The primary function of a personal fall arrest system accessory is to mitigate the effects of suspension trauma. This accessory, when deployed, allows a worker who is suspended after a fall to relieve pressure on the arteries and veins around the top of the legs. By creating a loop or stirrup, the individual can stand, which engages leg muscles and restores some blood flow.
Prolonged suspension in a harness can lead to orthostatic intolerance, where blood pools in the legs. This condition can cause unconsciousness and, if unaddressed, serious injury or death within a short period. The accessory provides a crucial window of opportunity while awaiting rescue, helping to delay the onset of suspension trauma and increasing the chances of a positive outcome. Its use has become increasingly prevalent as awareness of the dangers of suspension trauma has grown within safety-conscious industries.