Question 1

A rigger is using a torque wrench at height, clipped to a tool belt by a single fixed clip. There is no separate tether between the tool and the rigger's harness.

Does this meet DROPS-aligned best practice for tools used at height?

Accepted Answer

No - DROPS Tools at Height guidance calls for a tool tether (lanyard) rated to the load, attached independently to the worker or anchor, so a single clip failure doesn't result in a drop A single clip on a tool belt is one point of failure with no independent backup. DROPS' tool tethering guidance requires a load-rated tether between the tool and the worker/structure, so that the belt attachment failing does not, on its own, lead to a dropped object.

Question 2

Per DROPS' official Reliable Securing terminology, what is "Primary Fixing"?

Accepted Answer

The method by which an item is installed, mounted and secured to prevent it falling - e.g. bolted connections, screws, pins, buckles, clips, welds Primary Fixing is the main installation method keeping an item in place under normal conditions; DROPS defines two further layers (Secondary Retention, Safety Securing) that exist specifically to cover the case where the Primary Fixing fails.

Question 3

DROPS' Reliable Securing guidance defines THREE distinct layers of securing, not two. What are they, in order?

Accepted Answer

Primary Fixing, then Secondary Retention, then Safety Securing Secondary Retention (e.g. locking washers, locking wire, split pins) prevents loss of clamping force or displacement of the Primary Fixing's own components. Safety Securing (e.g. rated nets, baskets, wires, slings) is an additional, independent restraint where Secondary Retention isn't feasible.