ASTM F887-23

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F887 − 23
Standard Specifications for
Personal Climbing Equipment
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F887; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
Table of Contents
Section/
Table of Contents Section Title
Paragraph
Section/
Section Title
Guarantee and Rejection 27
Paragraph
Keywords 28
Scope 1
Referenced Documents 2
1.1 This standard covers the specifications and qualification
Terminology 3
testing of the following:
Significance and Use 4
Pole and Tree Climbers
Climbers,
Classification 5
Climber straps,
Ordering Information 6
Climber Pads,
Pole and Tree Climbers 7
Climber Gaffs 8 Climber Footplates,
Climber Straps 9
Body Belts,
Climber Pads 10
Work Positioning Devices with Locking Snaphooks/
Climber Footplates 11
Body Belts, Positioning Devices and Wood Pole Fall Carabiners,
Restriction Devices (WPFRD)
Wood Pole Fall Restriction Devices (WPFRD),
Classification 12
Arborist Saddle,
Ordering Information 13
Two Dee Body Belts, Auxiliary Positioning Belts, and 14
Harnesses,
Four Dee Body Belts
Energy Absorbing Lanyards.
Two Dee Body Belts 14.1
These devices are used by workers in the climbing of poles,
Auxiliary Positioning Belts and Four Dee Body Belts 14.2
Positioning Devices 15
trees, towers, and other structures. Minimum performance
Wood Pole Fall Restriction Device (WPFRD) 16
criteria for harnesses and energy absorbing lanyards in arrest-
Arborist Saddle 17
Harnesses ing a fall after exposure to electric arcs are included for
Classification 18
workers who may be exposed to thermal hazards of momentary
Ordering Information 18.2
electric arcs or flame.
Sizing 18.3
Marking 18.4
1.2 Equipment may fall within one of the following catego-
Energy Absorbing Lanyards
Classification 19 ries:
Ordering Information 20
1.2.1 Fall (Travel) Restraint—Prevents a user from reaching
Energy Absorbing Lanyards 21
a fall hazard (allow 0 fall distance).
Qualification Testing
After Exposure to an Electric Arc 22
1.2.2 Work Positioning—Allows a 2 ft maximum free fall
Hardware Requirements 23
distance.
Test Equipment 24
Qualification Testing 25
1.2.3 Fall Arrest—Allows a 6 ft maximum free fall distance
Body Belts, Four Dee Body Belts, and Auxiliary 25.1
with a maximum arrest force of 1800 lb.
Positioning Belts
Positioning Devices 25.2
NOTE 1—Under certain conditions and with the use of equipment
WPFRD 25.3
designed for such conditions, a 12-ft free-fall distance with a maximum
Arborist Saddle 25.4
Harness 25.5
arrest force of 1800 lb is allowed.
Energy Absorbers 25.6
1.2.4 Suspension—Allows 0 free-fall distance while sup-
Instructions 26
porting the user’s weight.
1.2.5 Fall Restriction—to prevent or limit free fall from a
work position or while ascending/descending a wood pole.
This standard is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F18 on Electrical
Protective Equipment for Workers and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
1.3 Three types of climbers, (Types A, B, and C) and two
F18.15 on Worker Personal Equipment.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2023. Published December 2023. Originally
types of climber straps, Types (A and B) are covered.
approved in 1984. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as F887 – 20. DOI:
10.1520/F0887-23. 1.4 Two types of body belts, (Types A and B) are covered.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F887 − 23
1.5 Eight types of work positioning devices: three position- Z359.14-2021 Safety Requirements for Self-Retracting De-
ing straps, (Types A, B, and C), three adjustable-positioning vices for Personal Fall Arrest and Rescue Systems
lanyards, (Types A, B and C) and two nonadjustable position-
2.4 CSA Standard:
ing lanyards, (Types A and B) are covered.
CAN/CSA 015 Wood Utility Poles and Reinforcing Stubs
1.6 Two types of WPFRD, (Types A and AB) are covered.
3. Terminology
1.7 Arborist saddle, (Type A) Work Positioning and Suspen-
3.1 Definitions:
sion are covered.
3.1.1 adjustable positioning lanyard (APL), n—a compo-
1.8 Two types of harnesses, (Types A and B) are covered.
nent of a work positioning or fall restriction system (may be
1.9 Two types of energy absorbing lanyards, (Types A and
used for applications such as transitioning past an obstruction
B) are covered.
during ascent or descent).
1.10 The values stated in United States customary units are
3.1.2 afterflame, n—persistent flaming of a material after the
to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are ignition source has been removed.
mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
3.1.2.1 Discussion—In arc testing, a visible flaming on or
information only and are not considered standard.
near a test specimen which persists after the arc exposure has
ended. The afterflame ceases when flaming is no longer visible.
1.11 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to
the test method portions, 9.2, 10.3, 11.2, 14.1.4, 15.3, 15.4,
3.1.3 afterflame time, n—Refer to Terminology F819 for
16.2, 17.2, 18.4, 21.2, 22, 23, and 25 of this standard: This
definition.
standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
3.1.3.1 Discussion—In arc testing, the length of time, in
if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
seconds, for which a specimen continues to exhibit a visible
of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and
flaming as determined by a time display video recording of the
environmental practices and determine the applicability of
specimen during arc testing.
regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1.4 arborist saddle, n—an arrangement of straps, fittings
1.12 This international standard was developed in accor-
and buckles or other elements in the form of a waist belt with
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
a low attachment suitably arranged to support the body in a
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
sitting position. The saddle may or may not include individual
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
leg straps or a rigid batten seat section.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
3.1.5 arc gap, n—Refer to Terminology F819 for definition.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1.6 attachment element, n—part or parts of an assembly
intended for the load bearing connection of other components.
