Patent Publication Number: US-9416552-B2

Title: Erector scaffold deck fall arrest assembly

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/909,316 filed Mar. 30, 2007, the subject matter of which is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to scaffold work platform systems and, more particularly, to deck structures and fall arrest mechanisms employed in such scaffold work platform systems. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     When erecting a scaffold, each level is typically completed before moving up to construct the next level. This may involve moving large quantities of scaffold equipment up hundreds of feet horizontally along a level, until that level is completed. A lead erector in a scaffold crew typically has to move along the length of a scaffold prior to installation of fall protection equipment (e.g., guard rails, gates, etc.). Many companies mandate total or 100% tie-off, meaning the erector must have the hook to his fall arrest harness attached to an anchor point 100% of the time. This can typically be accomplished by using hooks for each harness and hooking each one to an anchor point further down the scaffold run, then returning back and unhooking the first hook from the first anchor point. If the worker neglects to tie off, or ties off to an anchor point that cannot take the load imposed by a fall, the worker is vulnerable to injury. 
     A lead erector in a scaffold crew typically stands on a scaffold before the installation of any fall protection or arrest devices (e.g., guard rails, gates, etc.). Traditionally, such individuals (e.g., lead erectors) used lanyards hooks attached to fall arrest harnesses or the like to any available (and not necessarily suitable) anchor or securing point. Such anchoring points included the scaffold itself, the building adjacent to which the scaffold was typically positioned, or the like, with the intent being to use this point as a fall arrest anchor. However, buildings may not have suitable anchor points, that is, anchor points that can be accessed from the scaffold itself. Moreover, the scaffold itself is typically not designed to serve as a fall arrest anchor, anchor point, or anchor structure. 
     Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a safe yet convenient to use fall arrest anchoring assembly. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide for an assembly that can be incorporated into scaffolds themselves, providing automatic, continuous tie-off. Ideally, such a fall arrest system or assembly would provide a fall arrest anchor point that could allow tying off in advance of a lead erector climbing on a scaffold assembly, or up to a next level of the assembly. Furthermore, it would be desirable if the assembly were easy to use, for example by providing for easy installation (e.g., during engagement or disengagement of the assembly). 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, the present invention relates to a fall arrest assembly comprising a deck structure and a rail assembly in operable association with the deck structure. The rail assembly permits an individual to tie-off in a manner that permits the individual with a range of motion along the deck structure while being tied-off. The fall arrest assembly further includes a first uplift hook mechanism connected to or otherwise installed on the deck structure such that the first uplift hook mechanism is employed for both securing the deck structure to and releasing the deck structure from at least one supporting member. 
     In another aspect, a fall arrest assembly comprising a decking structure is provided. In at least some embodiments, the fall arrest assembly further includes a rail assembly in operable association with the decking structure, which permits an individual to tie-off in a manner that permits the individual with a range of motion along the deck structure. Also provided in the fall arrest assembly is a first uplift hook mechanism connectable to the decking structure for engaging to and/or disengaging from a supporting member. A plurality of deck hooks connectable to or otherwise installed on the decking structure for connecting the decking structure to the supporting member is additionally provided. The fall arrest assembly additionally comprises a deck latch assembly that is connected to the first uplift hook mechanism for facilitating connection of the deck structure to a second deck structure. 
     In yet another aspect, a method of installing a fall arrest assembly is provided. The method comprises providing (i) a deck structure; and (ii) a rail assembly in operable association with the deck structure. The method further comprises locating an anchor point on the rail assembly. The method additionally comprises climbing onto the deck structure. Further, the method comprises attaching one or more lanyard mechanisms to the anchor point on the rail assembly to provide a range of movement on the deck structure when erecting a scaffold assembly. 
