Patent Publication Number: US-10322305-B2

Title: Retracting lifeline systems for use in tie-back anchoring

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of, and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/321,491, filed Apr. 6, 2010, and U.S. Ser. No. 13/080,731, filed Apr. 6, 2011, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The following information is provided to assist the reader to understand the devices, systems and methods disclosed below and the environment in which they will typically be used. The terms used herein are not intended to be limited to any particular narrow interpretation unless clearly stated otherwise in this document. References set forth herein may facilitate understanding of the devices, systems and method or the background thereof. The disclosures of all references cited herein are incorporated by reference. 
     Many devices have been developed in an attempt to prevent or minimize injury to a worker falling from a substantial height. For example, a number of devices (known alternatively as self-retracting or retracting lifelines, retracting lanyards, fall arrest blocks, etc.) have been developed that limit a worker&#39;s free fall distance to a specified distance and limit fall arresting forces to a specified value. 
     In general, most currently available retracting lifeline safety devices or systems include a number of common components. Typically, a housing or cover provides enclosure/protection for the internally housed components. The housing includes attached thereto a connector for anchoring the retracting lifeline to either the user or to a fixed anchor point. The connector must be capable of withstanding forces required to stop a falling body of a given mass in a given distance. Components of retracting lifeline system such as the lifeline and connectors can, for example, have an ultimate tensile load or minimum breaking strength of at least 4500 pounds. 
     A drum or spool around which a lifeline is coiled or spooled rotates within the housing. The drum is typically under adequate rotational tension to reel up excess extended lifeline without hindering the mobility of the user. Like the anchor connector and the other operative components of the retractable lifeline safety device, the drum is formed to withstand forces necessary to stop a falling body of a given mass in a given distance. The lanyard or lifeline is attached at one end thereof to the drum to allow the drum to reel in excess lifeline. The lifeline is attached at the other end thereof to either the user or to an anchorage point, whichever is not already attached to the housing. 
     Retracting lifeline systems also include a mechanism which locks (that is, prevents rotation of) the drum assembly of the retracting lifeline upon indication that a fall is occurring. For example, when the rope, cable or web being pulled from the retracting lifeline system causes the drum assembly to rotate above a certain angular velocity or experience an angular acceleration above a certain level, a brake mechanism can cause the drum assembly to suddenly lock. 
     Given the forces experienced by retracting lifeline systems upon sudden locking of drum rotation, the operational components of retracting lifeline system are typically manufactured from high-strength materials such as stainless steel to ensure locking, while withstanding the stresses associated therewith. In that regard, though the fall may be stopped upon actuation of the braking mechanism of a retracting lifeline system, the suddenness of the stop may cause injury to the user or produce higher than desirable stresses in one more components of the safety system. Energy or shock absorbing devices or systems are typically used to absorb energy experienced by the retracting lifeline system and the user. 
     In a tie-back application, a lifeline of a retracting lifeline system is wrapped around an acceptable anchorage structure and is connected back onto itself (via an end connector), creating a secure anchorage for the user. In currently available retracting lifeline systems, a substantial length of a strengthened or reinforced portion of the lifeline over which tie-back is permitted is maintained outside of the housing. For example, a sleeve of a durable and/or sacrificial material can be used to encase a length of lifeline extending from the housing to enable tie-back over the length of the sleeve. The thickness and stiffness of the sleeve and/or a stitched portion in the webbing prevents the sleeve from being drawn within the housing. Although it is safe to tie back over the length of the sleeved or reinforced portion of the lifeline, there is no guarantee that a user will not tie back up-line from that portion of the lifeline over which it is safe to tie back. Moreover, the substantial length of lifeline maintained outside of the housing (for example, 36 inches or more) creates a catching, snagging and/or tripping hazard. Further, the substantial length of lifeline maintained outside of the housing can result in an undesirable length of free fall in the case that a significant portion of the length outside the housing is unused in tie back to an anchor (for example, in the case of tie back to an anchor having a relatively small circumference). 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a retracting lifeline system, includes: a housing, a first connector attached to the housing, a lifeline, and a hub to which the lifeline is attached at a first end of the lifeline and around which the lifeline is coiled within the housing. The housing includes an opening through which the lifeline exits the housing. The hub is tensioned to rotate in a first direction to cause retracting of the lifeline and coiling of the lifeline around the hub. The retracting lifeline system further includes a second connector attached to a second end of the lifeline. At least a section of the lifeline has an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and is abrasion resistant such that the section of the lifeline is available for tie-back anchoring using the second connector. The section of the lifeline is at least partially retractable within the housing. As used herein, the phrase “abrasion resistant” refers to a line or lifeline that satisfies the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard. 
     The section of the lifeline can, for example, have an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 9,000 pounds, at least 10,000 pounds or at least 12,000 pounds. 
     The entire length of the lifeline that is extendible from the housing (or the entire length of the lifeline) can, for example, have an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8,000 pounds, at least 9,000 pounds, at least 10,000 pounds or at least 12,000 pounds and be abrasion resistant (that is, satisfying the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard) such that the entire length of the lifeline that is extendible from the housing is available for tie-back anchoring. 
     In a number of embodiments, the lifeline can, for example, be formed as a continuous length of woven webbing. The webbing can, for example, have a thickness less than 0.1 inches and a width of not greater than 1.25 inches. No protective sleeve or reinforced section is required to enable tie back on the webbing. 
     The retractable lifeline system can, for example, further include an energy absorbing system positioned at least partially within the housing. The energy absorbing system includes a first retaining member and a second retaining member. The first retaining member can, for example, be connected to a connector extending from the housing so that the connector is rotatable relative to the first retaining member. The connector extending form the housing can be connected to the first connector such that the first connector is rotatable relative to the housing. The second retaining member is operatively connected to the hub. The first retaining member is connected to the second retaining member by at least one energy absorbing member that increases in effective length upon activation thereof so that the distance between the first retaining member and the second retaining member increases upon activation of the energy absorbing system. 
     The energy absorbing member can, for example, include at least a first length of material connected to a second length of material via tear elements which tear to absorb energy upon activation of the energy absorbing system. 
     The retractable lifeline system can, for example, further include at least one breakable connector connecting the first retaining member to the second retaining member. The breakable connector breaks or disconnects upon experiencing a first load such that first retaining member separates from the second retaining member by an observable distance to provide an observable indication that the first load has been experienced. 
     The energy absorbing member can, for example, be activated upon or after breaking of the breakable connector. As used herein, the terms “break”, “breakable” and like terms as used in connection with the breakable connector indicated that the connection formed by the breakable connector disconnects upon the first load such that first retaining member separates from the second retaining member. 
     Upon activation, the energy absorbing member can, for example, absorb energy to maintain a load experienced by the lifeline during activation of the energy absorbing member no greater than a predetermined magnitude. 
     The retractable lifeline system can further include an abutment member or a stop connected to the lifeline. In a number of embodiments, the stop includes at least a first member extending from at least a first surface of the lifeline to abut the opening upon retraction of the lifeline and prevent further retraction of the lifeline. The distance the first member extends from the first surface can, for example, vary to increase from a perimeter of the first member to an inward portion of the first member. 
     The stop can further include at least a second member extending from at least a second surface of the lifeline to abut the opening upon retraction and prevent further retraction of the lifeline. The distance the second member extends from the second surface can, for example, vary to increase from a perimeter of the second member to an inward portion of the second member. The first member can, for example, be connected to the second member by a connecting member passing through the lifeline. The lifeline can, for example, include or be formed as webbing. In a number of embodiments, the first member has a generally frusto-conical shape and the second member has a generally frusto-conical shape. The connecting member can, for example, include a rivet. The distance the first member extends from the first surface can, for example, be at a minimum at the perimeter of the first member, and the distance the second member extends from the second surface can, for example, be at a minimum at the perimeter of the second member. In a number of embodiments, the distance that each of the first member and the second member extends from the first and second surfaces, respectively, increases linearly from the perimeters thereof toward an inward portion thereof. 