2. Referenced Documents
3.1.7 attachment point, n—specific connecting point on an
2.1 ASTM Standards:
assembly for load bearing connection to other components,
F819 Terminology Relating to Electrical Protective Equip-
consisting of one or more attachment elements.
ment for Workers
F1959/F1959M Test Method for Determining the Arc Rating 3.1.8 auxiliary positioning belt, n—a modular device made
of Materials for Clothing up of straps, pads, buckles, and attachment points for fastening
3 to a waist body belt.
2.2 ANSI Standard:
3.1.8.1 Discussion—An auxiliary positioning belt is used
ANSI 05.1 Wood Poles – Specification and Dimensions
for attachment to a two ring body belt and intended for work
2.3 ANSI/ASSE/ASSP Standards:
positioning or fall restriction while transitioning past obstruc-
Z359.0-2018 Definitions and Nomenclature Used for Fall
tions during an ascent or descent and for support for a two ring
Protection and Fall Arrest
body belt.
Z359.3-2019 Safety Requirements for Lanyards and Posi-
3.1.9 billet, n—the free (buckle hole) end of a belt or strap
tioning Lanyards
as opposed to the buckle end, which is designed to pass
Z359.11-2021 Safety Requirements for Full Body Harnesses
through the buckle for closing.
Z359.12-2019 Connecting Components for Personal Fall
3.1.10 body belt (two or four dee), n—an element of a work
Arrest Systems
positioning system with two or four connection points consist-
Z359.13-2013 Personal Energy Absorbers and Energy Ab-
ing of straps, pads, buckles, and rings that allow a user to work
sorbing Lanyards
freely with both hands (see Fig. 1).
3.1.10.1 Discussion—The width of the back section of a
body belt is directly related to and can vary dependent on the
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
number of dee rings that will be accommodated, for example,
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on two dee rings, four dee rings, or more.
the ASTM website.
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
4 5
Available from the American National Standards Institute, ANSI, 25 W. 43rd Available from Canadian Standards Association (CSA), 178 Rexdale Blvd.,
St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036. Toronto, ON M9W 1R3, Canada, http://www.csagroup.org.
F887 − 23
FIG. 1 Dee Ring Configurations for 4 Dee Body Belts
3.1.11 body belt attachment, n—a system of straps and 3.1.22 fall restraint, n—a fall protection system which
buckles which allow the harness wearer to use a body belt in prevents the user from falling any distance.
conjunction with the harness. 3.1.22.1 Discussion—Fall restraint systems prevent the user
from falling any distance while performing work tasks on a
3.1.12 climber, n—device used to assist in ascending and
horizontal surface.
descending wood poles or trees. Climbers generally consist of
leg iron, gaff, sleeves, straps, and pads. 3.1.23 fall restriction, n—the act of preventing or limiting
free fall from a work position, or while ascending or descend-
3.1.13 dee-ring, D-ring, n—an element which allows for
ing a wood pole.
attaching a connecting device such as a carabiner or snaphook.
3.1.24 fastening and adjusting element, n—devices that
3.1.14 design test, n—for F887 applicable fall protection
enable an assembly to be fastened and allow adjustment to be
equipment, a test conducted on a sample or group of samples to
made to meet sizing requirements of the user.
represent how the design of product will perform during use.
Design tests are used to qualify new products or revisions to 3.1.25 full body harness, n—a component with a design of
existing product to this standard and are not required for each straps which is fastened about the person in a manner so as to
production batch as long as the design remains unchanged with contain the torso and distribute the fall arrest forces over at
respect to strength, function or performance. least the upper thighs, pelvis, chest, and shoulders with means
for attaching it to other components or sub-systems.
3.1.15 distorted, v—Refer to Terminology F819 for defini-
tion. 3.1.26 gaff, n—a component of a pole or tree climber
attached to the climber shank, similar to a spur, which is
3.1.16 dripping, n—as related to the burning of a textile,
shaped to permit the secure penetration of the pole or tree
liquefied material that separates and falls from a textile.
trunk.
3.1.16.1 Discussion—in electric arc testing of fall protec-
tion equipment or devices, a material response evidenced by 3.1.27 gate/keeper, n—a component of the snaphook/
flowing of the fiber polymer, the fabric, or the fabric coating, carabiner, that locks the snaphook/carabiner in a closed posi-
and the evidence of droplets from the material, that character- tion by a spring and a separate locking mechanism (see Fig. 2).
izes overall performance relative to reducing the transfer of
3.1.27.1 Discussion—The gate/keeper is the closing mecha-
heat that is sufficient to cause a second-degree burn.
nism on the open end of the snaphook/carabiner which
3.1.17 electric arc ignition, n—as related to electric arc
prevents the snaphook/carabiner from inadvertently opening up
exposure, a response that causes the ignition of the material
during use in an elevated workplace.
which is accompanied by heat and light, and then subsequent
3.1.28 hardware, connectors, n—attaching components
burning (see 22.6.1).
used to couple components of a fall protection system together.