     Various other aspects, objects, features and embodiments of the present invention are disclosed with reference to the following specification, including the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments of the invention are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings and are for illustrative purposes only. The invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction or the arrangement of the components illustrated in the drawings. The drawings illustrate a best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the invention. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in other various ways. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like components. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a fall arrestor assembly in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the fall arrestor assembly of  FIG. 1  in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an enlarged, bottom end view of the underside of the fall arrestor assembly of  FIG. 1  in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the fall arrestor assembly in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  shows a top view of another embodiment of the fall arrestor assembly in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  show enlarged sectional views taken along lines “A-A”, “B-B” and “C-C” of  FIG. 5 , respectively, and showing portions and specific components of the fall arrestor assembly in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  shows a top view of the fall arrestor assembly in an alternate embodiment in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8A-8E  show enlarged sectional views taken along lines “A-A”, “B-B”, “C-C”, “D-D” and an end view of  FIG. 7 , respectively, and showing portions and specific components of the fall arrestor assembly in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention; and 
         FIGS. 9A-9H  illustrate in schematic form, a step-by-step method of installing and/or using the fall arrestor assembly in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a perspective view of a fall arrest tie-off assembly  100  is shown in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. The fall arrest tie-off assembly  100  is also referred herein as a fall arrest anchor assembly, fall arrest/arrestor assembly, arrest/arrestor assembly, a work-access system, erector tie-off plank assembly, erector scaffold deck fall arrest assembly and the like. As shown, the fall arrest assembly  100  includes a deck structure  102  (also referred herein as decking, decking structure, plank and the like) having a top surface  104  and a bottom surface  106  (See  FIG. 4 ) separated by a thickness  108  and bounded by end cap portions  110  and  112 . In at least some embodiments, the top and the bottom surfaces  104  and  106 , respectively, can have a variety of longitudinal corrugations  114  for increasing the strength of the deck structure and for providing a safe walking surface for workers working on the fall arrest assembly  100 . 
     Notwithstanding the fact that the present embodiment illustrates longitudinal corrugations, in other embodiments, any type of corrugations, grilles, webs, lattices, etc. can be provided in one or both of the top and the bottom surfaces  104  and  106 , respectively. Any of the aforementioned corrugations can additionally be provided on the thickness  108  as well. Furthermore, although in some embodiments, the deck structure  102  can have a hollow core  116 , this need not always be the case. Rather, in other embodiments, the deck structure can have a solid core or any other type of core that may be deemed suitable. Additionally, the thickness  108  can vary depending upon the embodiment of the invention based upon, for example, the load handling capability requirements of the scaffold work platform system employing the fall arrest assembly  100 . 
     Further, in the present embodiment, the deck structure  102  has a length of about 10′ or 7′ and a width of about 19″ and is constructed out of aluminum (e.g., non-skid extruded aluminum). In some embodiments, when the deck structure  102  is made out of non-skid extruded aluminum, the weight of the deck structure can be about 40 lbs (pounds) when the length is about 7′ and about 50 lbs when the length is about 10′. Further, in some alternate embodiments, it has been found that the present fall arrestor assembly  100  can withstand an impact load transmitted to a harness during a fall arrest of up to about 1800 lbs. Notwithstanding the aforementioned configuration of the deck structure  102 , it is contemplated that the sizes, shapes and the load bearing/transmitting capabilities of the fall arrestor assembly  100 , including the decking structure  102  can vary without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     A plurality of deck hooks  118  are connected or otherwise installed at least partially on the end cap portions  110  and  112  of the deck structure  102 . The deck hooks  118  permit the deck structure  102  to be supported at each end by a scaffold tube or tube-like component (not shown) of the scaffold work platform system that is typically horizontally-disposed to support the deck structure in a level fashion. In at least some embodiments, the deck hooks  118  are constructed of aluminum (e.g., solid aluminum). By virtue of constructing the deck structure and the deck hooks of aluminum, a light weighted yet strong fall arrest assembly  100  is provided. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, one or both of the deck structure  102  and the deck hooks  118  can be made of any of a variety of metals, including other rigid materials such as wood. Additionally, the presence of four deck hooks  118  on the end cap portion  110  and three hooks on the end cap portion  112  in the present embodiment is merely exemplary. In other embodiments, any number of deck hooks  118  as may be deemed necessary for securely connecting the deck structure  102  to the scaffold tube can be employed. 
     In addition to the deck hooks  118 , the fall arrestor assembly  100  includes an uplift hook or hook mechanism  120  connected at least partially to the end cap  112  and the deck structure  102  for securing the fall arrestor assembly  100 , and particularly the deck structure, to the scaffold tube member. In at least some embodiments of the invention, at least two uplift hook mechanisms are included in the fall arrestor assembly  100  and positioned at opposite ends of the deck structure  102  to facilitate connection to other fall arrestor assemblies and/or decking structures. Additional details regarding the uplift hook  120  will be provided in regards with  FIGS. 2 and 3 . 
