Tool tethering
All about tool straps
All about tool straps
Learn about everything in the field of securing tools and utilities against drops or loss
About use of tool straps
At work in height it is important not only to secure yourself against falls but also to secure its tools or utilities. Falling tools or utilities can be extremely dangerous. Tool securing is best done with tool straps.
Step 1: Choose type of tool strap
Determine the tool strap type based on the tool / utility weight and how it will be used.
A - Personal (Stuck to Person)
B - Tightened to structure
C - Retractable
D - Wrist
Step 2: Determine Tool Tethering
Single tool
When you do not need to quickly remove the strap or replace the tool, a strapped single tool strap is acceptable.
It is worth considering whether to tighten just a single tool or utility or if you want the option to replace the tool at the same buckle for convenience.
Multiple tools
Where you want to use more tools and easily switch between these but fastened to the same buckle, quick clip solutions and karabin gardens can be used tight for the tool.
Step 3: Choose point of tethering
The tool has a tethering point
Here you can fasten the tool strap through a loop through the recommended hole in the tool.
Or with a carry ring attached with recommended Band-it tape.
Tool with large endings
If the tool has large enough ends for a strap to be fitted around the tool without risk of the strap slipping over the ends.
Alternatively, a carry ring can be mounted with recommended Band-it tape.
Tool with small endings
If the tool does not have large enough ends for a strap to not slip over, attach a ring around the tool where a worn ring can be tied to strap or carabiner mounting.
The tool requires modification
If none of the alternatives are possible, you have to modify the tool with, for example, a hole for strap or the like. (Note if the tool is safely functionable after modification)
How to attach the tool
It is not unusual to find a tool that does not have an attachment point. Hamsters, wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers are typical of commonly used tools, which often need to be changed to secure them and prevent "falling tools" accidents. To securely attach these tools, you need to create a secure attachment point for connection to your strap or lanyard. The most practical method is to mount a "load ring" for easy connection and disconnection to a tool strap. This can be done in a number of ways based on the tool, application and user.
We have divided the attachment methods to three generic types of tools; tools that have geometry (big ends), non-geometry tools (without big ends where a strap can slide over the end) and tools that need a pivotal connection (such as a screwdriver).
Tools with geometry
Tools with large enough ends or fastening points where there is no risk that a strap may slide over the end.
Tools without geometry
Tools without big enough ends that a strap will not slide over the end
For structural integrity, all tool attachments should be made with the strap wrapped around the tool in a loop. The use of reinforced tape is simply for keeping the tool strap from not slipping off the tool.
Step 1
Fold tool strap around the tool in a loop
Step 2
Tighten the loop tight to the tool
With tool straps with buckle along the strap it is important that the strap is tightened fully into the tool.
Step 3
Firmly tighten the strap with reinforced tape to minimize the risk that the strap may slide off the tool.
It is recommended to tape across.
Don't do!
We do not recommend using reinforced tape as the only structural component of a tooling.
The strap can be hung loose after assembly.
Or one can further tape strap to the tool in order to avoid entanglement and to provide greater freedom of movement of the tool straps.
Attach tool strap in a loop around the tool and tighten it tight.
Note: The tool strap must be attached to the tool directly, not to a handle that may fall of.
Tape the strap directly to the tool. Keep in mind, we recommend taping across.
Examples of mounting strap with rotary mechanism
Remember: with turning mechanisms like these, it is recommended to tether the strap to the wrist to better rotate the tool