3.1.18 electrode, n—Refer to Terminology F819 for defini- 3.1.28.1 Discussion—Hardware, connectors may be inde-
tion. pendent components of a system or may be integral elements of
a component, hybrid component, subsystem or system used for
3.1.19 element, n—an integral part of a constituent,
fall protection.
component, hybrid component, sub-system or system.
(Webbing, attachments and fittings are examples of elements.) 3.1.29 leg iron, n—a component of a pole or tree climber.
The base or frame of the climber consisting of a shank and
3.1.20 energy absorbing lanyard, n—a lanyard containing a
stirrup section. (see Fig. 3 for illustration of a leg iron with
component whose primary function is to dissipate energy and
attached gaff and sleeve).
limit deceleration forces which the system imposes on the body
during fall arrest. 3.1.30 length adjusting device (LAD), n—a device that
provides the means to adjust the effective length of a lanyard.
3.1.21 fall arrest, n—the action or event of stopping a free
fall or the instant where the downward free fall has been 3.1.31 load bearing component or assembly, or both, n—a
stopped. (See ANSI/ASSP Z359.0-2018.) component (such as webbing, adjuster, ring, buckle, etc.) or
F887 − 23
FIG. 2 Components of Positioning Strap
FIG. 3 Critical Stress Area of the Climber
assembly on which load is transmitted during a fall or under 3.1.33 locking snaphook, n—a snaphook with a locking
normal use supporting the user’s weight. mechanism (see 3.1.32).
3.1.31.1 Discussion—The definition above only covers load
3.1.34 melting, n—the liquefaction of material under the
bearing assemblies. Examples of assemblies or components
influence of heat.
that are excluded and are not required to meet the load bearing
3.1.35 nose, n—the end of the snaphook which the gate/
component requirements include plastic buckles to adjust leg
keeper rests on. It overlaps the gate/keeper latch in such a
pad height, tool loops, etc.
manner as to prevent the dee-ring from inadvertently releasing
3.1.32 locking mechanism, n—a component of the snaphook
the snaphook (see Fig. 2).
used in conjunction with the gate/keeper to retain the gate/
keeper in a closed position until intentionally released and 3.1.36 part (body belt), load-bearing, n—a part of the body
opened. A snaphook thus equipped, becomes a “locking belt or work positioning strap that, when in use with both
snaphook.” snaphook/carabiner of the work positioning strap engaged in
F887 − 23
one dee-ring of the body belt, will be required to support all or 3.1.45.1 Discussion—Primary positioning devices are used
part of the mass of the user. This includes all the material in the in work positioning as the support member between primary
work positioning strap, and, in the case of the body belt, the dee rings or connection points on a body belt to maintain a user
material to which the dee-rings are directly fastened, and the in the hands free work position.
material of the buckle strap that passes across the wearer’s
3.1.46 secondary dee ring, D-ring (body belt),
abdomen.
n—connection point on each side of the body belt, used to
3.1.36.1 Discussion—This definition and the strength re-
maintain fall protection while transitioning above/below ob-
quirements described in 15.3.2 are designed to ensure that the
stacles (see Fig. 1).
buckle strap is strong enough to withstand certain emergency
3.1.46.1 Discussion—Secondary dee rings are used on each
conditions, but are not to be construed as approval of attaching
side of the four dee ring body belt in a stacked or tandem
both snaphooks to the same dee-ring when working aloft.
position at the discretion of the user or using company’s work
OSHA Subpart M (1926.502) prohibits working with two
practice.
load-bearing snaphooks in the same dee-ring unless snaphooks
3.1.47 secondary positioning device, n—a flexible line of
are of the locking type and designed for such application.
rope or webbing that utilizes a connecting link at both ends and
3.1.37 part, load bearing, (Type A and B harness), n—a
may include an adjustable length device for transitioning or
component of a harness to which arrest forces are directly
traversing obstacles.
transmitted in the event of a fall.
3.1.47.1 Discussion—Secondary work positioning devices
3.1.38 part, load bearing, (positioning/restrict/suspension),
are a component of a climbing system used to maintain fall
n—a component of the unit to which body weight forces are protection when transitioning over/under obstacles.
directly transmitted in the event of a fall.
3.1.48 stirrup, climber, n—the footrest of the pole or tree
3.1.39 permanent deformation, n—a deformation occurring climber.
beyond the yield point so that the structure will not return to its
3.1.49 stirrup, snaphook/dee-ring, n—the closed rectangu-
original dimensions after removal of the applied force.
lar portion of the work positioning strap snaphook, or body belt
3.1.40 positioning lanyard, n—a component of a climbing
dee-ring (see Fig. 2 and Fig. 5), that accepts the strap or belt
system consisting of a flexible line of rope or webbing material in a permanent manner.
generally with a connecting link at each end and may incor-
3.1.50 suspension, n—the act of supporting a user’s body
porate a length adjusting device to allow for adjustability.
weight, including equipment, for the purpose of accessing a
3.1.41 protector, gaff, n—a cap or guard designed to cover
work location with one or two points of contact.
the points of pole or tree gaffs to protect the gaffs from damage,
3.1.51 wood pole fall restriction device (WPFRD), n—a
from injuring people or from damaging equipment.
device that when properly adjusted and combined with other
3.1.42 positioning, n—the act of supporting the user’s body subcomponents and elements, allows the climber to remain at
with a work positioning system for the purpose of working
his or her work position with both hands free, and that
with hands free.
performs a fall restriction function if the climber loses contact
between his or her gaffs and the pole.