     Also provided on the deck structure  102  is a rail assembly  122  for providing a fall arrest system for ensuring the safety of the worker(s) working on the fall arrestor assembly  100 , and additionally for arresting the fall should a worker happen to fall. The rail assembly  122  includes a rail mechanism  124  disposed on and running lengthwise on the top surface  104  of the deck structure  102 . The rail assembly  120  including the rail mechanism  124  will be described in greater detail in  FIG. 2 . A traveler mechanism  117  (also referred herein as traveler, traveler car, car mechanism or traveler car mechanism) can additionally be engaged to, or otherwise fitted over or with respect to the rail mechanism  124 , in a manner well known, for moving the traveler  117  in a direction  115  with respect to the rail mechanism. 
     In at least some embodiments, the traveler  117  is in rolling engagement with the rail mechanism  124 . In other embodiments, the traveler  117  can be an anchor device constructed out of, for example, aluminum, and having ball bearings for mounting and moving the traveler on the rail mechanism  124 . Notwithstanding the fact that a particular shape, size and configuration of the traveler  117  is shown, it is nevertheless an intention of this intention to include a variety of traveler mechanisms suitable for anchoring to the rail mechanism  124  in a movable manner. 
     In at least some additional embodiments, the traveler  117  can have one or more loops  119  (also referred herein as hooks, latch, latching mechanism etc.) for attaching a safety harness (e.g., lanyard—not shown) of a worker to the traveler for arresting motion in the event of a fall of the worker. Typically, the loops  119  can be any of variety of loops that are commonly available and frequently employed in scaffold systems. Further, the positions of the loops  119  on the traveler  117  can vary. For example, in at least some embodiments, the loops can be positioned on the top surface of the traveler. In other embodiments, the loops  119  can be positioned on a side surface thereof. In yet other embodiments, multiple loops including, for example, one loop on the top surface and one loop on the side surface, can be present, as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . Additionally, the shape and size of the loops  119  can vary depending upon, for example, the shape and size of the safety harness and lanyard employed for engaging with the loops and the arrangement of the scaffold work platform system. 
     Therefore, the traveler  117  provides a mobile anchor device for serving as a latching point (e.g., via the hooks  119 ) to ensure safety of a worker. It should be understood that the terms moving, rolling, engaging, fitting, etc. are intended to have a broad interpretation and can encompass any of a variety of fit or connection means for providing easy sliding movement along the rail mechanism  124  in any direction. The rail assembly  122  additionally includes one or more stops or stop mechanisms  126  (e.g., one or more stop pins), described below, that are in operable association with (e.g., built into) the rail or rail mechanism  124  to limit removal and or travel/motion of the traveler  117  with respect to the rail mechanism. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 1  is a deck latch assembly  128  (also referred herein as latch assembly, latch, and the like) that is used for securely connecting one fall arrestor assembly  100  to another fall arrestor assembly. The deck latch assembly  128  is shown and described in greater detail with respect to  FIG. 4 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , in at least some embodiments, the deck latch assembly  128  can generally located in a center or central region of the deck structure  102  and typically connected to the uplift hook mechanism  120 . In at least some embodiments, the deck latch assembly  128  is connected to both of the uplift hook mechanisms  128 , although in other embodiments, the deck latch assembly can be connected to a single uplift hook mechanism as well. In other embodiments, the positioning of the deck latch assembly  128  can vary. For example, in at least some embodiments, the deck latch assembly  128  may be positioned at an end of the deck structure  102 . Other positions and orientations of the deck latch assembly  128  depending upon the arrangements of the scaffold assembly are contemplated and considered within the scope of the invention. 
     Notwithstanding the configurations, dimensions and profiles of the various components of the fall arrestor assembly  100  described above, it is an intention of this invention to encompass additional components including various refinements to the previously described components. For example, in other embodiments, various handle structures, support structures etc. can be provided. In alternate embodiments, components other than those described above can be present as well. Further, the shapes, sizes and numbers of the various components of the fall arrestor assembly  100  can vary to convenience. By virtue of providing the fall arrestor assembly  100  having the deck hooks  118 , the uplift hook  120  and the rail assembly  122 , the present invention advantageously provides a work platform system in which the decking structure  102  can be installed and/or removed conveniently by a single individual, called a “lead erector”. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 2 , an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the fall arrestor assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  is shown, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the fall arrestor assembly  100  includes the deck structure  102  bounded by the end cap portions  110  (See  FIG. 1 ) and  112  and further having the plurality of deck hooks  118  for securing the decking to the scaffold structure (e.g., tubular scaffold) of the scaffold work platform system. Also shown is the rail assembly  122  in operational association with the deck structure  102  and including the rail mechanism  124  and the stops or stop pin mechanism(s)  126  for limiting removal and/or travel of the traveler  117  that is in association with the rail mechanism. 
