Irudek ASTUN Y 140HSS Double Energy Absorber Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Irudek ASTUN Y 140HSS is a double energy absorber lanyard designed as a critical component of a personal fall arrest system. It is engineered to reduce the impact force on the user during a fall, ensuring the force transmitted to the body remains below 6 kN.

This Y-type lanyard allows continuous connection to an anchor point, providing safety during movement. It complies with European standards EN 355:2002 for energy absorbers, EN 362:2004 for connectors, and VG11.063:2014, which includes additional resistance testing for double lanyards.

Image showing the Irudek ASTUN Y 140HSS Double Energy Absorber, featuring its Y-shaped lanyards and energy absorption pack.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: This product is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and its use requires proper training. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or death.

• Read and understand all instructions before using this equipment.
• This equipment must only be used by a competent person or a person under the direct supervision of a competent person.
• Perform a thorough pre-use check before each use.
• The equipment must be immediately removed from service and discarded after it has arrested a fall.
• Ensure compatibility with all other components of your fall arrest system (harness, anchor point, connectors).
• Be aware of environmental hazards such as sharp edges, extreme temperatures, chemicals, and electrical risks.
• Ensure the user is medically fit to perform work at height.

3. Components

The Irudek ASTUN Y 140HSS Double Energy Absorber consists of the following main parts:

• Energy Absorber Pack: A compact unit designed to tear open progressively during a fall, dissipating energy and reducing impact forces.
• Y-Lanyards: Two webbing lanyards extending from the energy absorber, allowing for continuous attachment.
• Connectors: Typically equipped with self-closing and self-locking hooks (EN 362 compliant) at the end of each lanyard and one for attachment to the harness.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps for proper setup and installation:

1. Connect to Harness: Attach the single end of the energy absorber (usually with a carabiner or connector) to the dorsal (back) or sternal (front) attachment point of your full-body harness, as specified by the harness manufacturer. Ensure the connector is fully closed and locked.
2. Connect to Anchor Point: Attach one or both of the Y-lanyards' connectors to a suitable anchor point. The anchor point must be capable of withstanding a minimum load of 12 kN (or 15 kN for non-metallic anchors) and be positioned to minimize the fall distance.
3. Verify Connections: Double-check that all connectors are securely closed and locked. Ensure there are no twists, kinks, or obstructions in the lanyards.
4. Clearance Check: Before commencing work, verify that there is sufficient free fall clearance below the work area to prevent impact with the ground or any obstacles in the event of a fall.

5. Operating Instructions

When using the ASTUN Y 140HSS Double Energy Absorber:

• Continuous Connection: Always maintain at least one lanyard connected to a secure anchor point while moving between work positions. This ensures continuous fall protection.
• Fall Clearance: Ensure the calculated fall clearance is always maintained. This includes the length of the lanyard, the deployment distance of the energy absorber, the height of the user, and a safety margin.
• Avoid Hazards: Keep lanyards away from sharp edges, abrasive surfaces, moving machinery, and sources of heat or chemicals that could damage the material.
• Maximum User Weight: This equipment is designed for a maximum user weight of 140 kg (including tools and clothing). Do not exceed this limit.
• Vertical Use: The energy absorber is designed for vertical use. Avoid situations where the lanyard could swing excessively after a fall (pendulum effect).

6. Maintenance and Inspection

6.1. Pre-use Checks

Before each use, visually inspect the entire energy absorber and lanyards for:

• Cuts, abrasions, fraying, or discoloration of webbing and stitching.
• Damage, deformation, corrosion, or cracks on metal connectors. Ensure gates open and close freely and lock securely.
• Damage or tearing of the energy absorber casing, which would indicate prior activation.
• Any signs of chemical contamination, heat damage, or excessive wear.

If any defects are found, or if there is any doubt about the product's condition, immediately remove it from service and consult a competent person.

6.2. Periodic Inspection

A thorough periodic inspection must be carried out by a competent person at least every 12 months, or more frequently depending on the intensity of use, environmental conditions, and national regulations. All inspection results must be recorded and retained.

6.3. Cleaning

Clean the equipment with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

7. Storage

Store the energy absorber in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, UV radiation, chemicals, corrosive substances, and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing in damp or humid conditions. Ensure the equipment is clean and dry before storage.

8. Troubleshooting

This product is a safety device and does not typically require troubleshooting in the traditional sense. If you encounter any issues, such as visible damage, signs of wear beyond acceptable limits, or if the energy absorber has been subjected to a fall, immediately remove the equipment from service.

Do not attempt to repair the equipment. Consult a competent person or contact Irudek directly for guidance. Continued use of damaged or compromised equipment can lead to serious injury or death.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

This Irudek product is covered by the manufacturer's standard warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For specific warranty terms, claims, technical support, or any further assistance, please contact Irudek directly or your authorized distributor.

Always retain your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.