3.1.43 positioning system, n—a combination of work posi-
3.1.51.1 Discussion—Warning—Units are not tested on
tioning equipment defined by this standard intended for use in
trees or structures other than wood poles and it is up to the end
supporting a user in a work position on an elevated vertical
user to do an evaluation for compatibility to use on such
surface with both hands free (i.e. climber, body belt or arborist
structures. There are devices present on the market that are
saddle, WPFRD & APL etc.)
specifically designed for trees.
3.1.44 primary dee-ring (body belt), n—main connection
3.1.52 work positioning, n—the act of supporting the body
point on each side of the body belt.
with a positioning system for the purpose of working with
3.1.44.1 Discussion—Primary dee rings serve as the con-
hands free. (See ANSI/ASSP Z359.0-2018.)
nection point used to maintain a user in a hands free work
position (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 4).
4. Significance and Use
3.1.45 primary positioning device, n—a flexible line of rope
or webbing that utilizes a connecting link at both ends and may 4.1 The following personal tools or equipment covered by
include an adjustable length device. this standard are:
FIG. 4 Body Belt Nomenclature
F887 − 23
4.5.1 For this type of protective equipment, it is common
practice and the responsibility of the manufacturer to provide
instructions regarding proper use, care and maintenance of the
equipment and for the user’s employer to provide training in
and procedures for the safe use of such equipment.
POLE AND TREE CLIMBERS
5. Classification
5.1 Climbers covered under this standard shall be desig-
nated as Type A, B, or C, as follows:
FIG. 5 Typical Body Belt Dee-Ring
5.1.1 Type A—Fixed length, non-adjustable, with perma-
nently attached gaffs.
5.1.2 Type B—Adjustable length, with permanently attached
4.1.1 Climbers and climber straps used to ascend and
gaffs.
descend poles and trees.
5.1.3 Type C—Adjustable length, with replaceable and in-
4.1.2 Body belts and positioning devices utilized for work
terchangeable gaffs.
positioning on poles, ladders, or structures.
5.2 Climber straps covered under this standard shall be
4.1.3 WPFRD and adjustable positioning lanyards are used
designated as Type A or B, as follows:
as components of a work positioning and fall restriction system
5.2.1 Type A—One-piece straps that pass through the loops
and utilized in conjunction with a body belt.
or rings on climbers and buckle one end to the other.
4.1.4 Arborist saddle is intended for work positioning and
5.2.2 Type B—Two-piece ankle or bottom straps made so
suspension (ascent and descent) primarily in trees. The arborist
that each section can be attached to the climber ring, leaving
saddle is not intended for use in fall arrest (see Fig. 6).
the buckle end free to engage with the free billet end of the
4.1.5 Full body harnesses and energy absorbing lanyards
other piece.
utilized in preventing and arresting falls.
4.2 Test methods included in this standard are intended to
6. Ordering Information
provide uniform test procedures.
6.1 Orders for equipment under this standard shall include
4.3 Snaphooks and carabiners utilized in fall protection
the following information:
systems.
6.1.1 Nomenclature,
4.3.1 All products being marked as meeting the require-
6.1.2 Type,
ments of this standard shall utilize locking snaphooks or
6.1.3 Material,
carabiners in accordance with Section 23. Locking snaphooks
6.1.4 Size, and
and carabiners are designed to prevent rollout from occurring
6.1.5 Gaff type (pole or tree).
while being able to be operated with one hand during use.
6.2 The listing of equipment, types, and sizes is not intended
4.4 Illustrations are furnished only to amplify the text. They
to mean that all shall necessarily be available from the
are not to be considered restrictive as to specific design details,
manufacturer; this listing signifies only that, if made, the
except where so stated.
equipment, types, and sizes shall conform to the details of this
standard.
4.5 Except for the restrictions set forth in this standard
because of design limitations, the use and maintenance of this
equipment is beyond the scope of the standard. 7. Pole and Tree Climbers
7.1 Sizes:
7.1.1 Type A shall be available in sizes from 14 in. to 22 in.
(355.6 mm to 558.8 mm) in ⁄2 in. (12.7 mm) graduations.
7.1.2 Types B and C shall be available with the size
adjustment capability of 14 ⁄4 in. to 21 in. (374.7 mm to
533.4 mm) by increments of ⁄4 in. (6.4 mm).
7.1.3 Adjustable climbers shall be equipped with positive
locking, length-adjusting sections that can be double locked
securely to the leg iron, permitting full compliance with
standards established for fixed length climbers.
7.2 Materials and Properties—Leg irons manufactured uti-
lizing quality alloy steel, aluminum or titanium alloys shall
meet the performance requirements of this standard. SAE
4140, SAE 8630 and SAE 8640 steel alloys with quenched and
tempered structure, 2014 T6 aluminum alloy and Ti6AL4V
FIG. 6 Arborist Saddles, Shown in Typical Suspension Applica-
tions titanium alloy are commonly used.
F887 − 23
TABLE 1 Typical Material Properties for Climbers
tion through any part of the climber shall not exceed 0.100 in.