     With respect to the rail mechanism  124  in particular, it includes one or more rail, rail-like structures or possibly beams and tracks that are disposed on, or otherwise attached to, the top surface  104  of the deck structure  102  at an edge thereof. In at least some embodiments, the rail(s) of the rail mechanism  124  can be removably connected to the deck structure by any of a variety of fastening and/or engaging mechanisms in a known manner. In other embodiments, the rail mechanism  124  can be integrally formed, in a raised or a recessed portion of the deck structure itself thereby providing a rail or rail-like mechanism for receiving a traveler  117  or other movable tie-off apparatus. Additionally, in some embodiments, the rail mechanism  124  can be constructed of steel, although other metal or rigid materials can be employed as well. It should be understood that the shape, size and material of construction of the rail mechanism  124  can vary to convenience. Furthermore, the term “rail” is intended to have a broad meaning including any elongate structure to which the traveler  117  can be attached for sliding/moving along the rail. 
     Additionally, although in the present embodiment the rail mechanism  124  is shown to be disposed longitudinally (lengthwise) on the deck structure  102  at an edge thereof, in other embodiments, the orientation of the rail mechanism can vary. For example, in some embodiments, the rail mechanism  124  can be disposed horizontally along the edge of the deck structure. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the rail mechanism  124  can be disposed in a central (or substantially central) portion of the deck structure  102 . In alternate embodiments, other orientations are intended to be encompassed within the scope of the invention. Further, the rail mechanism  124  can be a separate component that is connected directly or indirectly to the deck structure by any of a variety of engaging or fastening mechanisms. Alternatively, in alternate embodiments, the rail mechanism  124  can be integrally formed with the deck structure  102 , or integrated within or with respect to the deck structure itself. 
     With respect to the structure of the rail(s) (also referred herein as rail-like mechanism, beam or track) in particular, any suitable structure with or without various channels, grooves and contours can be employed. For example, in the present embodiment, the rail mechanism  124  has first and second surfaces  123  and  125 , respectively, parallel to the top surface  104  of the deck structure  102 , the first and the second surfaces being connected by third and fourth side surfaces  127  and  129 , respectively. Further, as shown, one or both of the third and the fourth surfaces  127  and  129 , respectively, can have channels or grooves  131  for securely fastening the traveler  117  to the rail mechanism  124 . In at least some embodiments; the first and the second surfaces  123  and  125 , respectively, can also have various grooves and channels for providing various latching positions, both from above and below the deck structure  102 . By virtue of providing a rail mechanism  124  having grooves and channels, the traveler  117  can be prevented from moving in a direction transverse to the direction of the rail mechanism. An optional orifice  133  passing through at least a portion of the rail mechanism  124  can be provided in some embodiments to reduce the overall weight of the rail assembly  122 . Other components including, for example, locking mechanisms for holding the traveler  117  and the loops  119  in position can additionally be employed. Various other components can also be used in conjunction with, or as part of the rail mechanism  124  without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     Further, as indicated earlier, the stops or stop pins  126 , in accordance with at least some embodiments, move in a vertical fashion when the decking structure is placed and secured with regard to a scaffold assembly in a level horizontal fashion. In this way, the one or more of the stop pins  126  extend and/or retract to limit removal and/or motion of the traveler  117  that is in association with the rail mechanism  124 . In at least some embodiments, the stop or stop pins  126  have a default position that is in the extended (stop) position. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the traveler  117  to which a harness of an individual (e.g., a lead erector) is connected to arrest a fall, remains between to extended stop pin mechanisms  126  so as to limit the movement of a traveler car. In alternate embodiments, the one or more stops or stop pins  126  are in an extended (stop) position when the decking or plank structure  102  is not connected to or installed at a given end of the decking structure  102 . In further embodiments, the stops or stop pin mechanisms  126  automatically retract or recede into the rail, for example, below the top surface  123  of the rail mechanism  124  when another decking structure is connected to decking structure  102  in end-to-end fashion, so as to permit an installer to move out onto the next, connected decking structure. And in yet other embodiments, the one or more stops or stop pin mechanisms  126  are to extend once again in, for example, a stop position, when such a second deck is removed from its end-to-end position. 
