ISSN: 1945-7553
CODEN: JTEVAB
Page Count: 5

Measurement of Maximum Arrest Force in Performance Tests of Fall Protection Equipment

Sulowski, AC
Research Engineer, Ontario Hydro, Research Division, Toronto, Ontario

Brinkley, JW
Director of Biodynamics and Bioengineering, Harry G. Armstrong Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH

(Received 18 December 1987; accepted 7 September 1989)

Abstract

Frequency response characteristics for electronic measurement systems and mechanical test fixtures used in tests of fall protection equipment are proposed. The recommendations are based upon the analysis of the dynamic properties of the human body as measured in impact and vibration tests with volunteer subjects. The critical frequencies that are associated with human injury were found to be in the range of 0 to 16 Hz. A corner frequency of 100 Hz is recommended for the measurement system, and a minimum resonant frequency of 200 Hz is recommended for the mechanical test fixture.

Keywords:
fall protection, arrest force, impact tests, frequency response

Paper ID: JTE12462J
DOI: 10.1520/JTE12462J
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