     In another aspect, a retracting lifeline system includes a housing, a first connector attached to the housing, a lifeline, and a hub to which the lifeline is attached at a first end of the lifeline and around which the lifeline is coiled within the housing. The housing includes an opening through which the lifeline exits the housing. The hub is tensioned to rotate in a first direction to cause retracting of the lifeline and coiling of the lifeline around the hub. The retracting lifeline system further includes an energy absorbing system positioned at least partially within the housing. The energy absorbing system includes a first retaining member and a second retaining member. The first retaining is connected to a connector extending from the housing so that the connector is rotatable relative to the first retaining member. The connector extending form the housing can be connected to the first connector such that the first connector is rotatable relative to the housing. The second retaining member is operatively connected to the hub. The first retaining member is connected to the second retaining member by at least one energy absorbing member that increases in effective length upon activation thereof so that the distance between the first retaining member and the second retaining member increases upon activation of the energy absorbing system. 
     The energy absorbing member can, for example, include at least a first length of material connected to a second length of material via tear elements which tear to absorb energy upon activation of the energy absorbing system. 
     The retractable lifeline system can, for example, further include at least one breakable connector connecting the first retaining member to the second retaining member. The breakable connector breaks or disconnects upon a first load such that first retaining member separates from the second retaining member by an observable distance to provide an observable indication that the first load has been experienced. 
     The energy absorbing member can, for example, be activated upon or after breaking of the breakable connector. 
     Upon activation, the energy absorbing member can, for example, absorb energy to maintain a load experienced by the lifeline (and the end user) during activation of the energy absorbing member no greater than a predetermined magnitude. 
     At least a section of the lifeline can, for example, have an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and be abrasion resistant (that is, satisfying the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard) such that the section of the lifeline is available for tie-back anchoring using the second connector. The section of the lifeline can, for example, be at least partially retractable within the housing. 
     In a further aspect, a retracting lifeline system includes a housing, a connector attached to the housing, the connector (which can, for example, be rotatable relative to the housing), a lifeline, and a hub around which the lifeline is coiled within the housing. The housing includes an opening through which the lifeline exits the housing. The hub is tensioned to rotate in a first direction to cause coiling of the lifeline around the hub and retraction of the lifeline. The retracting lifeline system further includes a stop connected to the lifeline. The stop includes at least a first member extending from at least a first surface of the lifeline to abut the opening upon retraction and prevent further retraction of the lifeline. The distance the first member extends from the first surface can, for example, vary to increase from a perimeter of the first member to an inward portion of the first member. 
     The stop can also include at least a second member extending from at least a second surface of the lifeline to abut the opening upon retraction and prevent further retraction of the lifeline. The distance the second member extends from the second surface can, for example, vary to increase from a perimeter of the second member to an inward portion of the second member. The first member can, for example, be connected to the second member by a connecting member passing through the lifeline. The lifeline can, for example, include or be formed from webbing. The first member can, for example, have a generally frusto-conical shape, and the second member can, for example, have a generally frusto-conical shape. The connecting member can, for example, include a rivet. The stop can, for example, be formed from a metal such as stainless steel. 
     The distance the first member extends from the first surface can, for example, be at a minimum at the perimeter of the first member, and the distance the second member extends from the second surface can, for example, be at a minimum at the perimeter of the second member. In a number of embodiments, the distance that each of the first member and the second member extends from the first and second surfaces, respectively, increases linearly from the perimeters thereof toward an inward portion thereof. 
     At least a section of the lifeline can, for example, have an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and be abrasion resistant (that is, satisfying the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard) such that the section of the lifeline is available for tie-back anchoring using the second connector. The section of the lifeline can, for example, be at least partially retractable within the housing. 
     In another aspect, a retracting lifeline system includes a housing, a first connector attached to the housing, a lifeline, and a hub to which the lifeline is attached at a first end of the lifeline and around which the lifeline is coiled within the housing. The housing includes an opening through which the lifeline exits the housing. The hub is tensioned to rotate in a first direction to cause retracting of the lifeline and coiling of the lifeline around the hub. The retracting lifeline system further includes a first retaining member and a second retaining member. The first retaining is connected to a connector extending from the housing, which is connected to the first connector. The second retaining member is operatively connected to the hub. At least one breakable connector connects the first retaining member to the second retaining member. The breakable connector breaks or disconnects upon experiencing a first load such that first retaining member separates from the second retaining member by an observable distance to provide an observable indication that the first load has been experienced. 
     In a number of embodiments, the first retaining member is further connected to the second retaining member by at least one energy absorbing system that increases in effective length upon activation thereof so that the distance between the first retaining member and the second retaining member increases upon activation of the energy absorbing system. 
     In a number of embodiment, the connector extending from the housing can, for example, be rotatable relative to the first retaining member. The connector extending form the housing can, for example, be connected to the first connector such that the first connector is rotatable relative to the housing. 
     In a further aspect, a method of protecting a person in the case of a fall from a height, includes: providing a retractable lifeline system as set forth above. The retractable lifeline system can, for example, include at least a section of lifeline that has an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and be abrasion resistant (that is, satisfying the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard) such that the section of the lifeline is available for tie-back anchoring using the second connector. The section of the lifeline available for tie-back anchoring can, for example, be at least partially retractable within the housing. 
     In a further aspect, a method of operating a retractable lifeline system includes at least partially retracting a section of a lifeline within a housing of the retractable lifeline system, wherein the section of the lifeline has an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and is abrasion resistant (that is, satisfying the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard) such that the section of the lifeline is available for tie-back anchoring using a first connector attached to the lifeline. In a number of embodiments, the retractable lifeline system includes the housing; a second connector attached to the housing, the lifeline; and a hub to which the lifeline is attached at a first end of the lifeline and around which the lifeline is coiled within the housing. The housing includes an opening through which the lifeline exits the housing. The hub can, for example, be tensioned to rotate in a first direction to cause retracting of the lifeline and coiling of the lifeline around the hub. 
     The devices, systems and/or methods, along with the attributes and attendant advantages thereof, will best be appreciated and understood in view of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a retractable lifeline system. 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 1C  illustrates a perspective view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  wherein the lifeline is being extended from the housing. 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  wherein a load indicator has been activated in the case of a fall. 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  wherein the shock absorbing system has been activated. 
         FIG. 2D  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  with one side of the housing removed, wherein the load indicator has not been activated. 
         FIG. 2E  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  with one side of the housing removed wherein the load indicator has been activated and the energy absorbing system is removed from the housing but not activated. 
         FIG. 2F  illustrates two of the retractable lifeline systems of  FIG. 1A  attached to a support system wherein the energy or shock absorbing system of one of the retractable lifeline systems has been activated. 
         FIG. 2G  illustrates an enlarged perspective view that portion of shock absorbing system of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 2E  that remains fixed to the support system. 
         FIG. 2H  illustrates an enlarged perspective view that portion of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 2E  that remains fixed to the housing of the retractable lifeline system. 
         FIG. 2I  illustrates an enlarge perspective view of an opening in the housing of the retractable lifeline system with an embodiment of a lifeline stop in abutting contact with the opening. 
         FIG. 2J  illustrates a side view of the lifeline and lifeline stop. 
         FIG. 2K  illustrates a perspective view of a method of forming a passage in the lifeline using, for example, an awl to enable attachment of a stop thereto. 