     Turning to  FIG. 3 , an enlarged, bottom end view of the bottom surface (or underside) of the deck structure  102  showing the uplift mechanism  120  and the stop mechanism  126  (See  FIG. 2 ) in greater detail is shown in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. As shown, in at least some embodiments of the invention, the uplift hook mechanism  120  is located at a central or substantially central portion of the deck structure  102  substantially in-line with the deck latch assembly  128  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Additionally, the uplift hook mechanism  120  is positioned such that it protrudes from one end of the deck structure  102  for contacting an underside of the scaffold tube member, which as previously mentioned is typically horizontally disposed with respect to the deck structure. In at least some embodiments, the uplift hook mechanism  120  is connected to the deck structure  102  via bolts  130  passing through the uplift hook mechanism and structural element  132 . Generally, to accord stability to the uplift hook mechanism  120 , a plurality of structural elements  132  connecting the uplift hook mechanism to the deck structure  102  via the bolts  130  are present. For example, in the present embodiment, two structural elements  132  connecting the uplift hook mechanism  120  to the deck structure  102  are shown. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, more than two, or potentially a single structural element for connecting the uplift hook mechanisms to the deck structure  102  can be employed depending upon the length of the deck structure and the dimensions of the uplift hook mechanism  120 . 
     In addition, in at least some embodiments, the uplift hook mechanism  120  is spring-loaded such that the uplift hook mechanism can retract as the deck structure  102  is being installed, and once a deck structure is properly positioned, the hook mechanism can lock into place, thereby securing the decking structure to the scaffold. To enable the uplift hook mechanism to contract and retract by virtue of the spring mechanism without interference from the structural elements  132 , the uplift hook mechanism  120  is provided with slots  134  through which the structural elements are connected to the uplift hook mechanism. It can further be appreciated that although a single uplift hook mechanism  120  is shown in  FIG. 3 , multiple uplift hooks mechanisms, having similar or substantially similar configurations and orientations to the uplift hook mechanism  120  described above, can be present in other embodiments. When two such uplift hook mechanisms  120  are utilized (e.g., at each end of the deck structure  102 ), it is contemplated that the uplift hook mechanisms are both locked (e.g., in some embodiments, in an extended position) under the scaffold (e.g., scaffold header) to secure the deck structure to the scaffold. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 3  is a stop pin assembly  136 , which is used to actuate the stop mechanism  126  (See  FIGS. 1 and 2 ). The stop pin assembly  136  includes a stop pin plunger mechanism  138 , which actuates the stop pin mechanism  126  when the deck structure  102  is connected to or disassembled from another deck structure. The stop pin assembly  136  further includes a stop pin guide mechanism  140  for guiding the stop pin mechanism  126  during extension and retraction. The stop pin assembly  136  including the stop pin plunger mechanism  138  and the stop pin guide mechanism  140  is attached in operational association with the bottom surface  106  of the deck structure  102  via bracket  142  and bolt  144 . Notwithstanding the particular arrangement of the stop pin assembly  136  described above, in other embodiments, the arrangement and configuration of the various components of the stop pin assembly can vary. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 4 , an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the fall arrestor assembly  100  showing the deck latch assembly  128  including various associated components/features is shown in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. The deck latch assembly  128  comprises a latch mechanism  146 , a pair of shackle mechanisms  148 , a pull rod mechanism  150  and an axle  152 . The latch mechanism  146  includes, as shown, a recessed/slotted cam profile  154  on each of its sides so as to receive or accept pins or pin-like mechanisms  156  on one end (and for connecting) each shackle mechanism  148 . Additionally, the latch mechanism  146  is rotatable, such that when so rotated, the pins  156  in the shackle mechanisms  148  are pulled in a direction that is, as illustrated, towards the center of the decking structure  102 . The directions of movement are indicated by arrows  158  and the center of the decking structure is indicated by axis C (with dashed lines). The pull rod mechanism  150  is used to disengage the uplift hook mechanism(s)  128  (shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 ). Such engagement and disengagement of two deck structures causes the stop pin mechanisms  126  (shown, for example, in  FIG. 2 ) to extend and/or retract as previously described. Therefore, the horizontal motion of the pull rod mechanism  150  is translated into a vertical motion of the stop pin mechanisms  126  for providing a continuous run, automatic and hands-free fall erector assembly  100 . It should be understood that variations, such as the placement of the deck latch assembly  128 , can vary to convenience and such variations are contemplated and considered within the scope of the present invention. 
