off plates: zinc plated steel

• Finish:natural aluminum or powder coated safety yellow.

• To be used with approved applicable retrieval winch or SRL.

• Personnel must use a full body harness.

CONFINED SPACE RETRIEVAL EQUIPMENT
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS




The full line of Fallsoft® equipment will be shipped in padded canvas bags as illustrated. Bags must be ordered as a separate item when placing an order.

These instructions will cover the following components:

• GM284A Portable Base
• GM200A 75” Tall Vertical Post
• GM193 Boom Kit
• GM907F Man-rated Winch
• GM901F Man-rated Winch
• GM198 Winch Rear Mount Assembly
• GM135 Permanent Base Weld Down
• GM138 Permanent Base Weld/Bolt Down

Inspection

Prior to each use, the following inspection must be performed:

• Visually scan the structure to ensure there is no cracking, fatigue or gouges.

• Check all ball pins and tightening bolts to ensure proper operation.

NOTE: In the event any of the above checks are unsatisfactory, the unit must be removed from service and the deficiency corrected.

Operation

• Before moving entrant over the opening, pre-test the system as outlined.

• Rated working capacity: 350 lbs. (159 kg)

• Proof load: 3600 lbs (16.2 kN)

WARNING: Failure to comply with assembly and operating instructions could cause serious injury or death.

Maintenance

Store in clean, dry environment.

GM284A Portable Base
• Remove from storage bag.

• Note the set of wheels on one end of the folded base which enable the user to pick up the opposite end and roll the base easily to intended location.

• Opening the legs of the base involves the following steps:

Turn tension leg screws counter-clockwise to loosen.
Unlock spring lock on front left-hand side of base by pulling back on pin and moving the front leg away from the lock.







Open front and rear legs to maximum leg spread and turn tension leg screws clockwise to tighten









The base at this point will move about on its wheels. To fix the base in place, turn the leveling screws on the end of each leg until the base is no longer on the wheels. Check level provided while adjusting legs.

CAUTION: Do not perform entry with wheels engaged to surface.

To move base from one location to another, reverse screws and engage wheels if surface permits and roll to alternate location. Upon completion of entry, retract leveling screws to place base back on its wheels, release tension screws and fold base together. Tighten tension screws.

GM200A Vertical Post
• Remove from storage bag.

• Position base of post into receiver in centre of portable base.


• Remove pins from their keeper and insert into receiver.








• Note the shock absorber indicator on the side of the GM200A. Maximum arrest force on a fall is limited to 900 lbs. and under
The GM200A is now ready to accept the GM198 boom assembly
GM193 Boom Kit
• Remove from storage bag.

• If received with the boom disassembled, assemble as shown with bolt and locking knob.

• Lift the retainer pin at bottom of the boom assembly so that the base will hug the post when positioned.

• Stack tie off rings on top of GM200A post onto each other and position them to back of post.

• Lift the boom assembly and lock it into position by inserting it onto the mushroom pin at top of GM200A post. Pull down to lock.

• Place bottom locking pin back in place

• The boom reach may be adjusted to a 16”, 20”, 25” or 30” reach by removing the pin on the vertical section and using the cord at the bottom to raise or lower the boom to desired position.

• The locking pin is then re-inserted into correct position hole.

GM907DF Winch
• Remove from storage bag.

• Position on receiver pins on bottom front of the GM193 boom.

• Insert locking pin in top of bracket to lock winch into position.

• Pull out sufficient amount of cable to enable the cable to be threaded over the pulley on the boom.

• Remove the keeper pin on nose of boom and reposition it back after cable is on the nose pulley.

GM900 Personnel Winch - General
• The GM900 Personnel Winch is designated to be used as primary work for lowering and raising of personnel when there is no ladder or other means of entry into a confined space. It must be noted, when raising and lowering personnel with mechanical devices such as Personnel Winch and no ladder is available, OSHA requires the use of back-up fall protection such as two- or three-way self-retracting lifelines. The Personnel Winch (GM900) can however, be used for retrieval should an emergency occur. If there is a ladder in the confined space entry, then the ladder becomes the primary entry tool and the GM900 becomes the secondary line for fall arrest and retrieval.

• The GM900 has a primary brake which holds the load in place when raising and lowering is stopped or when the winch crank handle is released. In addition the winch has a secondary brake system. In the event the winch would freewheel, an inertia brake system is automatically activated and restricts the cable payout to a maximum of 2 feet.

• GM900 is furnished with a cable tensioner. The cable tensioner helps keep the cable even and level on the drum to reduce stress and wear.

• If, for any reason, the injured worker becomes wedged during retrieval, the rescuer simply reverses the cranking direction of the personnel winch counter-clockwise, repositions the injured worker by movement of the cable, then continues on with the rescue/recovery.

WARNING: An independent fall-arrest unit MUST be used with this unit if a ladder is not available.

Installation Procedures

• All individuals that may be required to rescue or retrieve another person with this device MUST be instructed on how to use the system correctly. They MUST also read, understand and follow all instructions and warnings contained in these instructions and any warnings or instructions attached to the products before each use.

