Can I use a self retracting lifeline on a flat roof or leading edge application?
In general terms we would discourage this use. There are a few problems that come up. -The cable or webbing becoming frayed or cut when moving across a roof edge. -The cable speed must reach approx 4-5 feet per second to activate the brakes on most units, and this may not happen if there is any slope or you encounter other obstructions that slow your fall -Swing fall hazards may present themselves. Depending on where you are in relation to the self retracting lifeline anchorage and/or the presence of a corner, you may end up with significant sideways motion. This can increase your fall distance as well as the hazard of swinging into some other obstruction. -If you do use an SRL for this application, be sure to position the SRL on its edge, rather than laying flat. This will allow the cable or webbing to spool properly. There are brackets available for this. Also, a separate special shock absorber (DBI part number 1220362) may be advisable, since the roof edge may limit the built-in eff
