Irudek 398 Energy Absorber Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of the Irudek 398 Energy Absorber. It is crucial to read and understand all instructions before using the product. This device is designed to reduce the impact force on a user during a fall, forming a critical component of a personal fall arrest system. Proper use, inspection, and maintenance are vital for user safety.

The Irudek 398 Energy Absorber complies with European standards EN 355 (Personal protective equipment against falls from a height - Energy absorbers) and EN 371 (Personal protective equipment against falls from a height - Lanyards with energy absorbers).

2. Product Overview

The Irudek 398 Energy Absorber is a component of a fall arrest system, designed to dissipate kinetic energy generated during a fall, thereby limiting the impact force transmitted to the user's body. It consists of a polyester webbing that tears progressively under load, extending the fall distance but significantly reducing the force. The absorber is equipped with connection elements for integration into a fall arrest system.

Figure 1: The Irudek 398 Energy Absorber. This image displays the full length of the energy absorber, featuring a central energy-absorbing pack with "398 180cm" and "Irudek" branding, and two robust carabiners at each end for attachment. The webbing is black polyester, with one end featuring a standard large-opening carabiner and the other end splitting into two sections, each terminating in a large-opening carabiner. The central pack is encased in clear plastic, showing the folded webbing inside.

Key Features:

• Material: Constructed from durable polyester webbing.
• Connectors: Includes two steel carabiners, one with a screw-gate closure and another with a 55mm opening, for secure attachment.
• Standards Compliance: Conforms to European standards EN 355 and EN 371.
• Length: Approximately 180 cm (when fully extended after deployment).

3. Setup and Connection

The Irudek 398 Energy Absorber must be correctly integrated into a complete fall arrest system, which includes a full-body harness and an anchorage point. Ensure all components are compatible and certified.

1. Inspect Components: Before each use, thoroughly inspect the energy absorber, carabiners, and all other components of your fall arrest system for any signs of damage, wear, corrosion, or deformation. Refer to the Maintenance section for detailed inspection criteria.
2. Connect to Harness: Attach one end of the energy absorber (typically the end with the single carabiner or the central ring if applicable) to the dorsal (back) or sternal (front) attachment point of your full-body harness. Ensure the carabiner is fully closed and locked (if screw-gate).
3. Connect to Anchorage: Attach the other end(s) of the energy absorber (the carabiner(s) with 55mm opening) to a suitable anchorage point. The anchorage point must be capable of withstanding a minimum static load of 12 kN (approximately 2700 lbs) per person attached. Ensure the carabiner(s) are fully closed and locked.
4. Clearance Distance: Verify that there is sufficient clearance below the work area to prevent impact with the ground or any obstruction in the event of a fall. Calculate the required clearance distance, considering the length of the energy absorber, the deployment distance of the absorber (up to 1.75 meters for EN 355), the length of the lanyard, the height of the user, and a safety margin.

Warning: Never connect the energy absorber to an anchorage point that is below the dorsal attachment point of the harness, as this can increase fall distance and impact force.

4. Operating Instructions

The Irudek 398 Energy Absorber operates automatically in the event of a fall. Its primary function is to limit the impact force on the user to below 6 kN, as required by EN 355.

• Fall Event: If a fall occurs, the energy absorber pack will tear open, progressively extending to dissipate the energy. This action increases the total fall distance but significantly reduces the force exerted on the user's body.
• Post-Fall Protocol: After a fall, the energy absorber must be immediately removed from service and destroyed. It is a single-use device designed to deploy once. Even if the absorber appears intact, its energy-absorbing capacity may be compromised.
• Rescue Plan: Always have a rescue plan in place when working at height. Prolonged suspension in a harness after a fall can lead to suspension trauma.
• User Weight: Ensure the user's weight, including tools and equipment, falls within the specified range for the energy absorber (typically 50 kg to 100 kg, refer to product labeling for exact limits).

5. Maintenance and Storage

Proper maintenance and storage are essential to ensure the longevity and safety of your Irudek 398 Energy Absorber.

5.1. Inspection

Regular and thorough inspections are critical. The energy absorber should be inspected:

• Before Each Use: A visual and tactile inspection by the user.
• Periodically: A detailed inspection by a competent person at least every 12 months, or more frequently depending on usage and environmental conditions.

Look for the following during inspection:

• Webbing: Cuts, abrasions, fraying, burns, discoloration, or chemical damage.
• Stitching: Loose, broken, or damaged stitching.
• Energy Absorber Pack: Any signs of tearing, deployment, or damage to the protective casing. If the pack is deployed, the product must be retired.
• Carabiners/Connectors: Deformation, cracks, corrosion, sharp edges, proper functioning of the gate and locking mechanism. Ensure the gate closes and locks automatically and securely.
• Labels: Ensure all product labels are legible and present.

Any product showing signs of damage, excessive wear, or having been subjected to a fall must be immediately removed from service and destroyed.

5.2. Cleaning

If cleaning is necessary:

• Use lukewarm water (max 30°C) and a mild soap.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Allow to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials.

5.3. Storage

Store the energy absorber in a cool, dry, dark, and well-ventilated place, away from:

• Direct sunlight and UV radiation.
• Extreme temperatures.
• Chemicals, corrosive substances, and their fumes.
• Sharp objects or abrasive surfaces.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues and actions to take.

• Product shows signs of wear or damage: Immediately remove the product from service. Do not attempt to repair it. Dispose of it according to local regulations or return it to the manufacturer for assessment.
• Product has been subjected to a fall: Even if no visible damage is apparent, the energy absorber's internal structure may be compromised. It must be immediately removed from service and destroyed.
• Carabiner mechanism is stiff or not locking properly: Clean the carabiner thoroughly. If the issue persists, remove the product from service. Do not force the mechanism.
• Labels are unreadable or missing: Critical safety information and product identification may be lost. Remove the product from service.

Never use a damaged or compromised energy absorber. Your life depends on the integrity of your fall arrest equipment.

7. Technical Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Warranty information for the Irudek 398 Energy Absorber is typically provided by the manufacturer at the time of purchase or can be found on the official Irudek website. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

For technical support, further information, or to report any issues, please contact Irudek 2000 S.L. directly through their official customer service channels. Always refer to the product's specific labeling for contact details and the most up-to-date information.

It is recommended to register your product with the manufacturer if such an option is available, to receive important safety updates or recall notices.