         FIG. 2L  illustrates “tie back” attachment of the lifeline to an anchor (an I beam). 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  wherein the housing has been removed. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  wherein the housing has been removed and wherein the load indicator has been activated in the case of a fall. 
         FIG. 3C  illustrates a front view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  wherein the housing has been removed and wherein the energy absorbing system has been activated. 
         FIG. 3D  illustrates an example of an energy absorbing system used in  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 3E  illustrates an embodiment of an energy absorbing system used in the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  in connection with connecting shafts. 
         FIG. 3F  illustrates an embodiment of an energy absorbing system used in the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A  subsequent to forming individual loops for each of the connecting shafts. 
         FIG. 3G  illustrates a plot of force versus time in a fall study of a retractable lifeline system hereof. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective, exploded or disassembled view of the retractable lifeline system of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a front perspective view of another embodiment of a retractable lifeline support system of the present invention having a connector that is operable to connect the support system to a D ring. 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates a rear perspective view of the system of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5C  illustrates a rear view of the system of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5D  illustrates a side, partially cutaway view (along section A-A of  FIG. 5C ) of the system of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5E  illustrates a side view of the system of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5F  illustrates a cross-section view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 5A  along section B-B of  FIG. 5E . 
         FIG. 5G  illustrates a front view of the system of  FIG. 5A  wherein one of the attached retracting lifeline systems has been rotated about its central, longitudinal axis independent of the position of the other retracting lifeline system. 
         FIG. 5H  illustrates a rear, perspective exploded view of the connector of the system of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5I  illustrates a bottom, perspective exploded view of the connector of the system of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates the a front perspective view of the connector of the system of  FIG. 5A  wherein a retainer or an abutment member has been rotated out of abutment with an attachment member of the connector. 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates a front perspective view of the connector illustrating rotation of a cooperating attachment member so that a threaded portion of the cooperating attachment member moves out of operative connection with the D ring so that the connector can be removed from connection with the D ring. 
         FIG. 6C  illustrates a front perspective view of the connector wherein the connector has been disconnected from the D ring. 
         FIG. 6D  illustrates a front perspective view of the connector wherein a sliding retainer bracket has been slid to a first side to allow removal of a first attachment or retaining pin and removal of a first retracting lifeline system from connection with the connector. 
         FIG. 6E  illustrates a front perspective view of the connector and removal of the first retaining pin. 
         FIG. 6F  illustrates a front perspective view of the connector wherein the sliding retainer bracket has been slid to the second side and the second retaining pin has been removed to allow removal of a second retracting lifeline system from connection with the connector. 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a perspective view the system of  FIG. 5A  attached to a harness D ring, and illustrates the freedom of motion of each of the retracting lifeline systems attached to the connector of the system. 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates another perspective view the system of  FIG. 5A  attached to a harness D ring, and further illustrates the freedom of motion of each of the retracting lifeline systems attached to the connector of the system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a connector” includes a plurality of such connectors and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth, and reference to “the connector” is a reference to one or more such connectors and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. 
       FIGS. 1A through 5G  illustrate an embodiment of a self-retracting or retracting lifeline system  10 . A housing or cover  20  can, for example, be formed in two halves  20   a  and  20   b  (see, for example,  FIG. 4 ) as known in the art and serves to protect internal mechanisms of retracting lifeline system  10  from damage. In general, however, housing  20  does not otherwise significantly affect the operation of such internal mechanisms. Retracting lifeline system  10  can, for example, be connected via a swiveling and/or rotating connector  30  to, for example, a harness  400  via a dual lifeline system support  220  as illustrated in  FIGS. 5A through 7B . Alternatively, connector  30  can be replaced by or connected to another connector such as a carabiner or snap hook as known the art, which can be connected to the user (for example, to D ring  410 ). In such embodiments, a distal end  42  of a lifeline or lanyard  40 , which retractably extends from housing  20  (and formed, for example, a polymeric web material), is attached to some fixed object or anchor via, for example, a connector such as snap hook  600 . In other embodiments, distal end  42  of lifeline or lanyard  40  is connected to a harness  400  worn by the user and connector  30  and/or other connector(s) is connected to a fixed anchor. 
     As illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 2L , retracting lifeline system  10  can be used in a “tie-back” application. In a tie-back application, lifeline  40  of the retracting lifeline system  10  is wrapped around an acceptable anchorage structure, such as I-beam  700 , a pipe, a concrete column etc. Snap hook  600  is connected back onto lifeline  40 , creating a secure anchorage for the user. As illustrated in  FIG. 2L , snap hook  600  can be connected to lifeline  40  in a choking fashion. The user ensures that lifeline  40  is captured in snap hook  600  and the gate of snap hook  600  is completely closed, locked, and not obstructed in any way. By enabling tie-back, retracting lifeline system  10  provides a connecting device with a readily adaptable anchorage connector, lowering the overall cost and simplifying use. In that regard, the end user does not have to buy and install a separate, dedicated anchorage connector. Moreover, retracting lifeline system  10  provides more flexibility as to where a user can anchor the user&#39;s personal fall arrest or retracting lifeline system (as compared to systems in which tying back is not possible). Snap hook  600  can alternatively be connected directly to a suitable anchorage. 
     Overhead anchorage is typically recommended. However, in certain circumstances, lifeline  40  can be anchored below the harness back D-ring  410 . Fall clearance should be calculated from the anchor point when anchoring below the harness back D-ring  410  and the distance between the anchor and harness D-ring  410  must be added into the calculation as known in the art. See, for example, Calculating Fall Clearance Distance in the Miller Self-Retracting Lifelines &amp; Fall Limiters instruction manual available from Sperian Fall Protection, Inc. of Franklin, Pa. 
     Unlike currently available retracting lifeline systems, a user can tie back at generally any position along lifeline  40 . Also unlike such currently available retracting lifeline systems, at least a portion of lifeline  40  over which tie-back can occur is retractable onto drum assembly  100  (see  FIG. 4 , which is discussed below) of retracting lifeline system  40 . In a number of embodiments, lifeline  40  is, for example, formed from a heavy-duty, cut-resistant, abrasion-resistant webbing which exhibits an ultimate tensile load or minimum breaking strength (that is, the measure load at failure) suitable for fall protection in tie-back applications over the entire length thereof. Likewise, lifeline  40  is sufficiently abrasion resistant over its entire length to enable tie-back connections. As some abrasion and associated decrease in ultimate tensile load may result from tie-back connections, increased initial (that is, prior to abrasion) ultimate tensile load is desirable for lifeline  40  (as compared to lifelines not used in tie-back applications). In general, webbing and synthetic rope lifeline materials for use in retracting lifeline systems in the United States of America is typically required to exhibit an ultimate tensile load or minimum breaking strength of 4,500 lbs. (20kN). See ANSI Z359.1-1992 Standard Sections 3.2.8.5.1 and 3.2.8.5.2. In several embodiments of lifeline  40 , lifeline  40  has an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds, at least 9,000 pounds, at least 10,000 pounds, at least 12,000 pounds or even higher (as determined in a static pull test as known in the art). 
     Suitable initial ultimate tensile load and cut-resistance and/or abrasion resistance in lifeline  40  enables connection or tying back directly to lifeline  40  at any position thereon in a choking fashion, eliminating the need of a thick protective sleeve or extension that cannot be wound around a drum assembly and/or drawn within a housing. As discussed above, as used herein, “abrasion resistant” is defined as being in compliance with the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard (see, for example, sections 3.2.6 and 4.1.9 through 4.1.12). The ANSI/ASSE Z359.13 2009 standard incorporates Federal Test Method STD. No. 191A, Method 5309, Abrasion Resistance of Textile Webbing. Those standards are provided as appendices to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/321,491. 
