The ANSI/ISEA 121 standard, first introduced in 2018, established essential design, performance, testing, and labelling requirements for solutions aimed at reducing incidents involving dropped objects in industrial and occupational environments. This standard was recently updated, and this article intends to provide a summary of the key changes.

What is ANSI/ISEA 121-2023? 

Building on the original, ANSI/ISEA 121-2023 incorporates updated research and industry feedback to further enhance safety measures and offer more comprehensive solutions for preventing dropped objects. This updated standard clearly defines what constitutes a proper tethering system, moving away from improvised methods such as duct tape and string. 

What are the key changes included in ANSI/ISEA 121-2023? 

ANSI/ISEA 121-2023, the American National Standard for Dropped Object Prevention Solutions, focuses on "active controls" that workers and employers can implement to prevent objects from falling. This approach contrasts with passive measures, like netting or toe boards, which, according to the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), are often less effective. 

Key updates include:

• Expanded purpose and application content, including a new exceptions section.
• Adjustments to testing procedures for tool tethers and containers.
• Refined requirements for marking and instructions. 

Why was ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 updated? 

ISEA emphasized that while personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, can mitigate the impact on workers struck by falling or dropped objects, PPE alone cannot prevent objects from falling, or being dropped. 

Is ANSI/ISEA 121-2023 compulsory? 

Preventing dropped objects is not just a best practice—it's a compliance issue. While adherence to the ANSI/ISEA 121-2023 standard remains voluntary, GRIPPS^® strongly recommends that workers and employers address the risks associated with falling objects. 

This revised standard does not prescribe how workers should use tethering equipment or specify which items need to be tethered or when. These guidelines are provided by the equipment manufacturer, while decisions regarding tethering are typically determined by company policies or regulatory authorities. 

For more information on our engineered drop prevention solutions or to place an order for immediate shipment, please visit www.gripps.com.