MSA Africa makes working at heights safer

The MSA Africa Latchways Personal Rescue Device (PRD) integrated harness system is a lightweight, unobtrusive rescue device contained in a small backpack, attached to a full-body harness. It has been designed to be used in conjunction with a fall-protection system or anchor point.

The patented components of the Latchways PRD fit neatly into the backpack, allowing workers to carry out their daily tasks unhindered. The backpack becomes part of the daily personal protective equipment (PPE) required for those working at height.

In the event of a fall, the MSA Latchways PRD suspends the worker, who is then lowered to the ground gently in a controlled descent. The device features a 20-m spool of Aramid rope, released at a controlled rate via an integral braking mechanism. The innovative design uses quality components and a limited number of moving parts so as to guarantee 100-percent mechanical integrity.

The MSA Latchways PRD requires no specialist training, as it is simply worn in conjunction with a standard full-body harness, and is activated by simply pulling the release cord. Pre-use checks are minimal.

The Latchways PRD range includes a Workman Premier and Workman Utility full-body harness. A rescue pole (which extends from 800 to 3 400 mm) is also available, which can be used by a third party to activate the Latchways PRD in the event of a worker at height being incapacitated.

MSA Africa’s harness-system offering has been enhanced further with the addition of its Latchways 3 m Personal Fall Limiter (PFL), designed specifically for environments where close anchorage is available. The lanyard uses multiple-spring radial energy-absorbing technology, believed to be a world-first.

The new design eliminates the need for an external energy absorber outside of the housing, resulting in this being the most compact PFL available on the market today.

Suitable for a range of applications, the MSA Latchways PFL requires zero recalibration or adjustment. A fully rotating attachment point allows for total flexibility, including 180° and 360°. Precision engineering has resulted in a structurally reinforced pawl mechanism.

The Self-Retracting Lifeline (SRL) is housed in a highly durable polycarbonate casing that is transparent to allow for easy visual inspection of critical internal components. All components have been manufactured from high-grade stainless steel and engineered plastics.

The MSA Latchways PFL is supplied with a choice of steel or aluminium top carabiner, with a range of connectors to select from. These include a forged-steel snaphook, an aluminium or steel scaffold hook, or a forged-steel swivel snaphook.

It can withstand a temperature range from –40°C to +54°C. The high-performing, high-strength webbing has been manufactured to EN360: 2002, ANSI Z359.14 – 2012, OSHA 1910.66, OSHA 1926.502, and CSA Z259.2.2-98 standards.