     Notwithstanding the fact that in some embodiments, a recessed/slotted cam profile  154  for actuation of the latch mechanism  146  is provided, in other embodiments, other means/mechanisms for actuation/retraction of the latch mechanism can be employed as well. For example, in at least some embodiments, a rotatable drum, the rotation of which produces tension in the shackle mechanism  148  and the pull rod mechanism  150  to actuate the uplift hooks mechanism(s)  128 , can be utilized. In alternate embodiments, other types of devices for actuating the uplift hooks mechanism(s)  128  can be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Additionally, the shackle mechanism  148  and the pull rod mechanism  150  can all vary in other embodiments. For example, in other embodiments, various other types of devices and structures achieving substantially similar functionality as the shackle mechanism  148  and the pull rod mechanism  150  can be utilized for extending/retracting the uplift hook mechanism(s)  128  by actuating the recessed/slotted cam profile  154  or other suitable device. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a top view of another fall arrestor assembly  160  (also called an “erector tie-off assembly”) is shown in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention.  FIGS. 6A-6C  show enlarged sectional views taken along lines “A-A”, “B-B” and “C-C” of  FIG. 5 , respectively, and showing portions and specific components of the fall arrest assembly  160 . Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6A-6C , the fall arrestor assembly  160  includes a deck or decking structure  162  having a plurality of decking or deck hook mechanisms  164  disposed on its ends that permit the assembly  160  to be supported by scaffold mechanisms (e.g., scaffold tubes). A rail assembly  166  having a rail or rail mechanism  168  runs lengthwise along the deck. As indicated earlier, any of a variety of rails, rail-like mechanisms and beams, each with or without various grooves and channels can be employed. A traveler car (not shown) can be connected to the rail  168  for moving along or on top of the rail (e.g., by rolling engagement), and a scaffold worker (e.g., lead erector) can then connect (e.g., tie-off) a safety harness to the traveler car. By virtue of connecting the traveler car to the rail mechanism  168 , the present invention provides an erector assembly that permits a wide range of movement on the deck structure  162  when building a scaffold. 
     Further, as indicated previously, the range of motion of the traveler car is only limited or constricted by one or more of the stop pin assemblies  170 . In at least some embodiments, the stop pin assemblies  170  include stop pins or stop pin mechanisms  172 , which serve to physically stop the travel car (again not shown) from moving past a given location of the stop pin, for example when, as described above, the stop pins are in an extended position. The stop pin assemblies  170  each further include an activation switch or activation switch mechanism  174 . As shown, at least in part, in  FIG. 6B , when the erector assembly  160 , and specifically the deck hooks  164  of the decking structure  162  are connected with and supported by a scaffold member  176 , activation switches  174  are used to activate or actuate the stop pin mechanisms  172 . For example, and in accordance with at least some embodiments, when so positioned, the activation switch  174  can cause the stop pin mechanism  172  to automatically retract and thus permit the traveler car to have its range of motion extended to the adjacent decking structure/assembly. Alternatively, when removed from such a position relative to scaffold support  176 , the activation mechanism  174  can be used to automatically extend the stop pin mechanism  172 , thereby limiting the range of motion of the traveler care. 
