User instructions for quick links that are fitted on individual equipment providing protection against falls from heights (EN 362) or which are used in mountaineering and rock climbing (EN 12275)
• The user must check before every use that the nut is correctly and completely screwed onto the bolt with the appropriate tightening torque: no thread must be showing.
• Only persons who are suitably trained and qualified may use the equipment; furthermore, a rescue plan must be put in place to respond to all emergencies that could arise while the equipment is being used.
• In accordance with standard EN 362, a Quick Link should be employed only for connections that are infrequently opened and closed.
• Users should take account of the length of the Quick Link if it is to be used with a fall-stop system where it will affect the height of the fall (e.g. if it is used with equipment complying with standards EN 355 or EN 360 or EN 353-1/2). Ensure that the device or anchoring point is always correctly positioned and that work is carried out in such a way to reduce the fall height and the risk of falls to a minimum. Check that there is free space beneath the user in order to avoid any collision with obstacles that may be obstructing the fall trajectory.
• Users should ensure that their medical conditions do not affect their safety during normal use of the equipment or in case of an emergency. In case of doubt, users should consult their doctor.
• Quick Links must be stored in a dry place. In case of contact with water, or after cleaning with water and air-drying, the threads should be lightly oiled.
• Any modifications to a Quick Link (or assembly with other components) must be approved by the manufacturer.
• Do not exceed loads recommended by the manufacturer and engraved on the product. It is recommended that individual Quick Links be used by only one person.
• Check the compatibility of all elements in order to avoid any dangers likely to arise through the use of several items: ensure that no element's safety functions are affected or compromised by the safety functions of any other element.
• Check that the anchoring point has a minimum strength of 10 kN and allows the Quick Link to be used in compliance with the recommendations of these instructions (particularly regarding the direction of tension) and the breaking loads laid down in the standard. It is recommended that the anchoring point be situated above the user.
• In case of resale, the Quick Link should be accompanied by these instructions in the language of the destination country.
• The lifetime of a Quick Link (and how quickly it ages) depends on how it is used.
• Quick Links should be carefully checked at regular intervals by a qualified individual in strict compliance with these instructions. Visual checks (for corrosion, wearing, deformation, etc.) and functional checks (of threads, etc.) should be carried out at least once a year, along with checks for mark legibility. Extreme temperatures and the effects of chemical reagents, cuts and abrasions are all factors that could affect the performance of the equipment. Care should be taken during use, transport and storage.
• If a Quick Link fitted on an item of equipment has served its purpose in stopping a fall, it must be replaced by a new Quick Link. If you are in any doubt about the safety of a Quick Link after having checked it, destroy it and replace it with a new one.
 
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