     Lifeline  40  provides the strength, abrasion and cut resistance necessary for tie-back applications, and yet is sufficiently flexible to retract back into a properly sized housing  20  using standard tensioning mechanisms such as a steel coil spring. In a number of embodiments, in addition to the retraction tension required to retract the weight of lifeline  40  (including the attached connector), the retraction tension on lifeline  40  is not less than 1.25 pounds (0.6 kg) nor more than 25 pounds (11.4 kg) at any point in the range of motion provided by the line. ANSI/ASSE Z359.1 1992 Section 3.2.8.6. In several embodiments, the retraction tension was not less than 1.5 and not more than 8 pounds or not less than 1.5 pounds and not more than 5 pounds. 
     In a number of embodiments, webbing lifelines developed for use in retracting lifeline system  10  were woven from at least two fiber materials to include an interior (referring to the general position in the woven webbing) of a high strength or high tenacity fiber material and an exterior of an abrasion resistant material. The high strength or high tenacity fibers can, for example, have a breaking tenacity of at least 20 grams per denier (g/den). In a number of embodiments, the high strength or high tenacity fibers have a breaking tenacity between approximately 20 g/den and approximately 35 g/den. Examples of suitable high strength or high tenacity fiber materials include VECTRAN™ fibers (high strength, liquid crystalline aromatic polyesters), available from Kuraray America, Inc. of Houston, Texas, SPECTRA® fibers (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene material) available from Honeywell of Virginia, USA, KEVLAR® fibers (para-aramid synthetic fibers) available from E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company of Wilmington, Del. USA (or other aramid fiber material) or DYNEEMA® fibers (an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene material) available from DSM Dyneema of Geleen, The Netherlands. In a number of embodiments, the high strength or high tenacity material also exhibits relatively low elongation. In a number of embodiments, the elongation at break of the high strength or high tenacity fibers was in the range of 2.4 to 3.7%. Use of denser high strength or high tenacity fibers (for example, KEVLAR® and VECTRAN® fibers are denser than SPECTRA® and DYNEEMA® fibers) results in a thinner webbing. 
     As described above, in a number of such embodiments, the webbing lifeline further includes an exterior (referring once again, to the general position in the woven webbing) of an abrasion resistant material such as spun yarns or spun polymeric fibers. Many different abrasion resistant spun yarns can be used. The abrasion resistant yarns or fibers can also provide cut resistance. In a number of embodiments, spun polyester fibers were used as the abrasion resistant material. The material forming the exterior of the webbing can also, for example, provide UV protection for the inner, high strength material. An example of a material developed for use herein is webbing product no. K2197 available from Technical Textiles of Charlotte, N.C., which includes a weave of high-strength VECTRAN fibers and spun polyester fibers as described above to produce a lifeline having an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and abrasion resistance as defined above. 
     The interior, high strength fiber can, for example, be of a first color and at least a portion the exterior, abrasion resistant fiber can be of a second, different color. The interior, high strength fiber can, for example, be chosen or formed to be white, and at least a portion of the exterior, abrasion resistant fiber can be black. In this manner, abrasion resulting in damage of the exterior portion can be apparent as the differently colored interior portion will become visible. 
     In the case of a number of materials, some abrasion on the outside edges of lifeline  40  will not significantly adversely affect the performance of lifeline  40 . As, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 2L , a certain width WS on each lateral side (which can be the same or a different width for each lateral side or be constant or varying over the length of lifeline  40 ) of the exterior of lifeline  40  can be formed (for example, via coloring of the exterior fibers) to have generally the same or similar color to the color (for example, white) of the interior fibers, thereby forming edge “striping”  40   a  and a central section  40   b,  which has a color (for example, black) substantially different from the color of the interior fibers. In this manner, abrasion resulting in exposure of the interior fibers on the edges of lifeline  40  (within width WS of striping sections  40   a ), which does not significantly adversely affect the performance of lifeline  40  (even in tie-back applications) need not be apparent to the user. However, abrasion resulting in exposure of the interior fibers within or extending within central section  40   b,  which can significantly adversely affect the performance of lifeline  40 , will be readily apparent to the user. 
     The size and weight of retracting lifeline housing  20  are considerations in designing retracting lifeline system  10 . Users can, for example, wear one or more of retracting lifeline systems  10  for eight hours or more. Excessive fatigue or discomfort associated with overly large or heavy retracting lifeline systems can lead to injury or to lack of compliance in usage retracting lifeline systems. The width, thickness and length of lifeline  40  affect the size and weight of drum assembly  100  and thereby other components of retracting lifeline system  10 , including housing  20 . 
     In a number of embodiments, lifeline webbing has a width W (see  FIG. 2K ) of no greater than approximately 1.25 or no greater than approximately 1.00 inches and a thickness T of no greater than approximately 0.125 inches, 0.1 inches, 0.09 inches or 0.075 inches. In several embodiments, lifeline  40  was formed from VECTRAN fibers and spun polyester fibers as described above to have a width W of approximately 1.00 inch, a thickness T of approximately 0.075 inches, and an initial ultimate tensile load of at least approximately 9,000 pounds or at least 10,000 pounds. 
     The length of lifeline  40  can, for example, be in the range of 4 to 12 feet. Other lengths are also possible. In several embodiments, the length of lifeline  40  was between approximately 4.5 feet and 8 feet. Such ranges of length of lifeline  40  provide length for tie-back around a wide range of anchorages, for movement and for fall arrest, while providing a reasonable size and weight for housing  20  and the components therein. 
     Although tie-back can be effected at any position along lifeline  40 , and lifeline  40  can be fully retracted within housing  20 , a length or portion of lifeline  40  can, for example, be provided or maintained exterior to housing  20 . Maintaining a length of lifeline  40  exterior to housing  20  enables the user to, for example, readily connect snap hook  600  (or other connector) to a connector  610  (see  FIGS. 7A and 7B  on a front portion of safety harness  400  (or other safety harness) to provide ready access thereto. Moreover, maintaining a length of lifeline  40  outside of housing  20  enables reduction in the size and weight of drum assembly  100 , housing  20  etc. A length L (see  FIG. 7B ) from a point where a stop  44  stops lifeline  40  from retracting within housing  20  to a point at the distal end of snap hook  600  (or other connector) can, for example, be 24 inches or less as set forth in ANSI Standard Z359.1-1992 Section 3.2.8.6. In several embodiments, length L was approximately 20 inches. Such a length L extending from housing  20  can, for example, provide easy access to snap hook  600  and lifeline  40  without creating a snagging and/or tripping hazard. 
     As illustrated, for example, in  FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2F, and 2I  though  2 L, in several embodiments, stop  44  can, for example, have a relatively low and/or gradually changing or sloping profile. As illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 2I , stop  44  operates to abut opening  22  in housing  20  through which lifeline  40  passes to prevent further retraction. In the illustrated embodiment, stop  44  is formed in two generally identical sections or halves  45 . Each section  45 , includes a sloped or ramped portion  46  in which the thickness (that is, the distance each section  45  extends from a surface of lifeline  40 ) of section  45  increases linearly (from a minimum) at the outer perimeter as the radius decreases (that is, traveling toward an inner portion thereof). In other words, the thickness is at a minimum at a perimeter of stop  44  and increases toward the center of stop  44  to a thickness of at least the width of opening  22 . In the illustrated embodiment, each section  45  also includes generally central section  48  of a generally constant width (thereby, providing a generally frusto-conical shape). The thickness of each section of the stop can also vary in a curved or curvilinear manner. 
