What is meant by DGUV Rule 112-199?
DGUV Rule 112-199 is a key guideline for rescue from heights and depths using personal fall protection equipment. In working environments where employees are confronted with potential fall hazards, a sound knowledge and application of this rule is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of workers. Given the risks associated with working at height, the correct selection, use and maintenance of personal fall protection equipment plays an essential role in minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring that rescue operations are carried out effectively. This rule serves as an indispensable guide for employers, safety officers and employees to ensure that appropriate protective measures are taken and that a quick and safe rescue is guaranteed in the event of a fall.
Risk assessment: choosing the right fall protection equipment
The following aspects should be taken into account when selecting personal fall protection equipment during the risk assessment in accordance with DGUV Rule 112-199:
- Rescue time and possibilities: The equipment must enable a quick and effective rescue, depending on the rescue duration and the specific requirements of the workplace.
- Ergonomics and customization: The equipment should be adaptable to the user's ergonomics in order to reduce physical strain and improve comfort.
- Workstation and environmental characteristics: The characteristics of the workplace and the environment, such as cramped conditions or the presence of aggressive substances, must be taken into account when selecting equipment.
- Rescue direction and number of people: The equipment must be suitable according to the possible direction of rescue and the number of persons to be rescued.
- Length of the rescue route: The equipment must be adequately dimensioned for the expected length of the rescue route.
- Restrictions on use and manufacturer's information: It is important to observe possible application restrictions according to the manufacturer's information to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the equipment.
- Attachment point and load capacity: The characteristics of the attachment point for the system, including location and load capacity, must meet the requirements.
- Suitability for different uses: The equipment should be suitable for all phases of use, including rescue, access, work and rescue.
Finally, it is crucial that the contractor selects personal fall protection equipment taking these criteria into account. In doing so, he should select the appropriate rescue harnesses or rescue loops, rescue lifting devices, abseiling devices and connecting elements in close consultation with the users. This selection should not only comply with the legal requirements, but also meet the individual requirements and conditions of the workplace. This is the only way to ensure effective protection and a quick and safe rescue in the event of a fall.
Rescue procedure by scenario
DGUV Rule 112-199 sets out clear procedures for rescue in various scenarios, including rescuing from a shaft, container, silos and confined spaces, rescuing from a climbing protection system and rescuing a person hanging freely in a room.
Rescuing from a shaft, container, silos and confined spaces
Special precautions must be taken when rescuing from a shaft or similar confined space. A rescue harness or a full body harness, combined with a fall arrester and integrated rescue lifting device, are essential. In addition, a mobile anchorage device such as a tripod is required. The rescued person can be pulled up safely using the rescue lifting device.
Rescuing from an arrester and
Special measures are also required when rescuing from an arrester system, for example on roofs, in high-bay warehouses or on wind turbines. A safety harness combined with an abseiling device with a lifting function is essential. One or more webbing slings are required for attachment, which serve as an anchorage device in accordance with DIN EN 795.
Rescuing a person hanging freely in space.
Special precautions must be taken when rescuing a person hanging freely in space, for example after a fall from roof edges or platforms. A safety harness is essential, as is an abseiling device with a lifting function. Rope clamps and anchorage devices are required for fixation and additional securing. It is recommended that you use a fall-arrest rope to prevent getting caught on or hitting components during the rescue procedure.
General information on the rescue concept
In order to be able to react appropriately in the event of an emergency, it is the responsibility of the employer to develop a detailed rescue concept. The specific circumstances of the workplace are taken into account in order to ensure an effective rescue. This concept forms the basis for training and instructing employees in accordance with the provisions of DGUV Rule 112-199. It also contains instructions on the correct use of the various items of equipment to ensure that they can be used properly in an emergency and guarantee the safety of employees.
Use and service life of PPE
The use and duration of use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment against falls from a height) is crucial for the safety of employees in working environments where there is a risk of falling. PPE has a limited lifespan and useful life and it is important to regularly check whether continued safe use is guaranteed. This inspection should be carried out by an expert and is the responsibility of the employer.
The inspection interval for checking PPE depends on various factors, including the conditions of use and operational circumstances. However, it is imperative that this inspection is carried out at least every twelve months to ensure the safety of employees and that the equipment is working properly.
Regular inspection and maintenance of PPE can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and allow employees to work with a higher level of safety. It is therefore essential that the employer implements the appropriate measures for checking and maintaining personal protective equipment and ensures that these are carried out properly. This will ensure the safety of employees and minimize the risk of accidents.
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