Inspections and Maintenance of Safety Harnesses

Falls from platforms continue to be one of the most common incidents involving powered access equipment which is why fall protection is not just a precaution, it’s a necessity.

Safety harnesses and lanyards are life-saving pieces of equipment and act as the last line of defence against a potentially fatal fall. However, if misused or neglected, this can put operators at unnecessary risk.

Common Faults

Many indicators of damage can be easy to overlook. If a safety harness is used daily, this will result in the equipment showing signs of deterioration much quicker so it’s crucial that any faults are identified prior to use.

Leaving harnesses and lanyards in direct sunlight, such as in the back on a vehicle or on a windowsill, can be extremely damaging. Over time, ultraviolet (UV) rays can weaken the webbing and stitching, compromising the strength of the equipment.

Many operators have a habit of placing the harness on the floor before stepping into the harness and putting it on. Seeming like a harmless and convenient action, but in fact placing the equipment on the floor exposes it to oil, dirt and sharp debris. These chemicals can cause the material to degrade or become damaged.

Operators may decide to write on their harnesses to identify that it is theirs, or to differentiate equipment. The chemicals found in permanent markers or pens can weaken the fibres and possibly obscure vital information such as serial numbers and expiry dates. An alternative to distinguish between safety harnesses would be coloured cable ties which will not cause any damage or hide key information.

Manufacturers give all safety harnesses an expiry date. Materials can break down over time, causing the harnesses to become unreliable and unsafe. No matter how good it may look, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidance.

Inspections

A safety harness and lanyard should be inspected before and after use:

• Look – visually inspect the harness, checking for cuts, frays, burns or signs of damage.
• Feel – physically check for anything unusual that may suggest hidden damage.
• Function – can the harness carry out its intended use? Test buckles to make sure they lock and release correctly.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that a documented inspection should be caried out by a competent professional approximately every six months. Depending on the environment you operate in, you may need to conduct these checks more regularly.

Maintenance and Storage

Never assume that one cleaning product will be suitable for all types of harnesses. The manufacturer’s instructions should be followed when cleaning equipment.

Safety harnesses should be kept in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. The storage area should be in a safe place, away from unauthorised use and inaccessible to rodents. Chemicals such as acids, alkalis and solvents should be kept away from the equipment which could damage the materials.

As an IPAF training centre, we can deliver fully accredited IPAF approved safety harness training. This can be completed remotely as e-learning, or instructor led at our training centre of your own site. Upon completion of IPAF’s Harness Awareness and Harness User courses, delegates will gain the skills and knowledge to implement strategies for checking and maintaining equipment.

For more information, contact us today and one of our experienced team of training co-ordinators will be more than happy to help.