Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Magnox magnetic plate and how does it improve tool security?
A: The Magnox plate is a proprietary magnetic plate embedded at the base of the holster. It provides a secondary retention force on any ferrous tool, steel-handled spanners, pliers, screwdrivers, ratchets, attracting the tool towards the base of the holster regardless of the holster's orientation. If the holster inverts during active work, the plate holds the ferrous tool in place until the holster returns to the correct position, preventing the sudden uncontrolled tool exit that would otherwise shock-load the tether lanyard.
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. Both the holster and each individual 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 is not suitable for tools exceeding 5kg or for tools longer than 22cm. It must not be used at height without a rated tool lanyard connecting the D-ring to the tool. Non-ferrous tools such as plastic or aluminium-handled instruments are not retained by the Magnox plate on inversion and must remain tethered at all times. The holster is not a fall arrest device.
Q: Does the Magnox plate work with all tools?
A: The Magnox magnetic plate retains ferrous tools, those with steel or iron components in the handle or body. Steel spanners, ratchets, screwdrivers, pliers, and similar metal-handled tools will be attracted to the plate. Plastic-handled, rubber-handled, or aluminium-bodied tools do not have enough ferrous content for the magnetic plate to retain them. These tools can still be stored in the holster and tethered via the D-ring anchor points, but they will not benefit from Magnox inversion security.
Q: How is this different from the NLG Hammer Holster or Spanner Holster?
A: The Hammer Holster has a purpose-built anti-snag cradle arm for hammers specifically and is optimised for single-handed hammer docking. The Spanner Holster has a structured body for scaffold spanners and Quick Connect attachment that extends to scaffold rails. The Tool Holster is a general-purpose solution accommodating a wider range of small hand tools, with the Magnox magnetic plate providing inversion security that neither of the specialist holsters includes. The three holsters can be combined on a single harness or belt to cover different tools simultaneously.
Q: Can I tether two tools from this holster at the same time?
A: Yes. Two independent D-ring anchor points on orange webbing straps are integrated into the holster, each rated to 5kg. Connect a rated lanyard from one D-ring to the primary tool inside the holster and a second rated lanyard from the other D-ring to a second tool. Both tools tether independently without sharing a load path.
Q: What size hand tools will fit inside?
A: The internal dimensions of 22cm (H) x 10cm (W) x 7cm (D) accommodate most standard small hand tools including adjustable spanners up to approximately 250mm, pliers and combination pliers, ratchet handles, screwdrivers, torque wrenches, and similar site tools within this size range. Verify your specific tool's dimensions before ordering.
Q: What should I do if the holster is dropped at height?
A: Quarantine the holster immediately. Inspect the holster body for damage, the Magnox plate for any impact deformation that might affect magnetic retention, the D-rings for deformation, and the Quick Connect for distortion or loss of positive locking. 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 full inspection.