     A connector such as rivet  49  (which can, for example, form central section  48 ) passes through each section  45  and lifeline  40 , sandwiching lifeline  40  between each section  45  to retain stop  44  in connection with lifeline  40 . To prevent excessive damage to lifeline  40 , in forming an opening to enable passage of rivet  49  therethrough, an awl A (see  FIG. 2K ) or other tapered instrument was, for example, used to spread the fibers of lifeline  40  while minimizing damage thereto. As illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 1A , this process results in some bulging  43  of the sides of lifeline  40  in the vicinity of stop  44 . The inventors have discovered that a passage for rivet  49  or another connector formed in such a manner (unlike cutting, boring or other techniques in which significant fiber damage occurs) results in insignificant weakening of lifeline  40 . 
     Unlike prior stops (for example, a section of lifeline stitched back on itself to create an area of increased width), the low profile and/or sloped surfaces of stop  44 , prevent catching or interference of stop  44  with anchors such as I beams or other anchors, which can interfere with, for example, tie-back installation. Stop  44  can, for example, be formed from a durable material such as a metal. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates components of retracting lifeline system  10  in a disassembled state. A number of components rotate relative to a frame member  50  (which includes extending sections  52 ) about a shaft  70 . In several embodiments, frame member  50  and shaft  70  were formed, for example, from a metal such as stainless steel. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 4 , frame member  50  (and extending sections  52 ) are formed integrally as part of a U shaped length of metal (for example, stainless steel). Shaft  70  rotates within shaft bushings  80  that are seated within holes or passages  54  formed in sections  52  of frame member  50 . A flanged retainer or connector  90  (for example, a threaded connector) cooperates with a seating  72  (for example, a threaded seating) formed within shaft  70  to retain shaft  70  in rotatable connection with bushings  80 . 
     A hub or drum assembly  100  of system  10  includes a first hub flange or hub plate  110 , a hub or drum  120  around which lifeline  40  (for example, webbing) is coiled, a second hub flange  140 , and connectors such as screws  150 . In several embodiments, hub plate  110  and hub flange  140  were formed from a metal such as aluminum or stainless steel, while hub  120  was formed from a deformable polymeric material as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211847. When assembled, hub plate  110 , hub  120 , hub flange  140 , and screws  150  form hub or drum assembly  100  which rotates on shaft  70 . A loop end of lifeline  40  is positioned with a passage  123  formed within hub  120  around shaft  70  to anchor the loop end of lifeline  40  securely within drum assembly  100 . The loop end extends through a slot  121  formed in hub  120  and a portion of lifeline  40  is coiled around hub  120 , leaving a free end which extends from housing  20 . 
     Shaft  70  is rotationally locked to hub plate  110  via a catch or braking base  112  (formed, for example, from a metal such as case stainless steel) that is connected to hub plate  110  by screws  150 . In that regard, braking base  112  includes a passage  113  formed therein through which shaft  70  passes and a radially inward projecting member  114  which engages a radially outward portion of slot  76  of shaft  70 . Tension is applied to drum assembly  100  to retract lifeline  40  after extension thereof via a power spring assembly  160  including coiled strap of spring steel inside a plastic housing formed by housing members  168 . A radially outward end  163  of spring steel strap can be anchored to frame  50 . A radially inward end  163 ′ can engage a radially inward, narrow portion of slot  76  in shaft  70 . One housing member  168  of power spring assembly  160  can, for example, be rotationally locked to frame member  50  by a projecting member or stud  164  on housing member  168  which engages frame  50 . As described above, lifeline web  40  is anchored to and coiled around hub  120  of drum assembly  100 . At assembly, power spring  162  is “wound up” to provide torque to shaft  70  and thus to drum assembly  100 . The torque applied to shaft  70  pre-tensions lifeline  40  and causes lifeline  40  to coil up or retract around hub  120  after it has been uncoiled therefrom. 
     Retracting lifeline system  10  also includes a braking mechanism  105 . Retracting lifeline system  10  can, for example, include a braking mechanism as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211848. In that regard, a catch  190  (formed, for example, from a metal such as cast stainless steel) is pivotably or rotatably mounted (eccentric to the axis of shaft  70 ) to catch base  112  via a partially threaded pivot member  180  which passes through a passage  192  formed in catch  190  to connect to a threaded passage  116  on catch base  112 . The axis of threaded pivot member  180  (and passage  192 ) preferably corresponds approximately or generally to the center of mass of catch  190 . In that regard, pivot member  180  is preferably positioned in the vicinity of the center of mass of catch  190  and preferably as close to the center of mass as possible. Braking mechanism  105  can also include a catch spring  200  having one end which engages a connector  117  (for example, a loop or passage) of catch base  112  and another end which engages a connector  194  (for example, a loop or passage) of catch  190 . The force exerted by the catch spring  200  is generally balanced against the rotational inertia of catch  190  so that catch  190  actuates (via centrifugal force) to effect braking only when lifeline web  40  is being pulled from retracting lifeline system  10  at an acceleration rate corresponding, for example, to the beginning of a fall (as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211848). For example, catch  190  and catch spring  200  can be readily designed (using engineering principles known to those skilled in the art) to actuate when lifeline  40  is being pulled out at a certain determined acceleration (for example, ½ or ¾ times the acceleration of gravity). For lower accelerations or when the user is extending the web at a constant rate, such as when walking, catch  190  will not actuate and hub assembly  100  will turn freely. 
     The center of mass of catch  190  is located generally where it pivots or rotates on pivot member  180 . Catch  190  will thus maintain its position relative to hub assembly  100 , while hub assembly  100  is rotating at a constant angular velocity as when lifeline  40  is being pulled out of retracting lifeline system  10  at a constant rate. That is, catch  190  and catch base  112 /hub assembly  100  will rotate as a unit and centrifugal force will not cause catch  190  to rotate about pivot member  180  relative to catch base  112 /hub assembly  100 . However, if hub assembly  100  experiences a clockwise (in the orientation of  FIG. 4 ) angular acceleration (as is the case when lifeline  40  is being pulled out of retracting lifeline system  10  at an increasing rate) sufficiently high for the rotational inertia of catch  190  to overcome the force of catch spring  200 , catch  190  will rotate about pivot member  180  in a second direction (counterclockwise in the illustrated embodiment) relative to catch base  112 /hub assembly  100 . 
     When catch  190  is rotated counterclockwise about pivot member  180  relative to hub assembly  100 , an abutment section, stop section or corner  195  of catch  190  extends radially outward (because catch pivot  180  is not concentric with shaft  70 ). In this case, abutment section  195  of catch  190  will abut or catch an abutment member of a stop or abutment member  51  of frame  50 . Catch  190  cannot rotate in a counterclockwise direction because of abutment of shaft  70  with an end of curved slot or opening  193  of catch  190 . As a result the contact of abutment section  195  with frame  50  and the abutment of slot  193  with shaft  70 , the rotation of hub assembly  100  is brought to a halt. 
     When the user has relaxed the tension on lifeline  40  to allow hub assembly  100  to retract lifeline  40  a short distance, hub assembly  100  rotates counterclockwise (as a result of the tensioning force of tensioning mechanism  160 ), and abutment section  195  of catch  190  moves away from abutment with frame  50 . Catch  190  then rotates (as a result of the biasing force of catch spring  200 ) about the axis of pivot member  180  clockwise relative to hub assembly  100 . At this point, hub assembly  100  is now free to rotate again. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, screws  150  are passed through passages  118  in catch base  112 , passages  111  in hub plate  110 , through passages  122  in hub  120  and through passages  142  in hub flange  140  to retain drum assembly  100  and catch base  112  in operative connection. 