For Fixed Gaff For Replaceable (2.5 mm) excluding measurement error after removal of the
A
Climbers Gaff Climbers
load (see Fig. 7).
Steel:
7.6.1.2 Fatigue Test—When tested at room temperature
A
Elongation in 2 in. (5 cm), min 14 % 14 %
A (approx. 68 °F (20 °C)), the climber as a minimum shall
Hardness 23 to 38 HRC 32 to 40 HRC
B B
243 to 353 HB 300 to 375 HB withstand without failure 100 000 cycles of a 300 lb (1334.5 N)
A
Yield strength, min, psi (MPa) 118 000 (815) 130 000 (895)
load. The load must be applied parallel to the shank at the
Aluminum:
center of the stirrup section with sleeve in position. The
Elongation in 2 in. (5 cm), min . 10 %
B
Hardness . 125 to 140 HB climber equipped with a pole gaff shall be held in the climbing
Yield Strength, min, psi (MPa) . 65 000 (450)
position by the gaff and at the top of the climber with the
Titanium:
longest sleeve manufactured extended to provide maximum
Elongation in 2 in. (5 cm), min . 10 %
Hardness . 30 to 40 HRC
length. The gaff must be supported by a rigid surface so that the
B
286 to 371 HB
gaff will not penetrate the support. Failure shall be considered
Yield Strength, min, psi (MPa) . 120 000 (828)
as any condition which renders the climber non-useable (see
A
Data from Federal Specification RR-C-430 C. (Cancelled)
Fig. 8).
B
Brinell hardness number with 3000 kg load, 10 mm ball.
7.6.1.3 Ductility Test—(a) Leg iron: The leg iron shall
withstand without fracture or cracking, a 180 degree bend
about a mandrel near the midpoint of the shank area. Mandrel
size shall be based upon the minimum allowable bend radius
7.2.1 Materials other than those stated herein are permitted
specified for the leg iron shank material, thickness and hard-
only when it can be demonstrated by testing that all applicable
ness properties. (b) Gaff: The gaff shall withstand, without
performance requirements of this standard are met and that the
fracture, a cold bend in a direction away from the leg iron. The
durability, reliability and other properties pertinent to the
center of the bend shall be approximately ⁄8 in.(16 mm) from
intended uses have been evaluated and determined suitable by
the tip of the gaff. Permanent deflection of the tip of ⁄8 in.
testing. Any restrictions on the use of such leg irons shall be
(9.5 mm) with respect to the straight outer edge of the upper
marked on the leg iron.
section shall be produced.
7.3 Processing—If required, manufacturers shall use a heat
7.6.1.4 Plane Test—This test may be used to determine that
treatment to provide the required characteristics of the leg iron.
the gaff is correctly shaped and sharpened to properly penetrate
Overheating shall be avoided. Scaling, pitting, and surface
the pole. Place the climber on a flat, soft pine or cedar board.
decarburization shall be removed on the inside critical section
Holding it upright with the shank parallel to the board surface,
of the leg iron from 2 in. (50.8 mm) below the gaff to 6 in.
but with no pressure on the stirrup, push the climber forward
(152.4 mm) above the gaff (see Fig. 3).
along the board as shown in Fig. 9a. If the gaff is properly
7.4 Design—The design of the climber shall be such that the
shaped and sharpened and if the gaff angle with the wood is
maximum tensile stress at the point where maximum stress
sufficient, the gaff point will dig into the wood and begin to
occurs when subjected to a fluctuating bending force of 300 lbf
hold within a distance of approximately 1 in. (2.54 cm). If the
(1.34 kN) applied to the center of the stirrup section with
climber gaff slides along the wood without digging in, or
sleeve in position shall be as indicated in the table below. The
merely leaves a mark or groove in the wood as shown in Fig.
climber shall be held in the climbing position by the gaff and
9b. the gaff is either not properly sharpened and shaped or the
at the top of the climber with the sleeve extended to provide a
gaff angle is too small. The gaff angle is built into the climber
16 in. (406.4 mm) length.
Leg Iron Max Tensile Stress, psi (MPa)
Type A—Steel 27 000 (185)
Type B—Aluminum 9 000 (60)
Type C—Titanium 27 000 (185)
7.5 Finish—Leg irons shall be free of surface cracks and
seams. Materials used for leg irons shall be finished with a
rust-resistant or corrosion-resistant coating as applicable.
7.6 Testing, Inspection and Marking:
7.6.1 Testing:
7.6.1.1 Deformation Test—The purpose for this test is to aid
in the elimination of climber failure in the event it is used in an
unusual manner such as descending a pole with large steps. The
climber shall be held rigidly in the climbing position with the
top of the shank parallel to a mounting fixture, the stirrup freely
suspended and perpendicular to the fixture. The climber
equipped with a pole gaff must also be mounted at the gaff tip
in a rigid surface to prevent gaff penetration. Gradually apply
a static load of 750 lbf (3.3 kN) at the center of the stirrup and
parallel to the fixture and hold for 3 min. Maximum deforma- FIG. 7 Deformation Test Fixtures
F887 − 23
8. Climber Gaffs
8.1 Sizes—Pole gaffs shall measure at least 1 ⁄16 in.
(36.5 mm) on the underside. Tree gaffs shall measure not more
1 1
than 3 ⁄2 in. (88.9 mm), nor less than 2 ⁄4 in. (57.2 mm) on the
underside. Gaff design shall be as shown in Fig. 11.
