Here's how to create tool tethering solutions for your tools and work applications, and how to appropriately attach tools to tethers.

1. Start with the tool/object you'd like to tether. Does it have an open handle or captive-eye hole?
2. Select a solution based on the weight of your tool/object. Do you need an attachment?
3. Choose the best tethering solution for the appropriate weight capacity.

Download our Build Your Own Tool Tethering System guides and/or FallTech For Tools instructional poster to hang in your office or onsite. See How-to videos below.

Information and Updates on Regulations

The ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 Standard is the first standard to establish design, testing and performance criteria for products designed to prevent dropped objects in the workplace. The standard addresses equipment used to tether and/or contain hand tools, components, structure and other objects from falling when working at heights.

ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 is establishing industry best practice of tool tethering equipment. Although ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 is not enforceable by OSHA, it does not mean you can ignore it. The standard falls under the “General Duty Clause”, if you are investigated over a dropped object injury. Any investigatory body will look to see if you were following the industry best practice.

The ANSI/ISEA Standard outlines 4 categories of equipment that are covered;

1. Anchor Attachments – Attachment solutions applied onto fixed anchor locations like a structure or a worker themselves to create secure connection points for tool tethers.
2. Tool Attachments – Solutions applied to tools and equipment being used at height that allows them to be tethered.
3. Tool Tethers – Lanyard, with at least one connector on each end that will connects a tool to an anchor point
4. Containers – Bags, buckets, or pouches used to transport tools, equipment, or parts to-and-from work areas at height.

The standard does not address passive preventive solutions such as:

• Netting
• Barricades
• Toe Boards
• Head Protection
• Foot Protection
• Eye Protection

The following information shall be on labeling permanently attached to all solutions, and must be visible and legible.

1. Name, Trademark or other means of identification of the manufacturer
2. Product identification (i.e. number, date code, and/or serial number)
3. Published capacity, identified by weight
4. Number of this specific ANSI standard
5. Tether length (for tool tethers only)
6. Max tether length (for anchor points, attachments and if applicable, containers)