     Hub  120  can, for example, be molded from an integral piece of a polymeric material such as, for example, copolymer polypropylene. As described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211847, hub  120  includes a peripheral or perimeter member  124  which forms the outer surface or perimeter of hub  120 . Lifeline  40  is coiled around peripheral or perimeter member  124  which facilitates smooth coiling and uncoiling of lifeline  40  therearound when lifeline  40  extends and retracts during normal, non-locked use. As also described U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211847, hub  120  also included an intermediate connector such as a septum  126  extending between peripheral member  124  and a radially inward or generally central portion  128  of hub  120 . The thickness and/or other properties of septum  126  enable adjusting or determining the energy absorption afforded by hub  120  using defined engineering principles as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211847. 
     In the case of a fall, at the instant that drum assembly  100  has locked and tension in lifeline  40  is rapidly increasing, coils of lifeline  40  constrict around hub  120 . At a certain tension level, determined, for example, in large part by the thickness of septum  126 , hub  120  will begin to crush as a result of the radial forces acting upon it. Deformation of hub  120  absorbs energy. Generally central portion or flange connecting portion  128  of hub  120  (around passage  123 ) remains substantially or completely undeformed to facilitate rotation of hub or drum assembly  100  after energy absorbing deformation of at least a portion of hub  120 . 
     Retracting lifeline system  10  further includes a shock or energy absorbing system  800  to further absorb energy in the case of a fall. In many cases, lifelines of retracting lifeline system include an energy absorbing system at a distal end of the lifeline thereof. However, because lifeline  40  is used in tie-back applications, an energy absorbing system positioned at the distal end thereof can become isolated from the remainder of system  10  upon tie-back and thus become inoperative to absorb energy. 
     Energy absorbing system  800  is in operative connection with housing  20 . In a number of embodiments, energy absorbing system  800  includes, for example, at least one element which effectively lengthens (for example, via deformation, breakage, tearing etc.) while absorbing energy during a fall by the user of retracting lifeline system  10 . In the illustrated embodiment (see, for example,  FIGS. 3A through 3C ), energy absorbing system  800  includes a section or sections of webbing  810  that is/are woven, sewn or stitched together (see  FIG. 3B ) as known in the fall protection arts. In the case of a fall, weaving or stitching  812  (see  FIG. 3B ) of webbing  810  breaks or tears to absorb energy as webbing  810  effectively lengthens to an extended state as illustrated in  FIG. 3C . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, extending, energy absorbing section or webbing  810  is connected to (or forms a part of) a first retaining member or bracket  820 , which is in operative connection with and provides a base for connector  30 , and to a second retaining member or bracket  840  which is connected to (or forms a part of), for example, frame  50  to be operatively connected to hub assembly  100  and lifeline  40 . In the illustrated embodiment, webbing  810  is formed in a loop which extends around a first shaft  822  connected to first retaining member  820  and around a second shaft  842  connected to second retaining member  820  (see, for example,  FIGS. 3E and 3F ). 
     As, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 4 , first retaining member  820  can, for example, be formed as a generally U-shaped bracket, which can, for example, be formed monolithically from a single piece or length of metal such as stainless steel. First shaft  822  passes through holes or passages  824  formed in extending members  826  to connect to first retaining member  820 . Second retaining member  840  includes spaced extending members  884 , which extend from frame  50 . Frame  50  and extending members  824  can, for example, be formed monolithically from a single piece or length of metal (for example, stainless steel). Second shaft  842  passes through holes or passages  846  formed in extending members  844 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, first retaining member  820  and second retaining member  840  are connected or attached in a manner to provide a load indicator. That is, an observable change, associated with disconnection of first retaining member  820  from second retaining member  840  and relevant movement thereof, occurs when retracting lifeline system  10  experiences a first load, which can be less than or equal to a second load experienced in a fall situation, but is nonetheless of sufficient magnitude that retracting lifeline system  10  should undergo at least a thorough inspection. In the illustrated embodiment, extending members  826  of first retaining member  820  are spaced slightly wider than extending members  844  of second retaining member  840  to extend therearound. Extending members  826  include holes or passages  828  which are aligned with holes or passages  848  formed in extending members  844  so that shear pins  850  or other breakable or disconnectible connectors can be passed therethrough to connect extending members  826  with extending members  844 . In the illustrated embodiment, two shear pins  850  are illustrated. However, a single shear pin which extends to pass through passages  828  and passages  848  on both sides of first retaining member  820  and second retaining member  840  can be used. 
     During use of retracting lanyard system  10 , forces on lifeline  40  are passed via drum assembly  100 , shaft  70  and frame  50  to pins  850 . Under a load of a magnitude of the first load described above, pins  850  will shear, and first retaining member  820  will separate from second retaining member  840 . First load can, for example, be in the range of approximately 450 to approximately 650 lbs. In a number of embodiments, first load was approximately 600 lbs. The load indicator can, for example, actuate under a load of sufficient magnitude that damage to system  10  can occur (such that system  10  should be taken out of surface for at least inspection). However, the magnitude of value of the first load should not be so low that the load indicator activates under normal loads experienced in normal use. The state of activation of the load indicator after system  10  experiences the first load is illustrated in  FIGS. 2B and 3B . First retaining member  820  is connected to a housing section  26  that separates from the remainder of housing  20  (which otherwise remains intact) in the state of  FIGS. 2B and 3B . Even if the load is not of sufficient magnitude that weaving or stitching  812  in webbing  810  tears, first retaining member  820  and second retaining member  840  will separate by a distance defined by the length of the loop of webbing  810  as shortened by weaving or stitching  812 . The separation and corresponding change in appearance of system  10  provides a clear indication that a load equal to or exceeding the first load has been experienced. 
     Each housing section  20   a  of housing  20  can, for example, be formed (for example, molded) monolithically from a polymeric material such as a high-impact nylon. Housing section  26  can, for example, be formed (for example, molded) from the same or similar polymeric material as housing section  20   a  of housing  20  and can, for example, for a snap fit with housing sections  20   a  when assembled. In general, the load indicator operates independently of housing  20 . Although housing section  26  separates with retaining member  820  upon the occurrence of the first load, the magnitude of the first load is determined by pins  850  in connection with first retaining member  820  and second retaining member  840 . In that regard, loads required to deform and/or break polymeric materials are typically too low or too unpredictable. Use of breaking or shearing members such as metallic shear pins  850  provides substantial control over and tuning of the load required to activate the load indicator. 
     After breaking of shear pins  850 , weaving or stitching  812  can tear, absorbing energy, and the loop of webbing  810  will expand or extend to the state illustrated in  FIGS. 2C and 3C . In a number of embodiments, energy absorbing system  800  was designed so that force in lifeline  40  did not exceed 900 pounds in a fall.  FIG. 3G  provides a plot of force in lifeline  40  (that is, the force experienced by an end user) over time in a fall study. As seen in  FIG. 3G , when the force reaches approximately 600 pounds at point x, shear pins  850  break and the force drops to approximately 0. As force rapidly increases, weaving or stitching  812  of energy absorbing system  800  begins to tear and the force is maintained less than 900 pounds over a region y as energy absorbing system  800  absorbs a portion of the energy of the fall. 
     As second loop of a webbing  816  or other material (having an ultimate load greater than webbing  810 ) can also extend around shafts  822  and  842  to ensure that connector  30  remains connected to frame  50  and lifeline  40 . Webbing  815  can, for example, have an ultimate tensile load of at least 4500 pound or at least 5000 pounds. Other types of energy absorbing systems in which, for example, a length of a material such as a metal is uncoiled and/or torn (see, for example, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/1094366) or one or more friction elements is/are pulled through a constriction can be used. 