8.2 Material—All gaffs shall be forged of forging-quality
steel having the properties listed in Table 2.
8.3 Finish:
8.3.1 All fins or burrs shall be removed from the cutting
edges of gaff.
8.3.2 All gaffs shall be finished with a rust-resistant coating.
8.4 Inspection:
8.4.1 All gaffs shall be subjected to careful inspection by the
manufacturer. When requested, the manufacturer shall certify
that the gaffs meet all requirements set forth in this standard.
8.4.2 The size and shape of gaffs shall be checked with a
gauge available from the same manufacturer.
NOTE 2—Replaceable gaffs, whether pole or tree, fit only the climber
iron of the particular manufacturer.
9. Climber Straps
9.1 Sizes—Climber straps shall have a minimum nominal
FIG. 8 Fatigue Test Fixture width of 1 in. (25.4 mm) and must meet the strength criteria of
9.2. The length shall be not less than 22 in. (55.9 cm) for the
calf strap, or 24 in. (61 cm) for the one-piece ankle strap.
Two-piece ankle straps shall be not less than 24 in. (61 cm) in
length.
by the manufacturer and should be between 11 and 17 degrees
with the climber placed parallel to the surface of the wood.
9.2 Material and Properties:
7.6.1.5 Pole Cut Out Test—This test shall be performed on
9.2.1 Leather used in the manufacture of climber straps shall
a section of a treated (that is, creosote, penta, etc.) pole in an
be top grain cowhide and shall have a breaking strength of not
area that is free from knots and checks. Place the climber on
less than 450 lbf/in. (78.9 kN/m) of width with buckle holes.
your leg holding the sleeve with your hand. With your leg at an
The buckle holding strength of leather shall be not less than
approximate 30° angle to the pole and your foot about 12 in.
200 lbf (0.89 kN) static load when determined as follows:
(30.5 cm) off the ground. Lightly jab the gaff into the pole to
9.2.1.1 Punch a hole ⁄16 in. (4.76 mm) in diameter, centrally
a depth of approximately ⁄4 in. (6.4 mm). Keep enough
located in a 1 in. (25.4 mm) wide piece of strap, 1 in.
pressure on the stirrup to keep the gaff in the pole but not so
(25.4 mm) from the end of the test piece. Into this hole, fit the
much as to cause the gaff to penetrate any deeper (see Fig.
tongue of a 1 in. assembled buckle of the design to be supplied
10a). Push the climber and your hand closer to the pole by
with the climber strap. Apply the load to the buckle and to the
moving your knee until the strap loop of the climber sleeve is
free end of the strap. The buckle tongue shall not tear the
against the pole. Make certain the strap loop is held against the
leather under the specified static load of 200 lbf (0.89 kN).
pole with pressure from your leg. Gradually exert full pressure
9.2.2 The leather shall show no cracking on the grain side
of your foot straight down on the stirrup without raising your
when bent slowly over a ⁄2 in. (12.7 mm) diameter mandrel,
other foot off the floor or ground, so as to maintain balance if
grain side out, through an angle of 180°. The leather shall not
the gaff does not hold (see Fig. 10b). The tip of the gaff shall
show piping or wrinkling of the grain side when bent over a
cut into the wood and hold (dig itself in) in a distance of not
mandrel 1 in. (25.4 mm) in diameter, with the grain side in,
more than 2 in. (5.1 cm), measured from the point of gaff entry
through an angle of 180°.
into the pole to the bottom of the cut on the pole surface.
9.2.3 Fabric used in the manufacture of climber straps shall
7.6.2 All climbers shall be subjected to careful inspection
have a breaking strength of not less than 600 lbf ⁄in.
by the manufacturer. When requested, the manufacturer shall (105.1 kN ⁄m) of width with buckle holes. Construction shall
provide certification that the climbers meet all requirements set
be a minimum of four plies of thickness of folded nylon, or of
forth in this standard.
woven nylon, or equivalent material, constructed in such a way
7.6.3 Completed climbers shall be permanently marked by that no raw edges are exposed. Folded fabric shall be impreg-
nated with neoprene or its equivalent, so that the plies or
the manufacturer with the manufacturer’s name, ASTM F887
standard, size (if fixed size), right or left, and the month and strands are not readily separable, except by chemical means.
year of manufacture. Right or left markings shall be in a visible 9.2.4 The buckle holding strength of the finished strap shall
area (that is, toe, stirrup) not covered by other equipment. be not less than 300 lbf (1.34 kN) static load without evidence
F887 − 23
FIG. 9 a & b Plane Test
FIG. 10 a & b Pole Cut Out Test
NOTE 1—Degree of angle of the gaff, measured as shown, shall range from 11° to 17°, and the point of the gaff shall be a minimum of ⁄8 in. (9.6 mm)
above the lowest point of the climber stirrup. Tree gaffs are excluded from this requirement. The inside flat surface of the gaff at the tip shall be finished
with a radius of approximately ⁄4 in. (6.4 mm) in accordance with the gage profile.
