DSL System

Double Self-Retracting Lanyard (DSL)

As a business we identified a conventional twin tail lanyard by design was sometimes
ineffective at preventing falls not only at low level but at any height by the nature of their
design, as they have a 1.75 meter fixed length lanyard in essence you could fall 1.75m
before the systems starts to arrest a fall thus putting forces into the body (we are not saying
conventional lanyards are not fit for purpose, clearly they are, and meet all legal
requirements and industry best practice), the idea of devising a twin retractable system is
that similar to a seat belt mechanism it has a break system which when force is applied
locks and thus limits the distance fallen & the force imposed on the body as a consequence
momentum is not gained.
I identified several types on the market but they all had issues mainly around the forces
imposed on the body when both connectors and attached simultaneously and when NOT
attached above head height.
I then spoke with our current harness and lanyard supplier who agreed to work with me to
develop a product, I gave them the concept and we both then worked on the design, after a
month we had the first prototype which we trialled on site working at grade to ensure the
principle worked which it did, we asked for feedback from the users on the product and
went back to the supplier who incorporated the adaptions mentioned by the operatives.
The manufacturer then made another 8 products 4 of which were for trial and 4 went to an
independent test house (Satra) they were tested to EN 355 and EN360 as both the shock
absorber and the inertia system have a standard they must comply with, both passed with
flying colours and recorded forces ranging from 3.7 kn to 4.2kn which is well below the
required standard of 6kn.
The units were put on trial for a further 4 weeks and were phased out of service at
prescribed periods to understand their wear and tear / performance they were then
stripped down to view all internal parts, adaptions were made again from the feedback.
My personal contribution was to undertake a due diligence report on the initial system
which in which I quickly exposed a fatal flaw and rather than be "rail roaded" I challenged
the suppliers based on my findings when it would have been very easy to accept what had
been said, then with manufacturers help we collectively designed a new product and
brought it to market place I feel personally very proud of my achievement / role in this
process which I know will benefit many people working at height.
In addition I have amended all company safe systems of work, and devised a training
package which is given to every user prior to utilising the product.
This product will prevent a significant number of falls when using an above head height
anchorage point.

Double Self-Retracting Lanyard

Product Name:
Double Self-Retracting Lanyard
Order Code:
DSL-138
What is it?
(Product Description):
This is an innovative solution combining the benefits
of energy absorbing lanyards and self-retracting
lifelines. Two small self-retracting lifeline units are
combined with an energy absorbing pack to create a
double legged lanyard. This device is CE certified
to EN360 and complies with the dynamic performance requirements of EN355. The Double SelfRetracting Lanyard is used as the connecting element between your full body harness and anchor
point.

Revision Date 02/01/2013

What can it be used for?

(Intended Function):
The Double Self-retracting Lanyard has been designed and tested to absorb the forces of a fall; this
means that it is intended to be used as part of a Fall
Arrest System for climbing and accessing unprotected structures. The energy absorbing unit allows
attachment to low level anchors up to 2m below you.
Double legged lanyard construction allows you to
move safely between anchor points and around
structures. By including self-retracting units the
lanyards will also react as you fall to help limit any
free fall distance before the energy absorber activates.
What can I use with it? (Compatibility):
The Double Self-Retracting Lanyard is compatible
with the following equipment and their associated
systems;
The CLIMA harness
The ULTIMA harness
The EXCEL harness range
CLIMA Work Position Lanyard
Horizontal safety lines

If you are unsure of any equipment and its compatibility with the Double Self-Retracting Lanyard please
contact SpanSet Ltd.
Who can use it?
(Competence, Size and Adjustment):
Work at height can be a high risk activity. It is therefore essential that all users are competent in the pre
use inspection, fitting / adjustment and use of this
item.
The Double Self-Retracting Lanyard has a maximum
working length of 2m when fully extended by the
worker. The working length is automatically reduced
to its minimum as you change your position in relation to the anchor point.
The Double Self-Retracting Lanyard has been design
and tested for workers up to 140kg in body weight.
How long will it last?
(Maintenance, Inspection and Lifespan):
The lifespan of the Double Self-Retracting Lanyard is
limited by the following;
The product has a maximum shelf-life of 10 years
from the date of manufacture.
Page 1 of 2

Height Safety

Double Self-Retracting Lanyard

The product has a maximum service-life of 5 years

from the date of first use.
The lifespan may also be reduced by the effects of
damage or wear and tear.
The lifespan will cease at the point when any one of
these conditions is met.
The condition of the product must be controlled in
accordance with BS8437:2005, this requires regular
inspections to be carried out by a competent person.
How has it been tested?
(Relevant Standard and Quality Assurance):
The Double Self-Retracting Lanyard is CE marked
under the Personal Protective Equipment Directive.
The CE marking process includes independent
testing to:
EN360:2002 Personal protective equipment against
falls from a height. Retractable type fall arresters
In addition to this the notified test house have conducted test in accordance with dynamic performance
requirements of:
EN355:2002 Personal protective equipment against
falls from a height. Energy absorbers
The SpanSet manufacturing process is quality controlled and audited by the British Standards Institute
to the international standard for quality management
ISO9001:2008.
What is it made from and why?
(Specification and Materials):
Self Retracting Lanyard Units with 17mm Polyester
coated Vetran Web Lifeline
Limits free fall distance, reducing clearance height
requirement
High Strength to weight ratio
High Abrasion resistance
High Temperature resistance
Unique Construction of Energy Absorbing Unit
Stores discreetly on rear of harness
Does not affect the working length or mobility of
the lanyards
Ensures impact forces below 6kN for workers up
to 140kg
Steel Scaffold Hooks

Additional SpanSet Features:

Individual Serial Numbering All SpanSet Height
safety products are individually serial numbered for
traceability.
What paperwork is supplied?
(Product Records and Information):
Individual Product History Card This record card
contains all the documentation required to maintain
the product. The front forms the European Declaration of Conformity and the table on the reverse can
be completed to form the inspection record.
Pocket Inspection Guide This simple to follow
pocket card identifies the key areas requiring inspection.
What training is required?
(Competency):
Although in itself this is a simple item to use, there
are three stages that should be considered as part of
the process as a whole. Training is available for all
the stages outlined at the SpanSet training school in
Middlewich or subject to suitability on a site of your
choice:
Assessment and planning Training Module 9 Management of Work At Height
Use Training Module 1 Height Safety Equipment
Appreciation and Inspection followed by an appropriate practical module.
Inspection and Maintenance Training Module 1 and
Module 7 Competent Person Practical Inspection &
Record Keeping.
All training for work at height is conducted in accordance with BS8454:2006 and is audited as part of
our ISO9001:2008 quality management system.
For additional information on training please got to
www.spanset.co.uk or Email: training@spanset.co.uk
What if I need to know more?
(Further Information):
If you have any specific questions that have not been
answered you should contact the SpanSet customer
services department. Tel: 01606737494 Email: customerservices@spanset.co.uk

Lightweight
Connected via a swivel to the lanyard, preventing
twists
Captivated onto lanyard to prevent loss

Revision Date 02/01/2013

Page 2 of 2