     A handle or handle mechanism  178  can also be provided in some embodiments of the present invention. In some of these embodiments having the handle, the handle can be provided in a location that is centrally-disposed on the deck structure  162 . In other embodiments, the handle  178  can be disposed on one end of the deck structure  162 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . In alternate embodiments, the position of the handle  178  can vary. The handle  178  is connected to, as shown, to a pair of uplift hooks or uplift hook mechanisms  180 , via activation cable or cables  182 . With additional reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6C , and as noted above with respect to a previous embodiment(s), rotation of the handle  178 , indicated by rotational arrows  184 , creates necessary tension on the activation cable(s)  182  to move uplift hook mechanisms  180 . Such movement provides for the securing (e.g., during assembly) or separation of (e.g., during dismantling) of the uplift hook mechanisms  180  with respect to the supporting scaffold member(s)  176 . In alternative embodiments, it is also contemplated that the handle  178  may be attached to a rotating cylinder or spool mechanism (not shown) to accomplish actuation or movement of the uplift hook mechanism(s)  180 . Advantageously, the size and location of the handle mechanism  178  and the presence of the activation switch  174  permits a single erector to accomplish this activity and, typically, in single-handed fashion. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7  an alternate embodiment of a fall arrest assembly  186  is shown in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention.  FIGS. 8A-8E  show enlarged sectional views taken along lines “A-A”, “B-B”, “C-C”, “D-D” and an end portion of  FIG. 7 , respectively, and showing portions and specific components of the fall arrest assembly  186 . Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8A-8E , the fall arrest assembly includes a deck structure  188  having a plurality of decking or deck hook mechanisms  190  disposed on its ends that permit the assembly  188  to be supported by scaffold mechanisms (e.g., scaffold tubes). The deck structure additionally includes a rail mechanism  192  that is integrally formed with the deck structure. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 8D , the rail mechanism  192  is disposed on a raised surface  194  of the deck structure  188  resulting in a deck portion  196  and a rail portion  198 . In at least some other embodiments, the surface  194  of the deck structure  188  can be formed within a recess of the deck structure such that the rail mechanism  190  is disposed on the surface  194  within the recess. Additionally, the rail mechanism  190  can run lengthwise along the deck structure  188 . Other orientations of the rail mechanism  190  are also contemplated and considered within the scope of the invention. Further, as indicated earlier, any of a variety of rails, rail-like mechanisms and beams, each with or without various grooves and channels can be employed. A traveler car (not shown) can be connected to the rail  190  for moving along or on top of the rail (e.g., by rolling engagement), and a scaffold worker (e.g., lead erector) can then connect (e.g., tie-off) a safety harness to the traveler car. By virtue of connecting the traveler car to the rail mechanism  190 , the present invention provides an erector assembly that permits a wide range of movement on the deck structure  188  when building a scaffold. 
     Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 7  and  FIGS. 8A-8E , the fall arrest assembly  186  includes one or more uplift hook mechanisms  200  that are connected to each other via handle  202  and wire/activation cable  204 . Upon activating the handle  202  by rotating in a direction illustrated by arrows  206 , the uplift hook mechanisms are activated in a direction depicted by arrows  208  to attach or release the fall arrest assembly  186  to/from other deck structures. The activation of the handle  202  and the uplift hook mechanism  200  is similar in operation to that described above with respect to  FIGS. 5 and 6A-6C . One or more stops or stop pin mechanisms  210  activated by one or more activation switches  212  can additionally be provided for use in conjunction with the rail mechanism  190  for limiting the travel of the traveler. Also shown in  FIGS. 8D and 8E  is a housing  214  for holding the various components of the fall arrest assembly  186 . Additional components described above can also be present in the fall arrest assembly  186 , with the structure and operation of those components closely mimicking the structure and operation of the components described above. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 9A-9H , installation and use of the fall arrest assembly during installation/erection of a scaffold platform is shown in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the fall arrest (or erector tie-off) assembly  100 / 160 / 186  is installed on the next level  216  above the current completed working level  218 . One or more fall arrest anchor points are located on an anchor device (e.g., traveler car) that rides along a horizontal member (e.g., rail mechanism) on the assembly. Upon moving up to the next level, the lead erector  222  attaches one of his lanyard hooks  224  to the anchor device. There are stops located at the end of each continuous run of the horizontal member (e.g., rail mechanism) that serve to prevent the device from disengaging from the horizontal member. The anchor device is designed to traverse the horizontal member from deck to deck. As additional decks are installed end to end in line with the first deck, the horizontal members of each deck can automatically align with each other and allow the anchor device and the worker  222  to traverse the entire length of the deck. In this fashion, the lead erector  222  is continuously tied off to an anchor point, even while traversing the scaffold. If an adjacent assembly is removed, a locking mechanism engages which serves to prohibit the anchor device from becoming detached or otherwise disassembled from the horizontal member at that end. As the worker or erector  222  completes each successive level, including installation of fall protection components (e.g., guard rails, gates, etc.) the assembly is disengaged from its current position and installed on the level above. It is noted that the assembly/installation process can be reversed to accomplish dismantling/disassembly. The assembly will then typically be the last component removed from each successive level and then subsequently installed at the next level down as the scaffold is dismantled. 
