Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the rotating retention bar work?
A: The retention bar is a curved arm that pivots at one end, fitted across the opening of the holster. Once the tape measure is placed in the holster, you rotate the bar upward with one hand, a single motion that locks the bar across the top of the tape measure, preventing it from exiting the holster even if the holster is bumped or inverted. To retrieve the tape, rotate the bar downward and lift the tape out. No button, buckle, or second hand is required for either action.
Q: What safety standards does this holster meet?
A: The holster is certified to ANSI/ISEA 121-2023, the primary international standard for dropped object prevention tethering equipment, and also meets NS 9611:2022+AC, the Norwegian standard for tool lanyards and tethering systems. It carries CE and UKCA markings. The holster and its D-ring anchor point are load tested dynamically at a 2:1 safety factor, independently verified by a third-party laboratory.
Q: What is this holster NOT suitable for?
A: The holster content is rated to 1kg maximum. It is not suitable for tape measures or tools exceeding this limit. It must not be used at height without a rated lanyard connecting the D-ring to the tape measure. It is not suitable for belts wider than 3 inches (76mm). This product is not a fall arrest device.
Q: Why is the D-ring rated to 5kg when the holster content is rated to 1kg?
A: The 1kg rating applies to the tape measure stored inside the holster. The D-ring anchor point itself is engineered and tested to a higher standard of 5kg to ensure it can accommodate rated lanyards, the NLG Tape Measure Tether (NLG101414), and the dynamic forces generated during a drop event, even though the tape measure being tethered is well below 5kg. A higher anchor point rating than the tool weight provides an additional safety margin.
Q: What size tape measures will this fit?
A: The holster dimensions of 19cm (H) x 13cm (W) x 10cm (D) accommodate most standard construction tape measures from 3-metre pocket tapes through to large 8-metre professional formats. The rigid body maintains consistent internal dimensions, so the tape seats reliably regardless of size within this range. Verify your specific tape measure dimensions against the holster before ordering.
Q: What is the NLG Tape Measure Tether (NLG101414) and do I need it?
A: The NLG Tape Measure Tether (NLG101414) is a separate accessory that attaches directly to the body of the tape measure itself, creating a rated tether point on the tool. It connects to the holster D-ring via a rated lanyard. Used alongside this holster, it creates a complete dual-security system: the holster retains the tape measure physically, and the tether lanyard provides rated dropped object prevention. The tether is not required to use the holster, but is the manufacturer-recommended companion accessory for maximum security.
Q: Do I need a lanyard even though the retention bar physically locks the tape measure in?
A: Yes. The retention bar secures the tape measure in the holster body during active work and prevents it from falling out when the holster is bumped or inverted. However, for compliant dropped object prevention under ANSI/ISEA 121-2023 and a site dropped object prevention programme, a rated tool lanyard connecting the D-ring to the tape measure is also required. The holster retention and the lanyard serve different functions and both are needed for full compliance.
Q: What should I do if the holster is dropped at height?
A: Quarantine the holster immediately. Inspect the holster body for structural damage, the retention bar for deformation or failure to lock, the D-ring for damage, and the orange webbing for fraying or cuts. Scan the NLG ID tag to log the event and access the inspection checklist. Do not return the holster to service until a competent person has completed and recorded the inspection.