FIG. 11 Gaff Design
TABLE 2 Properties of Steel Alloy Acceptable for Gaffs
of failure. Buckle tear shall be in the direction of load
application when tested to failure. Elongation in 2 in. (5 cm), min 12 %
A
Hardness (tip) 45 to 55 HRC
B
9.3 Hardware—Buckle frames shall be of welded wire or
421 to 546 HB
Yield strength, psi (MPa) 212 000 (1460)
forged construction. Tongues shall be of an adequate gage wire
A
to meet the strength criteria of 9.2. There may be a variation of no more than three points in the Rockwell Hardness
readings taken from the tip of the gaff to a point 1 ⁄4 in. (3.2 cm) back from the tip
9.4 Design—Buckle holes in the climber straps shall not
on the fixed gaff climber, 1 in. (2.5 cm) from the tip on replaceable gaff climbers.
B
Brinell hardness number with 3000 kg load, 10 mm ball.
exceed ⁄16 in. (4.76 mm) in diameter. Straps shall be riveted to
the buckles by at least two rivets, with the strap keeper
centered between the rivets. The completed assembly shall
F887 − 23
meet the strength requirements of 9.2. Buckle pads or chafes 10.3.4 Sleeve retaining straps shall be capable of withstand-
may be added when desired. ing a direct pull of 175 lbf (0.78 kN) (see Fig. 12a).
10.3.5 Sleeve retaining straps in place within the climber
10. Climber Pads
sleeve shall be capable of withstanding a direct pull of 700 lbf
10.1 Climber pad assemblies are intended for use with the
(3.12 kN) (see Fig. 12b).
climber to enhance comfort.
11. Climber Footplates
10.2 Hook and Loop Fastener style wrap pads covered
under this standard cover the function of both the climber strap
11.1 Climber footplate assemblies are intended for use with
and pad.
the climber to enhance comfort.
10.3 Materials—Materials used in the manufacture of pads
11.2 Materials and Properties—Materials used in the manu-
shall be of a type that will result in a finished product capable
facture of footplates shall be of a type that will result in a
of meeting the requirements for this section outlined below.
finished product capable of meeting the requirements for this
10.3.1 Wrap style pads shall maintain a minimum wrap that
section outlined below. Material used in the manufacture of
shall not release at a force of less than 1000 lbf (4.4 kN) when
footplates must maintain its integrity and resist permanent
statically tested.
deformation under normal use conditions for the expected life
10.3.2 Wrap style pads must display a minimum wrap
of the product.
location warning. Warning must be permanently attached (label
or marking).
11.3 Removable—Footplates if removable shall be equipped
10.3.3 Sleeve retaining straps (see Fig. 12a) shall be a
with positive locking fasteners to secure the footplates to the
minimum of 1 in. (25.4 mm) in width. Leather sleeve retaining
climber stirrup.
straps shall have a breaking strength of not less than 450 lbf/in.
(78.9 kN/m) of width. Finished fabric sleeve retaining straps 11.4 Articulation—Footplates may swivel slightly on the
climber stirrup to allow for ease of movement when working
shall have a breaking strength of not less than 600 lbf ⁄in.
(105.1 kN ⁄m) of width. aloft.
FIG. 12 a & b Sleeve Retaining Straps on Hook and Loop Fastener Wrap Style Pads
F887 − 23
11.5 Shape—Shape must be smaller than the outsole of a 12.3.1 Type A—Equipment for use on dry, wet, and conduit-
standard climbing boot while providing sufficient support to covered poles as described in this standard.
the outsole.
12.3.2 Type AB—Equipment is for use on dry, wet, conduit-
covered, and icy poles as described in this standard.
11.6 Non–Skid—Bottom surfaces of the footplate must be as
a minimum 90 % covered by a rubber sole or an equivalent
12.4 Arborist saddle covered under this standard shall be
non-skid coating. designated as Type A, as follows:
12.4.1 Type A—Equipment for use in work positioning and
11.7 Steel footplates are not intended for and may not be
suspension.
used on aluminum climbers unless provisions are implemented
to prevent premature wear on the climber.
13. Ordering Information
11.8 Footplates shall be permanently marked by the manu-
13.1 Orders for equipment under this standard should in-
facturer with the manufacturer’s name, month and year of
clude the following information:
manufacture and designated as right and left.
13.1.1 Nomenclature,
11.9 Finish—Footplates shall be free of surface cracks and
13.1.2 Type,
seams. All steel or ferrous material footplates shall be finished
13.1.3 Style,
with a rust-resistant coating.
13.1.4 Material, and
13.1.5 Size.
BODY BELTS, POSITIONING DEVICES, AND WOOD
POLE FALL RESTRICTION DEVICES (WPFRD)
13.2 The listing of equipment, types, styles, and sizes is not
intended to mean that all shall necessarily be available from the
12. Classification
manufacturer. The listing signifies only that, if made, the
12.1 Body belts covered under this standard shall be desig-
equipment, types, styles, and sizes shall conform to the details
nated as Type A or B, as follows:
of this standard.
12.1.1 Type A—Belt with dee-ring piece in fixed position.
12.1.2 Type B—Belt with dee-ring piece that has limited
14. Two Dee Body Belts, Auxiliary Positioning Belts, and
freedom of movement.
