Portwest FP40 3m Retractable Web Fall Arrest Block
The Portwest FP40 Web Fall Arrest Block provides a 3-metre retractable webbing lifeline for an assessed fall-protection system. The retractable arrangement is intended to manage the line during permitted movement and lock in the event of a fall. Suitability depends on the complete system, the work position and the manufacturer's operating instructions.
The unit combines a protective ABS housing with polyethylene webbing and heat-treated alloy steel hardware. It includes a connection carabiner and a swivel snap hook with a double safety lock and load indicator. Check the condition and operation of these components during the manufacturer's specified pre-use inspection.
Portwest lists EN 360:2002, EN 362:2004 and a maximum rated load of 100kg for FP40. These specifications help identify the correct model when selecting compatible fall-prevention equipment. The 3m figure describes lifeline length; it must not be used as a substitute for calculating the clearance required below the user.
A competent person must confirm anchorage, harness compatibility, permitted working angles and rescue arrangements before the block is used. Do not infer approval for horizontal or edge use from the retractable design alone. For help checking product details before ordering, contact Astral Hygiene with the FP40 model reference and the specification you need to confirm.
Key Features & Benefits
- 3m retractable lifeline: webbing extends and retracts within the manufacturer's permitted operating arrangement.
- Polyethylene webbing: used with a protective ABS housing and heat-treated alloy steel hardware.
- Included connectors: a carabiner and swivel snap hook form part of the supplied assembly.
- Double safety lock: provided on the snap hook described in Portwest's product information.
- Load indicator: included for the checks required by the manufacturer's instructions.
- Documented rating: Portwest lists EN 360:2002, EN 362:2004 and a 100kg maximum rated load.
Directions for Use
1. Assess the system and work area
Have a competent person confirm the anchorage, compatible full-body harness, connection arrangement and rescue plan. Use the supplied instructions to establish working angles, required clearance and any restrictions on the environment or edges. Observe the 100kg rating and every component's limits.
2. Complete inspection and function checks
Inspect the housing, webbing, connectors and load indicator, and carry out the manufacturer's prescribed function checks. Confirm the examination records and equipment history. Withdraw the block if it is damaged, has arrested a fall or does not pass the required checks.
3. Install and connect as instructed
Follow Portwest's installation and connection sequence using suitable anchorage and the permitted harness attachment. Check connector closure and the line's route before starting work. Stay within the manufacturer's specified orientation and working area; do not assume the block is approved for every edge condition.
4. Maintain and quarantine when necessary
Follow the supplied cleaning, storage, examination and service requirements after use. Keep damaged or fall-loaded equipment separate from usable stock. Do not return a block to service based on appearance alone; apply the manufacturer's inspection, servicing and retirement instructions.
Product Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Brand / model |
Portwest FP40 |
| Product type |
Retractable web fall arrest block |
| Lifeline length |
3m |
| Webbing material |
Polyethylene |
| Housing / hardware |
ABS shell and heat-treated alloy steel |
| Connectors |
Carabiner and swivel snap hook |
| Snap-hook features |
Double safety lock and load indicator |
| Maximum rated load |
100kg; follow the supplied operating limits |
| Standards listed by Portwest |
EN 360:2002 and EN 362:2004 |
| System requirements |
Compatible harness, suitable anchorage, assessed clearance and rescue arrangements |
FAQs
How long is the FP40 lifeline?
The block has a 3m retractable webbing lifeline. That is the line length, not the required distance below the working position. Establish clearance using the supplied instructions and the complete system assessment.
Does a retractable block still need fall clearance?
Yes. Anchorage position, the work area and the system's operating characteristics must be assessed before use. A competent person should determine the required clearance and account for the manufacturer's working-angle and movement restrictions.
Can FP40 be used horizontally or over any edge?
Do not assume so. Use the block only in orientations and edge conditions expressly permitted by its supplied instructions. Where the intended use is outside that scope or unclear, select equipment with confirmed suitability before work begins.
Which connectors are included?
Portwest lists a carabiner and a swivel snap hook with a double safety lock and load indicator. Check these components as instructed and confirm that their permitted connections are compatible with the selected anchorage and harness.
What is the maximum rated load?
Portwest specifies 100kg for FP40. Follow the supplied user-and-equipment loading instructions and all component limits. The rating does not remove the need for suitable anchorage, correct installation, inspection or rescue planning.
What should happen after the block arrests a fall?
Remove it from service, keep it separate and follow the manufacturer's inspection and service instructions. A block that looks undamaged must not automatically be treated as reusable. Apply the stated servicing and retirement criteria before any return to use.
