A device and method for arresting a fall

摘要

A device for arresting the fall of an individual wherein a plurality of layers of a elongated webbing are wound on a drum so that when a fall occurs the weight of the fall is absorbed by compaction of the layers of the elongated webbing on the drum and the elongation of the portion of the elongated webbing unreeled from the drum. Also, a locking mechanism is disclosed when a spring urges a pawl against a rotating surface having a cam until the speed of rotation of the cam overcomes the force of the spring and moves the pawl into engagement with a catch. The cam moves the pawl into the engagement zone at lower than locking speeds and requires the normal action of the spring and pivot pin to pull the pawl out of the engagement zone before the tip of the sperrad engages it, thus providing a fail safe advantage. In further embodiments, the device is attached to a body safety harness usually worn by a worker. <IMAGE>