What are Tie-Back Anchors?
Introduction
Tie-back anchors, like any other form of fall protection, serve the purpose of ensuring worker safety within the workplace. Tie-back anchors ensure that workers are secured to the working surface while working at heights by providing a permanent solution. They can be designed to create a horizontal lifeline or used as a single-point anchor. Tie-back anchors are also helpful in suspending equipment by providing a structural attachment between buildings and support equipment that can prevent accidental movement.
OSHA has put standards in place in order to properly ensure worker safety while working at heights. Anchorage, as defined by OSHA, is “a secure point of attachment for equipment such as lifelines, lanyards, or deceleration devices.” As deemed by OSHA, anchorages must be “Capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds for each employee attached; or designed, installed, and used, under the supervision of qualified person.” These standards exist in order to ensure worker safety, as working at heights comes with risk.
Where do I use Tie-Back Anchors?
Tie-back anchors are used in a variety of applications, however they are most commonly used in rooftop applications. In fact, they have multiple functions on rooftops. Typically, they’re used for jobs that entail window washing and painting, but they can also be used for external maintenance jobs, temporary rigging equipment, and rope descent systems. In addition, tie-back anchors can be used indoor, on virtually any platform with a leading edge. Examples of this include manufacturing plants with elevated working surfaces. Tie-back anchors can also be used to prevent workers from falling into floor openings such as oil changing pits.
How do I know I’m properly using a Tie-Back Anchor?
In order to be sure you’re properly connected to an anchor, you first have to check your equipment. Inspecting your gear and equipment for faults or tears will help to ensure the anchor will keep you secured whilst working. It is critical to check the anchorage installation instructions, as these give in detail what the limitations are for the anchorage point. If still unsure how to properly use a tie-back anchor, HySafe offers installation and training services to ensure peace of mind that your workplace is OSHA compliant. HySafe’s sister company, Premier Fall Protection, offers yearly recertification services to make sure your fall protection systems are OSHA compliant for years to come. Premier recertification specialists will come on site to inspect and assess your equipment conditions. If replacements are necessary, Premier can handle the reordering and installation process, making it a quick and easy experience.
For more information about Premier Fall Protection, click here.
What kinds of Tie-Back Anchors does HySafe Offer?
There are a variety of different types of tie-back anchors, as they are customizable to different needs. They vary in different heights and attachments to best fit the desired job. Tie-back anchors are especially useful for stand-alone jobs, such as window washing, when a consistent amount of weight will be on the anchor, and when you will be consistently going in one direction.
Tie-Back Anchors
HySafe’s tie-back anchors are constructed of galvanized steel, with various mounting options such as backer plated, welded, direct bolting, casting into concrete and just welding posts. Loop customization options are offered in either stainless steel or galvanized. They’re available in 14”, 20”, 26” and even customizable heights. Made of galvanized steel, they are secure anchor points, and are sustainable against harsh environments. View Product
Tie-Back Wall Anchors
HySafe also features a tie-back wall anchor, which can be attached to flat surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and floors and has a 4” x 10” footprint. It is removable and reusable, and also features a variety of customizable features such as stainless steel or galvanized loop options. For attachment, options range from adhesive mounting, backer plates, casting into concrete, and plates for welding, ensuring a variety of options for safety. The capacity is higher than OSHA standard, being developed to have a capacity of 7,000 lbs. If Tie-back Anchors or Wall Anchors aren’t suitable for your workplace, HySafe also offers Fabricated Posts. These are much more customizable and feature a bolt hole on top as to be able to have different attachments, such as stainless steel and galvanized loops. This makes it perfect for jobs that require a pass through system. This is practical so you can have a full area of protection in multiple directions, even at heights. View Product
Fabricated Posts
HySafe’s fabricated posts are available as single point, intermediate, or end or corner anchorage and are available in a range of heights from 12”, 18”, and 24”. They are easy to install and have low maintenance. Mounting options are customizable, such as welding posts with no base plate, backer plates, direct bolting, welding options or even casting in concrete. View Product
Source: www.osha.gov