How to Properly Use a Double-Leg Lanyard?

In jobs that require working at height, employee safety is directly related to choosing the right equipment and using it correctly. One of the most important pieces of this equipment is the double leg lanyard. Especially in areas where the risk of falling is high, the correct use of this equipment—which ensures the worker remains continuously secured—is of vital importance.

What Is a Double Leg Lanyard?

A double leg lanyard is a fall arrest or positioning device with one end connected to a safety harness (full body harness) and two separate ends that can be attached to different anchor points. Thanks to its two legs, the worker can disconnect one attachment while maintaining continuous protection with the other. This feature provides a significant advantage, especially in steel construction, scaffolding, power lines, and industrial maintenance work.

Correct Usage Steps

First of all, a double leg lanyard must be used together with a suitable full body safety harness. The main connection point of the lanyard should be securely attached to the back or front attachment ring (D-ring) of the harness.

The carabiners at the ends of both legs must be connected to solid and fixed anchor points compliant with the EN 795 standard. Positioning the anchor point above the worker reduces the potential fall distance and increases safety.

When moving from one point to another during work, the free leg should first be attached to the new anchor point, and only then should the other leg be disconnected. This method ensures that the worker is never completely unsecured.

Points to Consider

• A double leg lanyard should never be used to attach both legs to a single anchor point.
• For models with shock absorbers, sufficient clearance must be left to allow the shock absorber to deploy freely.
• If there is wear, cuts, deformation on the lanyard, or locking problems with the carabiners, the product must not be used.
• Pre-use and periodic inspections must be carried out regularly.

Conclusion

When used correctly, a double leg lanyard provides uninterrupted safety during work at height. However, incorrect anchor selection or improper connection can lead to serious accidents. For this reason, it is essential that workers receive proper training on the equipment and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions during use. For a safe working environment, correct equipment is just as important as correct usage.