Four Dee Body Belts
12.2 Positioning devices covered under this standard shall
14.1 Two Dee Body Belts:
be designated as follows:
14.1.1 Sizes—The “dee” measurement will be the nominal
12.2.1 Positioning Straps:
distance from the heel or bar of one dee ring to the heel or bar
12.2.1.1 Type A—Adjustable length, with tongue buckle.
of the other dee ring (see Fig. 13). Body belts shall be marked
12.2.1.2 Type B—Adjustable length, with friction buckle.
with the “dee” sizes since the dee size is the most critical. Body
12.2.1.3 Type C—Nonadjustable length strap.
belts are normally furnished in the combination belt strap and
12.2.2 Adjustable Positioning Lanyard:
dee sizes listed in Table 3 (see Fig. 14), however, belt strap
12.2.2.1 Type A—Adjustable length rope lanyard with
measurements may vary on different style belts and with
Length Adjusting Device (LAD).
different manufacturers.
12.2.2.2 Type B—Web (woven nylon) lanyard with friction
14.1.2 Materials:
buckle.
14.1.2.1 Leather—Top grain leather or leather substitute
12.2.2.3 Type C—6 ft to 10 ft retractable web (see ANSI/
may be used in the manufacture, but shall not be used alone as
ASSE Z359.14-2021).
a load bearing component of the assembly.
12.2.3 Nonadjustable Positioning Lanyard:
14.1.2.2 Fabric—Plied fabric used in the manufacture of
12.2.3.1 Type A—Nonadjustable Rope Lanyard (see ANSI/
load bearing parts shall be constructed in such a way that no
ASSP Z359.3-2019).
raw edges are exposed. Plied fabric shall be impregnated with
12.2.3.2 Type B—Nonadjustable Web Lanyard (see ANSI/
neoprene, or its equivalent, so that the plies are not readily
ASSP Z359.3-2019).
separable, except by chemical means. If webbing is used, it
12.3 WPFRD covered under this standard shall be desig- need not be impregnated.
nated as Type A or AB as follows: 14.1.3 Design:
FIG. 13 “Dee” Measurement
F887 − 23
TABLE 3 Available Body Belts Listed by Dee Size With
pockets (see Fig. 4 and Fig. 13). On shifting dee belts, the
Corresponding Belt Strap Size
measurement for pocket tabs shall be taken when the dee ring
Center Hole No. of
Dee Size Min Max section is centered.
Tool
14.1.3.2 Belt Straps—Belt straps shall be made of fabric
in. cm in. cm in. cm in. cm
Loops
described in 14.1.2. Buckle holes shall be spaced on 1 in.
D18 46 32 81 36 91 40 102 3
D19 48 33 84 37 94 41 104 3
(25.4 mm) centers, round or oval, to accommodate the tongue
D20 51 34 86 38 97 42 107 3
of the belt buckle. Buckle holes shall be shaped not in excess
D21 53 36 91 40 102 44 112 4
1 1 3
of ⁄4 in. (6.3 mm) in diameter if round, or ⁄4 in. by ⁄8 in.
D22 56 37 94 41 104 45 114 4
D23 58 38 97 42 107 46 117 4 (6.3 mm by 9.5 mm) if oval shaped, the greater dimension to be
D24 61 40 102 44 112 48 122 4
in the direction of the length of the strap. For grommet
D25 64 41 104 45 114 49 124 4
construction, holes shall be no larger than No. 2 grommet. No
D26 66 42 107 46 117 50 127 4
D27 69 44 112 48 122 52 132 4
hole shall be permitted within 4 in. (101.6 mm) of the end of
D28 71 45 114 49 124 53 135 4
the strap. The nominal body strap width shall be 1 ⁄4 in. (44.5
D29 74 46 117 50 127 54 137 4
mm) (see Fig. 15).
D30 76 47 119 51 130 55 140 4
14.1.3.3 Tool Loops—Tool loops shall be so situated on the
body of the belt that 4 in. (101.6 mm) of the body belt in the
center of the back, measuring from dee-ring to dee-ring, shall
be free of tool loops and any other attachments (see Fig. 4).
The material may be either leather or fabric ⁄8 in. (3.18 mm)
thick, 1 in. (25.4 mm) nominal width, with the loops having a
maximum diameter of 1 ⁄4 in. (44.4 mm) and a minimum
diameter of ⁄4 in. (19.1 mm).
14.1.3.4 Dee-Rings and Buckles—Shall meet the applicable
requirements specified in Section 23. Additionally, the dee ring
strap and the belt shall not pass through or attach to that part of
the dee ring to which a connecting device such as a carabiner
or snaphook will be engaged. The Dee rings shall be installed
in the body belt in such a manner that vertical travel in the
assembly is prevented.
14.1.3.5 Liners for Dee-Rings—Suitable copper, steel, or
equivalent liners shall be used around the bar of dee rings to
prevent wear.
14.1.3.6 Stitching and Thread—All stitching shall be of
nylon or equivalent thread and shall be lock stitched, not less
X— Distance from waist or top of hip bone to where body belt is worn.
than three nor more than seven stitches to the inch. The thread
Y— Measurement is from front of hip bone around the back to the front of the
other hip bone. This measurement is the Dee size. shall have a minimum breaking strength of 42 lbf (186.83 N).
Stitching parallel to an edge shall be approximately ⁄16 in.
FIG. 14 A Method Showing Where to Measure to Determine Cor-
(4.8 mm) from the edge of the narrowest member caught by the
rect “Dee” Size for a Body Belt
thread.
14.1.4 Materials Test Method:
14.1.3.1 Body P
...