     First retaining member  820  includes a passage  830  in an upper (in the orientation of  FIG. 4 ) section thereof which spans between extending members  826 . A post or pivot member  860  of connector  30  passes through passage  830  and through a passage  27  formed in housing section  26  to connect to clevis loop or clevis  31  of connector  30  via a connecting member  862  which passes through passages  32  formed in clevis  31  of connector  30  and a passage  864  formed in post member  860  to connect clevis  31  to post member  860 . Pivot member  860  is rotatable within passages  830  and  27  to provide rotation of retracting lanyard system  10  about and axis A as illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 5A . Washers or bushings  832  and  34  can be provided to facilitate rotation of pivot member  860 . Clevis  31  is pivotably connected to post or pivot member  860  via connecting member, pin or shaft  862  to provide for rotation or pivoting of housing  20  relative to clevis  31  about axis A 1  as illustrated in  FIG. 5A  and described further below. 
     A spacer  868  (for example, a polymeric annular member) can be provided at the lower (in the orientation of  FIG. 4 ) end to space rotating pivot member  860  from webbing  812  and/or webbing  816  during normal operation of retracting lifeline system  10  (that is, in the state illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 3A , in which the load indicator has not been activated). In that regard, rotation of pivot member  860  can eventually cause wear or damage of such webbing if pivot member  860  were in contact therewith. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 3D through 3F  (in which a portion of energy absorbing system  800  is illustrated), in a number embodiments, two sections of a tear webbing  810  were connected with tear element  812 , leaving an intermediate open, or unconnected section  814 . In a number of embodiments, natural polyester tear web available from Sturges Manufacturing Company, Inc. of Utica, N.Y., Unites States of America was used in which open section  814  was approximately 2.7 inches in length and the stitched or woven sections on each side thereof were approximately 4.25 inches in length. See U.S. Patent Application Publication 2008/0179136. In a number of studies, section  814  was looped around first shaft  822  and second shaft  842  as illustrated in  FIG. 3E . It was discovered, however, that such an arrangement could result in incorrect operation of energy absorbing system  800 . In that regard, only one side of tear elements  812  might tear or disconnect at one time, resulting in insufficient energy absorption in the case of a load associated with a fall. It was discovered that if intermediate section were sewn with stitching  813  to form two loops  816  (as illustrated in  FIG. 3F ) in which first shaft  822  and second shaft  842  were placed, even tearing of each side of tear elements  812  would result in the case of a load associated with a fall. Stitching (or other connections)  813  remains intact through a fall as, for example, there is little or no load on stitching  813  to cause it to tear. 
     The operative connection of connector  30  with first retaining member  820  facilitates the attachment of one or more retracting lifeline systems into the support systems disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211849.  FIGS. 5A through 7B  illustrates an embodiment a support system  210  for placing multiple retracting lifeline systems  10  (and/or other devices/systems) in operative association with a person. Support system  210  and similar systems are, for example, described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211849. In the illustrated embodiment, two retracting lifeline systems  10  are attachable to support system  210 . As described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0211849, support system  210  includes a connector  214  including, for example, a rigid member such as a frame  220  (for example, formed from a metal such as stainless steel) and an extending member such as a pin or other element  240  which can be placed in removable or selective operative connection D ring  410  of harness  400  (see, for example,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). In the illustrated embodiment, pin  240  is movably or slidably positioned between a front frame member  220   a  and a rear frame member  220   b  of frame  220 . 
     Frame  220  further includes a space or slot  222  formed in an upper surface  220   c  thereof, which is in communicative connection with the space between front frame member  220   a  and rear frame member  220   b.  As illustrated, for example, in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , D ring  410  can be inserted within slot  222 . As illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 5F , pin  240  can be passed through the opening in D ring  410  to retain connector  214  in operative connection with D ring  410 . 
     In several embodiments, at least two independent actions are required of a user to remove connector  214  from operative connection with D ring  410 . In the illustrated embodiment, one must first rotate an abutment element or catch lever  260  about a pivot element  262  (for example, a rivet) to remove catch lever  260  from abutting contact with a forward end of an attachment element such as a pin, shaft or rod  240 . Abutment element  260  can, for example, be rotated approximately 45 degrees to move it out of abutment with attachment element or pin  240  and to allow clearance for attachment pin  240  to slide, move or retract within the space between front frame member  220   a  and rear frame member  220   b  of frame  220 . In the illustrated embodiment, attachment pin  240  is movably or slidably retained within a passage or hole  224  formed in forward frame member  220   a  of frame  220 . Contact elements such as pins  226  (positioned within passages  228  formed in front frame member  220   a ) extend into passage  224  to cooperate with slots  244  formed along a portion of the length of attachment pin  240 . Cooperation of pins  226  with slots  244  prevents attachment pin  240  from being removed from operative connection with frame member  240  and prevents rotation of attachment pin  240  relative to (and between) front frame member  220   a  and rear frame member  220   b,  while allowing attachment pin  240  to slide between front frame member  220   a  and rear frame member  220   b.    
     In the illustrated embodiment, attachment pin  240  is formed generally as a cylinder having a generally central passage  246 . The inner wall of passage  246  includes threading (not shown) over at least a portion thereof to form a threaded engagement with threading  248  of a rod, shaft or bolt  250 . Bolt  250  passes through a passage or hole  230  formed in front frame member  220   a  to enter the space between front frame member  220   a  and rear frame member  220   b  and engage attachment pin  240 . A grasping member, such as a knurled knob  252 , can be provided to facilitate grasping and rotation of bolt  250 . In that regard, after moving catch lever  260  out of contact with attachment pin  240 , knob  252  is rotated (for example, counterclockwise) until threading  248  of bolt  250  disengages cooperating threading of attachment pin  240  and attachment pin  240  is free to move independently of bolt  250 . At this point, attachment pin  240  can be slid forward (for example, under the force of gravity upon tilting of connector  214 ) until it is suitably clear of connection with D Ring  410  so that D ring  410  can be removed from slot  222 . 
     The process described above for removal of D ring  410  is reversed to connect D ring  410  to connector  214 . In that regard, D-Ring  410  in inserted into slot  222  until D-Ring moves past or clear of attachment pin  240 . Attachment pin  240  is then slid rearward to pass through the center hole in D-Ring  410 . While holding attachment pin  240  to both maintain its position through the center hole of D-Ring  410  and abut bolt  250 , knob  252  is rotated (for example, clockwise) so that threading  248  engages the threading in passage  246  of attachment pin  240 . Upon hand tightening, attachment pin  240  is fully engaged. After engaging attachment pin  240 , catch lever  260  is rotated into engagement with attachment pin  240 . In several embodiments, the distal end of catch lever  260  includes a U shaped bracket  264  that contact frame  220  to provide an indication to the user that catch lever  260  is in the engaged position. Bracket  264  can be dimensioned so that the legs thereof must be forced outward to engage frame  220 , thereby reducing the likelihood that catch lever will be accidentally disengaged from abutting contact with attachment pin  240 . A detent element  266  can also be provided to assist in maintaining catch lever in an engaged state. Once catch lever  260  is in abutting contact with attachment pin  240 , attachment pin  240  cannot slide forward to a disengaged position. 
     To attach or remove retracting lifeline systems  10  (and/or other elements such as safety devices) to connector  214  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 5A through 7B , one first rotates catch lever  260  to allow clearance for attachment pin  240  to retract as described above. Knob  252  is then rotated until attachment pin  240  is disengaged from and free to move independently of bolt or shaft  250 . Attachment pin  240  is then slid forward until generally clear of slot  222 . 
