Petzl ABSORBICA-Y MGO International Energy-Absorbing Lanyard

A twin-leg energy-absorbing lanyard for moving between anchors

The Petzl ABSORBICA-Y MGO international version (references L012BB00 and L014BB01) is a double lanyard with a compact energy absorber, designed for progression on a vertical structure or along a horizontal lifeline, and for passing intermediate anchors. It is delivered ready to use: two large-opening MGO connectors on the lanyard ends and a Bm’D connector for harness attachment. It is intended for users weighing between 60 and 140 kg.

In a fall, progressive tearing of the energy absorber webbing limits the impact force on the user. The absorber is housed in a durable fabric pouch with a simple opening system, which protects it from abrasion and contaminants while allowing regular inspection. Petzl offers two versions: 80, with rope arms, and 150 FLEX, with elasticized arms that avoid hindering progression.

Technical specifications

Ordering and related lanyards

Quote the full reference: L012BB00 for the 80 version and L014BB01 for the 150 FLEX version. Petzl lists related lanyards separately, without the MGO connectors as supplied here: ABSORBICA-Y 80 (L012AB00, 70 to 100 cm, 240 g), ABSORBICA-Y 150 (L014AB01, 153 to 183 cm, 275 g) and the single-leg ABSORBICA-I 80 (L011AB00, 170 g), which is for a horizontal lifeline or elevated platform without passing intermediate anchors. Petzl notes that certifications depend on the connectors used.

Selection, clearance and inspection

Pick the Y (double) lanyard when the worker must stay connected while moving between anchors. Fall clearance is critical with any energy-absorbing lanyard: Petzl publishes a clearance calculator based on user weight and lanyard length, and the instructions for use specify a minimum distance between the anchor and the ground. The instructions for use give a minimum of 6.1 m (20 ft) between the anchor and the ground as the result of testing. The anchor must meet EN 795 and any sag created by the anchor device must be included in the clearance calculation. Lifespan is given as 10 years, with a detailed inspection by a competent person at least once every 12 months and a check of the absorber pouch before each use.

Key features of the MGO international version

• Supplied as a complete, ready-to-use system: lanyard, energy absorber, two MGO large-opening connectors and a Bm’D harness connector.
• Compact energy absorber in a fabric pouch that protects the tear webbing from abrasion, dirt and UV while still opening for inspection.
• Two arm options: rope arms on the 80 version for shorter reach, and elasticized webbing arms on the 150 FLEX that stay short when unloaded and extend when needed.
• Large-opening MGO connectors designed to clip onto structural members such as rebar, ladder rungs and steel sections.
• Wide user weight range of 60 to 140 kg under EN 355.
• Multi-standard marking, which helps contractors working for clients who specify EN, ANSI or CSA equipment.

How 100 percent tie-off works with a Y lanyard

The purpose of a double lanyard is to keep the worker attached at every moment. When the user reaches an intermediate anchor, the free arm is clipped to the next anchor point before the other arm is released. At no point should both arms be unclipped. Both arms of the Y must never be clipped into anchors that would load the absorber in a way the instructions forbid, and the unused arm must not be clipped back onto the harness at a point that could interfere with the absorber in a fall; follow the parking instructions in the Petzl notice.

Choosing between the 80 and 150 FLEX

The shorter 80 version limits free fall distance and is easier to manage on ladders and lattice structures where anchors are close together. The 150 FLEX version gives more reach between widely spaced anchors and is often chosen on steel erection or when traversing along beams. Longer arms mean a longer potential fall, so the clearance below the user must be checked for the version actually chosen.

Inspection and retirement

• Inspect before each use: webbing, stitching, rope arms, connectors and the absorber pouch.
• Open the pouch periodically to check the absorber has not started to deploy; a lanyard that has arrested a fall must be retired.
• Check that connector gates close and lock fully and are free of sand and corrosion.
• Record a detailed inspection by a competent person at least every 12 months, as Petzl recommends for its PPE, and keep the record with the equipment.
• Keep the lanyard away from chemicals, sharp edges and heat sources such as welding spatter.

Use in Oman and GCC conditions

Typical users include telecom tower climbers, scaffolders, steel erectors, wind and solar contractors, and maintenance teams on refinery structures and offshore platforms. Strong sun degrades textiles over time, so store lanyards out of direct sunlight when not in use and avoid leaving them in vehicle cabins. On coastal and offshore sites, rinse connectors in fresh water after exposure to salt spray and let them dry naturally. Sand in connector gates is a common cause of poor gate closure in desert areas, which makes the daily function check particularly relevant.

What to include in your enquiry

• Reference: L012BB00 (80) or L014BB01 (150 FLEX), and quantity.
• Compatible harness models in use, so the Bm’D attachment can be confirmed.
• Standards your client or site requires, such as EN 355, ANSI Z359.13 or CSA Z259.11-17.
• Whether rescue equipment or anchors are needed as part of the same package.
• Delivery location and required date.

Documents and quotation

The attached Petzl instructions for use cover the ABSORBICA-Y MGO lanyards. Confirm the exact reference, size or length, the standard required on site (CE, ANSI or CSA) and the compatibility of every component before ordering. For a quotation, send the reference, quantity and intended use. Browse more Safety and PPE products on this site.