     Therefore, the fall arrest assembly can be installed by a first worker as follows: the first worker first picks up and installs the fall arrestor tie-off plank assembly  100 / 160 / 186  on the next level  216  above the current working/completed level  218  on which the first worker  222  is positioned, as shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9B . Then, the first worker  222  climbs up to the fall arrestor tie-off plank assembly  100 / 160 / 186  by utilizing a scaffold ladder  226 , as shown in  FIGS. 9C and 9D . A safety harness  224  (e.g., lanyard hook) of the first worker  222  is then attached to the traveler car mechanism on the rail assembly of the fall arrestor assembly  100 / 160 / 186  for providing a safe walking surface for the worker, as shown in  FIG. 9E . Subsequently a second deck structure  228  can be installed. Typically, the installation of the second deck structure after installation of the current deck structure and the fall arrestor assembly is accomplished as follows: A second worker  230  from another level (e.g., the level  218  below) hands the first worker  222  the second deck  228  as shown in  FIG. 9F . The second deck  228  is then placed end-to-end in line with the fall arrestor assembly, as shown in  FIG. 9G . By virtue of installing the second deck structure in line with the current deck structure by way of the deck hooks, the stop pin mechanism is automatically activated due to the automatic operation of the uplift mechanism, thereby allowing the first worker to move freely along the length of both deck structures while being continuously tied off, as shown in  FIG. 9H . The aforementioned steps of  FIGS. 9A-9H  are then repeated for installing additional decks. 
     Accordingly, provided herein is a hands-free, continuous run, fall arrest anchoring assembly. The assembly can be incorporated into scaffolds, providing automatic, continuous tie-off. The fall arrest system or assembly advantageously provides a fall arrest anchor point that allows tying off in advance of a lead erector climbing on a scaffold assembly and/or up to a next level of an assembly. By providing for or permitting single-handed operation, as well as other attributes that have been described or are apparent, the assembly is characterized by an ease use during, for example, both installation and dismantling of a scaffold assembly. 
     Notwithstanding the embodiments of the fall arrestor assembly  100  shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 1-6C , the present invention is intended to encompass a variety of other features, including various refinements to the existing components. For example, although deck hooks are employed in the present embodiments for connecting the deck structure  102  to the scaffold tube, in other embodiments, other types of fastening mechanism can be employed. Relatedly, any of a variety of hooks having varying configurations, shapes and sizes as may be deemed suitable for securely connecting the deck structure  102  to the scaffold member can be employed as well. For example, the size of the deck hooks, and particularly, the engaging portion of the hooks can vary depending upon the diameter of the scaffold member engaged by way of the deck hooks. In at least some embodiments, the scaffold tube can have a diameter of 1.90″ or 1.69″. In other embodiments, the diameter of the scaffold tube can vary. 
     Furthermore, the shapes, sizes, configurations, profiles and material of construction of the various components can vary to convenience. For example, the shapes and sizes of the stop pin mechanisms can vary. Notwithstanding the fact that a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical stop pin is illustrated in the FIGS. described above, it is nevertheless an intention of this invention to include various shapes of the stop pin including, geometrical and non-geometrical shapes. Similarly, the shape of the deck structure can vary. In other embodiments, a rectangular deck structure need not be employed. Rather, other shapes and sizes as may be deemed suitable depending upon the application and the space constraints for installing a scaffold work platform assembly can be employed. Relatedly, size and configuration of other components of the scaffold work platform system can vary depending upon the embodiments and based upon the application. 
     Additionally, corrosion/rust resistant coatings can be provided on various components of the fall arrestor assembly for protecting the surfaces thereof. Other types of coating/protectants can be provided as well. Further, the fall arrestor assembly with respect to being utilized in a scaffold work platform assembly can be employed in a variety of applications. For example, the scaffold assembly can be used in various events including, for example, musical/theatrical events and staging events. In other embodiments, the scaffold assembly can be employed for supporting and/or carrying a wide variety of equipment. Additionally, the fall arrestor assembly can be temporarily or permanently installed for use with, in conjunction with or as part of the scaffold assembly. Further, the fall arrest assembly need not always be employed as part of a scaffold assembly. Rather, in at least some embodiments, the fall arrest assembly can be employed for various other purposes including, for example, railway construction wherein the fall arrestor assembly can be connected to the railway tracks for the safety of workers. In alternate embodiments, the fall arrest assembly can be put to other uses as well. 
     It is specifically intended that the present invention not be limited to the embodiments and illustrations contained herein, but include modified forms of those embodiments including portions of the embodiments and combinations of elements of different embodiments as come within the scope of the following claims.