The NBR 16325-1 standard, updated in March 2024, addresses the requirements for types A, B, D, and E anchor devices designed exclusively for use as part of a personal fall protection system (PFPS). This standard specifies the requirements, testing methods, and usage instructions for these anchor devices, ensuring they meet the minimum performance criteria before being marketed and integrated into a quality management system.
Scope and Exclusions
The NBR 16325-1 standard is not applicable to:
- Anchor devices used in sports or recreational activities.
- Structural elements or parts of structures installed for purposes other than anchor points, such as beams and columns.
- Structural anchors.
- Anchor devices for machinery, motorized or non-motorized equipment, scaffolding, excluding PFPS used with suspended chairs or scaffolding.
Type C anchor devices are covered under a separate standard, NBR 16325-2.
Key Requirements and Testing Methods
Anchori devices are critical components of any work-at-height system utilizing a parachute-type safety harness. The standard is based on the principle that the anchor device must sustain the maximum dynamic force generated during a fall, considering the mass of the user and any carried equipment.
Static Force Testing
Static force tests are based on a minimum safety factor of two. Devices must ensure that the impact force on the worker does not exceed 6 kN. For type B anchoring devices with feet (e.g., tripods), a steel cable connection line, as specified in NBR ISO 2408, must be used. The force application speed should comply with NBR ISO 7500-1, with the separation speed of the test machine heads adjusted according to the component length.
Dynamic Force Testing
For dynamic testing, a rigid steel mass of 100 ±1 kg is used. If the device is designed for multiple users, the mass increases to 200 ±1 kg. The testing ensures the device can withstand a fall arrest force of 9 ±1 kN. For devices where more than one person uses the anchor simultaneously, the fall arrest force is tested at 12 ±1 kN.
Anchoring Structure Requirements
The rigid anchoring structure must be designed to prevent vibration frequencies below 100 Hz and ensure that a force of 20 kN does not cause a deflection greater than 1 mm. The anchor point height must ensure that no part of the system or test mass contacts the ground during testing.
Material and Design Specifications
The standard mandates that metallic parts of the anchor devices be free of sharp edges that could harm users or damage the device or PFPS. Exposed edges should have a minimum radius of 0.5 mm or be chamfered to 0.5 mm × 45°. Metal components must pass corrosion resistance tests, and synthetic fibers used in textile components must meet specific breaking strength criteria.
Additional Considerations
For devices with removable elements, design requirements ensure they cannot be incorrectly assembled. If the device includes connectors, they must comply with NBR 15837 standards. Galvanized steel cables must meet NBR ISO 2408 standards. Any U-clips used must conform to NBR 11900-4 heavy-duty specifications.
Conclusion
The NBR 16325-1 standard is a comprehensive guideline ensuring the safety and reliability of fall protection anchor devices. Adherence to these specifications helps safeguard workers at height, ensuring that equipment performs as expected in critical situations. For more detailed information on the requirements and testing methods, professionals can refer to the full text of the NBR 16325-1 standard and related documents.