When using maintenance contractor supplied suspended-access equipment - such as RDS, single work cage, or platform - there must be two independent means of support for each worker using the equipment. Specifically:

• The suspension support equipment must be tied back to an adequate anchorage;
• The safety system of each worker must be independent and secured to an independent anchor; and
• These anchorages must be within 15 degrees of the support equipment and be able to withstand a 5,000 lbs load without fracture.

This is more than just "good practice," it is a legal requirement of ANSI I-14 and OSHA 1910.66 regulations.

In addition, anchors, which are used for tie-backs or for securing lifelines, are also an effective, practical means for directly securing a bosun's chair with a rope descent system, the most popular method of window cleaning today.