• Inspect vicinity around work area for debris and other material that could cause injuries or interfere with the operation of the system. Be sure that the anchor structure is positioned on a hard, stable surface before use. Also, caution should be taken to insure that all equipment will be clear of any electrical hazard and that proper ventilation has been provided in the work area before the worker descends into the space.

• Attach the personnel winch to the anchor structure making certain the locking pin is fully pushed in. Release and pull cable out from the unit to extend up over the pulley at the top of the structure.

• Inspect system using procedures explained in the following section.

Inspection Procedures

• Check the cable to insure it moves freely and retracts correctly. Check for cuts, kinks, broken strands, excessive wear, foreign substances or other damage. The cable should be checked regularly for signs of wear. A competent person must schedule regular safety inspections based on amount of use and working conditions.

• Test the locking action (suspension) capability of the personnel winch by cranking out (turn handle in a counter-clockwise direction) approximately 4 feet of cable from unit, then turn handle in a clockwise direction until two clicks are heard. The cable should now be locked into position until the handle is turned again. The locking action of the unit is for use as a suspension device only.

CAUTION: Gloves should be worn when inspecting or handling cable.

• Inspect the snap hook and connecting hardware to be sure they are not distorted or cracked. Be certain the hook keepers are free of burrs, functioning properly, clean and are not bent.

• Remove from service immediately if any system function, component or part does not pass inspection, or whenever subjected to a severe free fall, and return entire device to Winsafe Corp. at One Valleywood Drive, Unit 1, Markham, Ontario L3R 5L9, Telephone 1-888-954-0009 for inspection, repair and re-certification.

Operating Procedures

• Attach the entrant to the swivel snap hook assembly at the end of the cable using the top suspension D-Ring of a boson’s chair or the rear D-Ring of an OSHA approved fall arrest harness and begin a descent into the space. Always visually check that: a) locking snap hook freely engages the D-Ring; b) keeper is completely closed with each use. Never rely solely on the feel or sound of a snap hook engaging.

• To lower personnel, locate handle of unit and turn in a counter-clockwise direction. After lowering to desired depth, turn handle clockwise until two clicks are heard.

• To raise load, turn handle in a clockwise direction. The ratchet action will make a clicking sound.

WARNING: An independent fall arrest system (unit) MUST BE used with this unit if a ladder is not being used as the primary means of entry.

WARNING: Attach the locking snap hook on the fall arrest unit onto the rear fall arrest D-Ring of the harness meeting government standards for the intended use.

Storage and Maintenance

A written log of all servicing and inspection dates for this device should be maintained by the company safety officer.

• Always store unit in an area free of corrosive elements and excessive heat.

• DO NOT leave this unit for extended periods of time in an environment where corrosion may take place such as sewage and fertilizer plants. Additionally, avoid use in areas that contain high concentrations of ammonia. When used near salt water or moist environments, more frequent inspections may be necessary to monitor potential corrosive damage. Avoid use with acids, alkaloids or other caustic chemicals especially at elevated temperatures.

• Clean exterior of case and cable with water and mild soap detergent, rinse and thoroughly air dry. DO NOT use harsh chemicals. Clean labels as required.

• Never attempt to lubricate, adjust or modify any part or component of this unit.

• Repair and re-certification MUST BE performed by Fallsoft® Safety Equipment depending on the unit’s use and operating conditions, or whenever subjected to a severe free fall.

WARNINGS:

• Read, understand and follow all instructions and warnings, attached to and/or packed with this unit before each use.

• Inspect before each use. If any part or component shows damage, excessive wear or does not function properly, the entire unit should be removed from service.

• Never use any occupational protective equipment for anything other than its intended use.

• All occupational protective equipment must be inspected and thoroughly tested before each use.

• DO NOT use this unit if the total workload exceeds 700 lbs.

• For use by properly trained personnel only.

• Never allow cable to pass under or get wrapped around the legs, arms, neck or torso of the user or other workers.

• Never clamp off or stand on the cable nor allow the cable to become slack when in use.

• Rig to allow a minimum of 3 feet (.9 m) clearance to objects below should a fall occur.

• Never extend cable length by attaching extension lanyard. Use correct length for job.

• DO NOT disconnect personnel winch locking snap hook from D-Ring any time while working in confined space.

• Never attempt to lubricate, adjust, repair or modify any part or component. All repairs must be made at Winsafe Corp, One Valleywood Drive, Unit 1, Markham, Ontario L3R 5L9, Telephone 1-888-954-0009.

• DO NOT use this unit if any instruction or warning is not fully understood.

GM198 Winch Rear Mount Assembly
• Remove from storage bag.

• Remove retainer pin located on the bottom of the boom at the back.

• Move stacked tie-off rings on top of GM200A post to the side.

• Pin top of rear mount assembly to top of boom.

• Pin bottom of rear mount assembly to bottom of boom.

