How do you calculate the SWL using the MBS and safety factors?

The Safe Working Load (SWL) is an essential calculation in rope access, determining the maximum load that a piece of equipment can safely handle. The SWL is calculated using the Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) and the industry safety factor.

To find the SWL, you take the MBS, which is the maximum load that the equipment can withstand before breaking, and divide it by the industry safety factor. The industry safety factor accounts for variables like wear, fatigue, and unexpected loads. Dividing the MBS by this factor provides a conservative estimate of the load that can be safely applied without risking failure.

This method ensures that the load capacity is not just based on the strength of the equipment alone but also considers potential risk factors that might arise during usage, ensuring safety during operations.