01
Purpose
Covers connectors used in personal fall-protection systems.
Connection SystemsTECHNICAL PPE LIBRARY
EN 362
Connector and Carabiner Standard
Covers connectors used in personal fall-protection systems.
Product type
Connector / carabiner
Field focus
Code + product + conditions of use
TECHNICAL PRODUCT IDENTITY
EN 362
EN 362StandardB/M/T/A/QClasskNStrengthIDIdentityAlways verify the actual product label, manufacturer technical documentation and conformity markings.
02
Typical use
Harness, lanyard, lifeline and anchorage-system connections.
03
What to look for?
Check EN 362 marking, B/M/T/A/Q class, locking mechanism, strength markings and manufacturer information.
CLASSES & SELECTION LOGIC
Technical classes in this standard
A class code is not a selection decision by itself. Interpret it together with task-specific risk assessment and manufacturer data.
B
Basic connector
Self-closing basic connector used as a component.
M
Multi-use connector
Multi-use class intended to accommodate loading on major and minor axes.
T
Termination connector
Connector fixed in a subsystem so loading is applied in a predetermined direction.
A
Anchor connector
Automatically closing connector designed to link directly to a specific anchor type.
Q
Screw-link connector
Connector class with a screw-motion gate (quick-link/maillon type).
READ THE PRODUCT LABEL
Code & marking decoder
EN 362StandardConnector reference.B/M/T/A/QClassFunctional class of the connector.kNStrengthMarked strength values for the indicated loading axes/conditions.IDIdentityManufacturer/model and traceability information.
READ THE PRODUCT IN THE FIELD
Where is the standard marking found?
Location varies by manufacturer and design. These are the first places to check; final verification must use the actual product and manufacturer documentation.
1
Laser or permanent marking on connector body
The marking should be legible, durable and match the product.
2
B/M/T/A/Q class and strength markings on the body
The marking should be legible, durable and match the product.
3
Manufacturer, model and traceability code
The marking should be legible, durable and match the product.
STANDARD FAMILY
Standards often reviewed together
EN 362B/M/T/A/Q class connectors in personal fall-protection systems
EN 795Anchor devices are a separate component family
EN 361System compatibility is checked with harness attachment points
COMMONLY CONFUSED
They are not the same thing
kN marking ≠ same strength in every direction
Connector class, orientation, gate condition and loading axis can be critical.
WRONG-SELECTION EXAMPLE
A typical field mistake
Loading a connector across the gate or on an axis it was not designed for.
Why is this a problem?
Connector class and marked strength depend on loading direction.
Better approach
Verify the class, intended loading axis, closed/locked gate and component compatibility.
WHERE IN THE FIELD?
Typical applications
01
Harness systems
02
Lanyards
03
Lifelines
04
Anchorage
05
Rescue
06
Rope access
HSE FIELD CHECK
30-second field check
Use for quick pre-checks. It does not replace certification, competent inspection or task-specific risk assessment.
CHECK FOCUS
Does the gate self-close?
CRITICAL MISTAKE
Loading a connector across the gate or on an axis it was not designed for.
BETTER APPROACH
Verify the class, intended loading axis, closed/locked gate and component compatibility.
1
Does the gate self-close?
2
Does the locking mechanism work?
3
Any crack, deformation or significant corrosion in body/gate?
4
Is the connector loaded on the intended axis; any cross/gate-loading risk?
5
Are class and component compatibility suitable for the application?
RELATED SERNEM RESOURCES