Who Is This For
The Large D Ring Tool Tether is used by workers who carry heavier hand tools at height, scaffold spanners, hammers, wrenches, and similar tools in the 1kg to 3kg range, that have no captive hole or shaped section for a ring attachment. A scaffolder carrying a podger spanner, a steel fixer with an adjustable wrench, or a construction operative with a lump hammer all need a certified tether point that is rated to the weight of the tool they are using. The Large D Ring, wrapped in position with Tether Tape, creates that point without modification to the tool and without permanent attachment to its surface.
Typical Applications
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Creating a tether point on scaffold spanners and podger spanners used by scaffolders on tube and fitting systems at height.
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Tethering claw hammers and lump hammers used in elevated brickwork, formwork, and structural assembly.
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Retrofitting a tether point on adjustable spanners and wrenches used for bolted connections on elevated steelwork and structures.
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Tethering spirit levels and larger flat-bodied tools used in elevated installation and setting-out work.
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Preparing sets of heavier hand tools at ground level before ascending, so all tools arrive at height ready for immediate lanyard connection.
How to Use
Step 1: Confirm the tool weighs between 1kg and 3kg. For tools under 1kg, use the NLG Small D Ring Tool Tether (NLG101361). For tools over 3kg, use the NLG Tether Choke range.
Step 2: Cut a length of NLG Tether Tape long enough to wrap around the tool at least six to eight times. Remove the plastic backing strip from the cut length.
Step 3: Check the tool surface is clean. Position the Large D Ring against the tool body with the NLG label facing up and the webbing catch exposed.
Step 4: Wrap the Tether Tape firmly around the D Ring catch and the tool body, stretching the tape throughout application. When the tape is stretched correctly, the edges distort and become wavy. Insufficient stretch reduces bond strength.
Step 5: Test the tether point before use by pulling firmly down on the D Ring catch. The D Ring must not move or slip.
Step 6: Connect an approved 3kg rated tool lanyard to the D Ring and attach to a rated anchor point before putting the tool into use at height.
Common Mistakes
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Using the Large D Ring on a tool over 3kg. The Tether Choke range is the correct solution for tools above this weight.
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Using the Small D Ring (NLG101361) on a heavier tool because it is the only one in the kit. The Small D Ring is rated to 1kg only. Using it on a heavier tool exceeds its rating.
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Wrapping Tether Tape without sufficient stretch. On heavier tools where the forces involved are greater, undertensioned tape is more likely to shift under load. Stretch the tape firmly throughout application until the edges become wavy.
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Covering the NLG label during wrapping. Leave the label exposed and facing up so it can be read and inspected without removing the tape.
Safety
The Large D Ring Tool Tether is rated to 3kg maximum load. Do not use on tools weighing more than 3kg. This product must be used with NLG Tether Tape, the D Ring alone provides no attachment to the tool. The completed tether point must be connected to a rated lanyard and an approved anchor point before the tool is used at height. After any drop event, quarantine the D Ring and inspect before returning to service. If the Tether Tape has been displaced or damaged in a drop, remove it and replace with a fresh length. Employers have a duty under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 to take suitable steps to prevent tools falling from height.
Maintenance
Inspect the welded D Ring for distortion, cracks, sharp edges, and corrosion before each use. Inspect the webbing for cuts, abrasion, fraying, and soiling. Check the contrast stitching for wear or cuts. Confirm the NLG ID label is legible. Check the Tether Tape wrapping for any loosening or slippage on the tool body, the tape has shifted, remove it and replace with a fresh length. On removal, cut the tape cleanly away from the tool and retain the D Ring for use on another tool with fresh Tether Tape. Record formal inspections by serial number using the NLG Inspection Checklist.