• Anchor brackets on under side of GM193 boom may be used to hang a self-retracting lifeline or tie-off ropes.

• Man-rated winches may be mounted on the back and front of the structure as shown, or the mix of a man-rated winch and an equipment winch.

GM135 and GM138 Permanent Base Plates
• GM135 is a double pin receiver base that is welded to a steel surface.

• GM138 is a double pin receiver base that may be welded to a steel surface or bolted to other surfaces.

• In using these 2 permanent mounting bases, the GM200A vertical post is pinned in place using the GM200A pins provided.

• When used with permanent bases, the GM200A provides a three-person tie-off anchor using the three tie-off rings provided at the top of the post.

• When breaking down the assembly and re-bagging, make certain all pins are in their proper place. Retract level screws on GM284A base so that the base is back resting on its wheels. This is necessary in order for the base locking pin to line up with the leg at front. Tighten all leg tension screws.

 
Pole Hoist Systems
The use of a Fallsoft® Pole Hoist for extraction vertically or horizontally is an extremely lightweight & versatile tool. All that is required is an approved anchor point above the confined space when used for vertical retrieval and/or a stationary approved anchor point in line with the opening when used for horizontal retrieval. The versatility of use is due to it’s unique swivel pulley head.
GM115 Description
General Specifications
Application Restrictions
• Adjustable reach from 5’ (1.5m) to 7’ 6” (2.3m).

GM174 extension available to extend the reach another 4’ (1.2m).

• Swivel head for vertical & horizontal applications.

• c/w anchor carabiner.

GM116 optional T bar leg support available.

• Lightweight.
• maximum working load of 350 lbs. (160 kg) per person.

• 6061-T6 aluminum

• Weight: 15 lbs. (6.8kg).

• Hardware: grade 5.

• Finish: Natural Aluminum or powder coated safety yellow.
• Inspect structure for defects prior to use.

• Use with approved winches or self retracting lifelines.

• Support anchor structure must withstand applied loads.

• anchor point to be 2 times the M.A.F. rating or 3600 lbs. (13.5 kN).



GM115 – Pole Hoist connected to anchor point on GM193 Boom Kit.




GM115 Pole Hoist with GM174 - 4’ extension & connected to anchor point on GM193 Boom Kit.



GM 115 Pole Hoist with GM116 T bar Leg assembly attached.


Image not Available



GM115
Pole Hoist used in a horizontal extraction application
Portable Sleeve Bases


GM132

Aluminum manhole sleeves are available that insert directly into a manhole opening. The vertical post & boom kit are then mounted onto this base for extraction. These units are available in 2 sizes: GM132 to fit 22” (55cm) to 24” (60cm) size opening and GM133 to fit 24” (60cm) to 26” (66cm) openings.
Permanent Mount Bases
GM135 for use on flat surface. Double pin style that is welded to top surface.


GM135

GM138





GM138 for use on flat surfaces. Double pin style that is bolted down to top surfaces.

FALLSOFT®/ UNI-HOIST® Safety Equipment
Engineered Safety Systems
Confined Space * Fall Protection * Rescue * Industrial Work Platforms


Total Capacity of 2 winches & 2 SRL’s





Base shown with wheels

UH505 – uni-hoist wt. 128 lbs. (58 kg)
GM900 – winch wt. 25 lbs (11 kg)
SRL – other manufacturer’s self retracting lifeline
UH505-W – Uni Hoist Base w/wheels 134 LBS (60 KG)


FEATURES




- Man rated to 350 lbs. (159kg)

-Solves vertical, horizontal and counterweight applications

-Provides 5000 lbs. (2268 kg) anchor point at U-bracket

-Complete with dual pulleys and back mount pulley

-Adapts to a variety of winches and other manufacturer’s self retracting lifelines

-Variable winch mounting heights

-Mast pivots 220 degrees

-Base expands from 36 in. (.914 mm) to 56 in (1422mm) inside dimension

- Base has leveling legs

- Bubble level

- Mast head and three piece base are lightweight aluminum

- Breaks down for easy storage and quick set up

- UH505-FD fire dept. hoist includes a 48 in. (121mm) high centre post and an expandable base from 52 in. (1321 mm) to 72 in (1829 mm) and a maximum offset of 24 in. (609 mm)

PERMANENT SLEEVE SYSTEMS

Permanent Sleeve Properties

- Available in zinc plated steel or 304 stainless steel
- Allow masts to pivot 360?
- ABS liners Delrin® slip plates
- Accepts up to 48” offset masts
- Drain holes











All Sleeves used with two piece mast Assembly w/ 18”-48” offset




UH504-18
Mast Head

UH502CP
Centre Post

Winsafe Corp.
One Valleywood Dr. Unit # 1
Markham, ON L3R 5L9
Ph. 905-474-9340
Fax. 905-474-9341
www.winsafe.com

Contact person: George Mackay
Ph. 770-639-2266
e-mail – george@winsafe.com

Copyright © 2003 WINSAFE Corp. All rights reserved.