     Connector  214  further includes a retainer such as a sliding retainer or bracket  270  that is slidably positioned on frame  220 . In the illustrated embodiment, bracket  270  is generally U shaped including a front member  270   a  and a rear member  270   b  connected over a central portion thereof by a lower member  270   c.  Bracket  270  further includes tabs  272  extending from the top of front member  270   a  and rear member  270   b  thereof to at least partially encompass frame  220 . Tabs  272  can include downward extending sections  272   a  that form a detent engagement with seatings or passages to assist in maintaining bracket  270  in a first or detent position as further described below. During assembly, shaft or bolt  250  passes through a passage  274  formed in rear surface  270   b  of bracket  270  before knob  252  is attached thereto. The attachment of shaft or bolt  250  and knob  252  assists in retaining bracket  270  in operative connection with frame  220 . As, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 5H , passage  230  is elongated so that knob  252 , bolt  250  and bracket  270  can be slid relative to frame member  240  over a range of positions (as described further below) limited by the width of passage  230 . 
     Once attachment pin  240  is disengaged form bolt  250  and slid forward to be generally clear of slot  222  (and out of engagement with passage  230  of retainer bracket  270 ) as described above, bracket  270  can be slid to one side out of the first, detent position and to a second position (for example, to the right as illustrated in  FIG. 6D ). In that regard, bracket  270  is slid to the right (in the illustrated orientation) until a first device attachment pin or rod  280  is clear to be removed through relatively larger openings  276   a  formed in front surface or members  270   a  and  270   b  of sliding bracket  270 . In that regard, openings  276   a  are in communicative connection with slots  276   b  that have a width that is smaller than the width of openings  276   a.  When bracket  270  is in the first or detent position (as, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 6C ), slots  276   b  of front member  270   a  and rear member  270   b  engage areas of reduce diameter or seatings  282  formed in device attachment pin  280  to retain device attachment pin  280  in operative connection with bracket  270  and frame  220  (via passages  234 ). Likewise, when bracket  270  is in the first or detent position, slots  277   b  of front member  270   a  and rear member  270   b  engage areas of reduce diameter or seatings  286  formed in a second device attachment pin  284  to retain device attachment pin  284  in operative connection with bracket  270  and frame  220  (via passages  236 ). 
     Once bracket  270  is slid to the second position illustrated in  FIG. 6D , device attachment pin  280  can be removed and set aside as illustrated in  FIG. 6E . At this point, device attachment bushing  288  is placed into retracting lifeline clevis  31  (see,  FIGS. 4 and 5F ) until generally flush. While maintaining attachment bushing  288  within clevis  31 , attachment bushing  288  is slid into the space between front frame member  220   a  and rear frame member  220   b  of frame  220  and align passages  276   a  and passages  234 . Device attachment pin  280  is passed through passages  276   a,  passages  234  and through a central passage or hole in attachment bushing  288 . Once device attachment pin  280  is so engaged and protrudes generally equally to the front and to the rear of rigid member  220 , device attachment bracket  270  can be slid to it&#39;s first, neutral or detent position, thereby engaging both seatings  282  of device attachment pin  280  with keyhole slots  276   b  to capture device attachment pin  276   b.    
     To attach another retracting lifeline system  10  (or other elements) to connector  214 , the above process is repeated, but device attachment or retainer bracket  270  is slid in the opposite direction (that is, to the left) to a third position as illustrated in  FIG. 6F  to first enable removal of a second device attachment pin  284  through passages  277   a  and passages  234 . After attaching a second retracting lifeline system  10  via pin  284 , bracket  270  is slid to the first, neutral or detent position so that keyhole slots  277   b  engage seatings  286  in device attachment pin  284 . At this point, attachment pin  240  can be engaged with bolt or shaft  250  as described above, and catch lever  260  can be place in abutting engagement with attachment pin  240 . 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  are indicative of the range of motion provided by system  210 , which is substantially greater than the range of motion provide by systems  10 . As described above, in the embodiment of  FIGS. 5A through 7B , connector  214  attaches to, for example, back D-Ring  410  of harness  400  via single attachment pin  240 . In the illustrated embodiment, connector  214  allows each attached device (retracing lifeline system  10  in the illustrated embodiment) to rotate approximately 90 degrees about axes A 2  (see  FIG. 5A ) as defined by attachment pins  280  and  284 . Inherent to connectors  30  of retracting lifeline system  10 , housing  20  of each retracting lifeline system  10  is able to pivot approximately 150 degrees about axes A 1  (that is, about connector, shaft or pin  862  and relative to connector  30  and to frame  220 ) and rotate 360 degrees about longitudinal axes A (relative to connector  30  and to frame  220 ) (see  FIG. 5A ). As, for example, represented by arrows F in  FIG. 5A  and illustrated in  FIG. 7A , the connection between connector  214  and the harness D Ring  410  in one embodiment allows approximately 30 degrees of motion (rotation of connector  214 , generally about pin  240 , in the plane defined by D ring  410 ), for example, aid in alignment with anchor point(s). More or less rotation about D ring  410  can be provided. Furthermore, as represented by arrows D in  FIG. 5A , inherent to the motion of D-Ring  410  relative to harness  400 , D-Ring  410  and system  210  are able to rotate (generally about an axis defined by transverse member  412  as illustrated in  FIG. 5A ) approximately 150 degrees relative to harness  400  (compare  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). 
     As illustrated, for example, in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the freedom of motion of retracting lifeline systems  10  relative to connector  214 /frame  220  (as well as the freedom of movement of D ring  410  and connector  214  relative to safety harness  400 ), allow housings  20  to be free to move (independently) toward or into alignment with the orientations their respective lifelines  40 , which exits housings  20  at exit  22  formed in housings  20  (see, for example,  FIG. 2G ). Bends in lifelines  40  at exits  22  of housings  20 , which can detrimentally make extension of lifeline  40  difficult, hinder automatic retraction of lifeline  40  and allow extra slack in lifeline  40 , can be minimized or avoided. 
     In the embodiments set forth above, lateral pivoting of retracting lifeline systems  10  occurs about the axes of extending members or attachment pins  280  and  284 . As clear to one skilled in the art, however, lateral pivoting or rotation of the retracting lifeline housing can be provided by or inherent in a connector of the retracting lifeline system (similar to the rotation provided about axes A 1  and A), and such a connector can be fixed or immovably attached to a connector similar to connector  214 . 
     By encompassing a portion of D ring  410  within connector  214 , the fall clearance is reduced as compared to, for example, embodiments in which such a connector is attached to a D ring via an intervening connector or attachment element. The vertical (in, for example, the orientation of  FIG. 5F ) position of attachment pin  240  relative to device attachment pins  280  and  284  determines the distance which retracting lifeline system  10  will be spaced from harness  400  and the person wearing harness  400 . As illustrated in, for example,  FIG. 5F  device attachment pins  280  and  284  are generally vertically aligned with attachment pin  240 , resulting in retracting lifeline system  10  being spaced a distance from harness  400  which is less than a resulting spacing distance if a retracting lifeline system  10  and had been connected to D ring  410  via an intervening connector such as a snap hook as is common in the art. Device attachment pins  280  and  284  can, for example, be positioned on frame  240  equidistant from attachment pin  244  to provide balance. 
     Uninterrupted tie off (where by a tie-back operation or otherwise) is provided with a wide range of movement for a worker either using both retracting lifeline system  10  during a transition from one anchor point to another, or when using a single retracting lifeline or retracting lifeline system with a single anchor point. Although a wide range of motion is provided, the two devices (for example, retracting lifeline system  10 ) attached to connector  214  are kept separate and are somewhat restricted in their interaction to reduce the possibility of interference. In that regard, retracing lifeline systems  10  can, for example, be prevented from pivoting toward each other (about attachment pins  280  and  284 ) by an abutment of frame  220  with retracting lifeline system connector  30 . 
     The foregoing description and accompanying drawings set forth the preferred embodiments of the invention at the present time. Various modifications, additions and alternative designs will, of course, become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing teachings without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is indicated by the following claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes and variations that fall within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.