Fall protection equipment is vital to protecting people who work at heights. To ensure that the equipment is working efficiently and in excellent condition, you should have your fall protection equipment inspected annually.
OSHA has many guidelines on fall protection systems so workers can stay safe. One of the requirements is for employers to carry out periodic inspections of fall protection equipment in harnesses, lifelines, ropes and self-retracting devices. Inspections help ensure that equipment has been properly cared for and that workers are safe when using it.
Worker safety is the top priority of any workplace. This is why it is crucial to use the right equipment and fall protection equipment when working at height. Drop protection inspections are an important way to ensure that your devices continue to perform at their best.
Fall Protection Inspection Requirements
According to OSHA guidelines, fall protection equipment must be inspected annually. Depending on your equipment and working conditions, you may need more frequent inspections. OSHA specifies that the annual inspection must be performed by a Competent Person: a person who has completed Competent Person training and is designated by their employer.
This annual inspection by the competent person can take a considerable amount of time because it examines the specific characteristics of each piece of equipment. The inspector will examine the equipment to ensure there are few or no defects, such as:
- Significant tears, cuts or undue stretching.
- mold, mildew or pests.
- Alterations that affect the efficiency of a worker.
- Damages for deterioration.
- corrosion
- Defective hooks and springs.
- Damaged or loose mounts.
- Parts that don’t work.
- Pre-use inspection
In addition to annual fall protection inspections, pre-use examinations must be performed daily. Pre-use checks are standard tests you should do before putting on your fall protection equipment, every time.
Check all parts of your fall protection system to make sure they work and connect properly and that all writing on the manufacturer’s label is legible.
With daily pre-use inspections, you can detect rust or deterioration faster and avoid workplace incidents or hazards. These signs may indicate that you may need a replacement sooner rather than later.
If you wear a fall protection harness, make sure it fits snugly and that all support holes and D-rings are in the correct place.
Fall protection inspection documentation
Also, document all information from any annual or major fall protection equipment inspections, such as each time you check your devices, harnesses, and safety lanyards. Documentation will help you track the wear and tear on your equipment.
Fall protection equipment reviews
When it comes to equipment inspections, following OSHA’s fall protection inspection requirements is crucial to worker safety and continued productivity. Remember to inspect all of your fall protection equipment, even if it’s not currently in use.
Periodic inspections and periodic reviews
OSHA mandates periodic inspections of fall protection equipment to identify defective components and ensure compliance with manufacturers’ fall protection requirements and recommendations. These inspections should be meticulously documented to maintain a record of the equipment’s condition over time, helping to ensure that all equipment meets the required safety standards before use.
Periodic inspection frequencies may vary depending on the conditions of use and exposure of the equipment to environmental factors. For example, in highly corrosive environments or where equipment is used daily, more frequent inspections are recommended.
Preparation and rescue team
It is vital that workplaces have rescue plans and rescue equipment available and regularly inspected. This includes ensuring that all personnel involved in high-risk activities are trained in emergency procedures and the use of rescue equipment. Training should be provided by a competent lifeguard who can educate workers on the proper use of self-retracting lifelines, horizontal lifelines, and other critical safety equipment.
Every piece of equipment, from harnesses to lifelines, must be chosen based on the specific needs of the job and the environment, following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure both effectiveness and compliance with safety standards. safety
Permanent commitment to safety in the construction sector
Maintaining a focus on workplace safety and complying with OSHA regulations is an ongoing process that requires regular updates and ongoing education. Ensuring that all fall protection systems and their components, including anchor points, are regularly inspected is crucial to worker safety and productivity. These efforts help mitigate the risks associated with working at height and ensure that all safety measures are effective and up-to-date.
Fall Safety Inspections with Malta Dynamics
If you need safety inspections completed, Malta Dynamics has you covered. We offer fall safety inspections as part of the basic on-site hazard analysis to ensure you and your crew have the right equipment and protective systems.
During this one-day inspection service, our qualified professionals will go over the ABC’s of fall protection training with your team. We will also carry out a site visit, security equipment assessment and a basic assessment of your facility.
You can learn more about our safety inspection services or schedule an inspection with us by filling out our form or calling us at 800-494-1840.
