Self Retracting Device Service
Comprehensive Safety for Self-Retracting Devices
Self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) are a critical part of fall protection systems—and your life may depend on them functioning properly. According to Canadian law, SRLs must undergo inspection and certification every year.
Hercules Crane and Lifting Supplies provides ASME-certified self-retracting device services, including full inspection, load testing, and detailed maintenance. Our experienced technicians check for mechanical damage, verify safety locking functionality, inspect legibility of labels, and confirm if the energy absorber has been activated. Any SRL showing signs of deployment must be removed from service and destroyed.
With both in-shop and mobile testing units, we make it easy to keep your self-retracting device certification up to date—so you can focus on getting home safely.
Comprehensive Fall Arrest Inspection Services
Fall Protection Harness Certification
Inspection, functional testing, and certification of all styles and brands of fall protection harnesses.
Fall Protection Lanyard Certification
Detailed inspection, performance testing, and re-tagging for shock-absorbing and positioning lanyards.
Self-Retracting Device Certification
Thorough examination, dynamic testing, and compliance verification for self-retracting lifelines and devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about self-retracting device inspection and certification.
A Self Retracting Device Service involves the thorough inspection, maintenance, and, when necessary, repair of fall protection systems such as Self Retracting Devices (SRDs), also known as Self Retracting Lifelines (SRLs) or lanyards. These services are essential components of an effective fall protection safety program and are required by both Canadian and ANSI standards.
All fall protection equipment, including SRDs, must be visually inspected before each use by the worker. If any defective condition is found—such as damaged webbing, a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or a missing label—the device must be immediately removed from service and undergo a formal Self Retracting Device Service before it can be returned to the field.
According to the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standard CAN/CSA Z259.2.2-17, a self-retracting device must be returned to the manufacturer or an authorized agent for servicing no more than 2 years after its manufacture date, and then annually thereafter. This regulation ensures the continued effectiveness and safety of the equipment.
In the U.S., ANSI Z359.2 requires that all fall protection gear, including SRDs, undergo a formal inspection by a Competent Person. Depending on factors like frequency of use, worksite conditions, and manufacturer guidelines, more frequent Self Retracting Device Services may be necessary.
Self-retracting devices play a crucial role in workplace fall protection. Typically attached to the D-ring of a safety harness, these lifelines lock automatically to arrest a fall, reducing both fall distance and the risk of serious injury. Many models include deceleration or shock-absorbing features, which help slow a fall to a controlled stop over short distances—often within 3.5 feet.
There is no room for compromise when it comes to fall protection. Ensuring your equipment receives timely and thorough Self Retracting Device Service means greater peace of mind for your team and greater compliance with national safety standards.