Patent ID: 8789655
Filing Date: 2014-07-29
Classification: A62B,E04G

Abstract:
1. A safety apparatus comprising: a first spool and a second spool each adapted to be releasably secured to a structure, a locking device operably movable between a released condition whereby the first spool and the second spool can rotate independently of each other, and a locked condition whereby each of the first spool and the second spool is partially locked relative to each other in a manner which prevents a length of a support line between the first spool and second spool from increasing, and the support line having a portion adapted to receive and support a securing device attached to an operator, the support line extending from the first spool to the second spool, via a second support assembly, wherein the locking device, when in the locked condition, partially locks the first and second spools relative to each other such that the first and second spools are incapacitated to feed the support line out simultaneously whilst still being capable of rotating independently from each in a manner which will retract the support line simultaneously; and wherein, when the apparatus supports a fallen operator, the locking device is maintained in the locked condition, partially locking the first spool relative to the second spool, preventing the length of the support line between the first spool and second spool from increasing, therefore preventing the operator from falling any further.