Ridgegear RGA4/EDGE Fall Arrest Block with Recovery Winch 15m

RGA4 (RGA4/EDGE) is a Ridgegear three-way retrieval block: a 15 m retractable fall arrester that also carries an up/down winch, so a worker who has fallen can be winched up or down to safety. It is rated to EN 360:2002, VG11.060 and EN 1496:2017 B, with a polyester shock pack for leading-edge work.

Fall arrest and rescue in one housing

Compared with a plain block, the RGA4 adds a handle-operated winch with a 1:10 turn ratio and a 1:10 force ratio. Ridgegear states the winch function is for recovery only and must not be used for access or egress, and the user instructions add that it must never be used for lifting or lowering loads.

The housing is alloy, the line is 5 mm galvanised wire, and the unit weighs 11 kg. The data sheet gives approximate dimensions of 97 cm overall length with 34 cm, 22 cm, 12 cm, 9 cm and 6 cm sections. When the block is mounted on a rescue tripod rather than an anchor point, the instructions say the tripod method is in the tripod user instructions.

Key features as printed in the datasheet

• Retractable fall arrester with built-in rescue winch (EN 360:2002 and EN 1496:2017 B).
• VG11.060 edge testing; polyester shock pack.
• Handle turn ratio 1:10; handle force ratio 1:10.
• 15 m galvanised wire; maximum force below 6 kN; 140 kg maximum user weight.
• Built-in fall indicator; double-action swivel karabiner.
• Activation of the rescue function is shown on the product marking.

Technical specification

RGA4/EDGE data as printed

Selection and ordering guide

Pick the RGA4 when the rescue plan relies on lifting or lowering a casualty from the same device, for example in confined or vessel-top work. If rescue will be done by other means, the lighter RGA3/EDGE on this site is simpler. The leaflet also warns that after a fall over an edge it may not be possible to raise the casualty to safety, so lowering is recommended in that situation.

During rescue, the rescuer must keep direct or indirect visual contact or other communication with the rescuee at all times.

Installation and operation notes

Mount vertically from a suitable anchor or inclined on a Ridgegear tripod. Pre-use checks include the locking mechanism and, on the RGA4, a function check of the rescue device. Anchor strength is at least 12 kN, and free space below the feet of at least 2.5 m must be kept, adding 3 m for horizontal use.

The outer screws form part of the internal braking mechanism and must never be tampered with; servicing is annual by Ridgegear or approved agents.

Notified body marking on the leaflet refers to CE module B (SATRA Technology Europe) and module D (BSI, ID 2797) under PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425. The inspection list adds a check of the rescue device function to the usual wire, metal, textile energy absorber and marking checks, and the periodic examination must take account of environmental conditions, particularly offshore use. Keep the record card up to date with first-use and inspection dates, and if the block is resold outside its original country, instructions in the local language must be provided.

Applications in Oman and the GCC

Tank tops, towers, shafts, and structures where a rapid recovery matters more than self-rescue. In hot GCC conditions plan how long a suspended worker can wait; the instructions stress the user will require rescue after a fall.

Use it only with a full body harness and a rescue-trained team.

Storage guidance: keep the block clean and dry, away from heat, sunlight and sharp or abrasive objects; if it gets wet, extend the cable fully and let it dry naturally; do not wash it.

Compatible accessories and related items

Related Ridgegear items on this site: RGA3/EDGE, RGH7 and RGH17 harnesses, RGHL1 lifeline. A Ridgegear rescue tripod is described in the instructions.

Frequently asked questions

What does the RGA4 add over the RGA3?

A recovery winch with 1:10 turn and force ratios, certified to EN 1496:2017 B.

Can the winch be used for access?

No; Ridgegear says recovery only, not access or egress, and never for loads.

What does it weigh?

11 kg.

Is the wire length 15 m?

Yes, 15 m of 5 mm galvanised wire.

Does Seven Star LLC act as a Ridgegear distributor?

No, we are an independent supplier in Muscat and supply Ridgegear items on request rather than acting as a Ridgegear channel partner.

Documents and quotation

Download the official Ridgegear data sheet for RGA4 from this page. As an independent supplier based in Muscat, Seven Star LLC supplies Ridgegear items on request: use the quote form with the quantity you need. Check every value in the document against your own specification before you order. Browse similar items in the category.