A company asked whether rope descent system (RDS) anchorages must be tested at the full 5,000-pound capacity, or whether testing at 2,500 pounds using the 4-to-1 safety factor methodology in IWCA/ANSI I-14.1-2001 complies with OSHA's rule.
OSHA explained that 29 CFR 1910.27(b)(1)(i) requires building owners to ensure anchorages are capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds, in any direction, for each worker attached, and that a qualified person must certify them. The rule is about capability, not a specific test protocol: OSHA stated that the qualified person may utilize any scientifically valid testing criteria to determine whether an anchorage is capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) per attached worker.
That means the 4-to-1 safety factor approach (testing at 2,500 pounds) is acceptable. Testing at the full 5,000-pound ultimate capacity is also fine if an industry standard requires it or the certifying qualified person deems it necessary.