The new innovation, which includes self-retracting lanyards (SRL) with attached mounting brackets that connect to a harness back D-ring, is now available.

The design was intended to allow workers to move from one location to another while remaining protected.

MSHA noted the SRLs could become an alternative to conventional double lanyards, otherwise known as “twin tail” or “double leg”, for a 100% tie-off.

“In an alternating or ‘leap-frog’ fashion the user attaches one SRL to an anchorage point, moves to a new location, attaches the second SRL, then disconnects the first SRL and moves again,” MSHA said.

“An advantage of using double SRLs versus conventional double-legged shock-absorbing lanyards is maintaining a shorter fall distance and eliminating the need for different fall protection equipment to address changes in fall clearance.”

MSHA created a list of manufacturers that have the systems available. More information can be obtained through its Applied Engineering Division.

Of the seven coal deaths recorded in 2009, one has been classified as Slip and Fall of Person.

On February 26, a 50-year old contractor with no mining experience, who was wearing a harness with an unanchored lanyard, fell from a stepladder after it was struck by a steel overhead door.