In this safety toolbox talk, we delve into the details of fall protection harness inspection. Harness inspections are a key aspect of fall protection safety and are required by OSHA, therefore it is not enough to simply use harnesses. Your harnesses need to be in good condition to perform their intended purpose so they can save your life in a fall! A free harness inspection checklist is available in the Resources section.
Schedule & Document Harness Inspections
OSHA requires that fall protection harness inspections are performed on a regular basis. Establish a regular harness inspection schedule for your jobsite and document each inspection. Prepare for your regular inspections by gathering all of your harnesses in one location so they can be inspected by a competent person. Proper prep and organization of your inspections allows for each harness can be thoroughly checked and prevents you from missing harnesses on your jobsite.
Components of a Fall Protection Harness
The person in charge of harness inspection should know the components of a fall protection harness. Here is a list of the components that need to be inspected:
- Webbing & Stitching
- Hardware – Straps, Buckles & D-Rings
- Lanyards & Self Retracting Life Lines (Yoyos)
- Labels & Markings
Step-by-Step Fall Protection Harness Inspection Process
Let’s walk through fall protection harness inspection process in detail. Understanding each component ensures our gear is reliable when it matters most. Remember that any harness that has sustained impact or was worn during a fall needs to be de-commissioned.
Visual Inspection: Straps, Buckles, and D-Rings
Start visually examining the straps. Look for any signs of wear, cuts, or damage. Check the fibers on woven straps to see if they are frayed, pulled, burnt or worn out. Discoloration of fibers is a common a sign that the fibers are damaged. This may indicate the harness should be taken out of service. Move on to the buckles – they should fasten securely without signs of stress or breakage. Finally, give those D-rings a close look; they’re our anchors. Hardware should be free of corrosion, deformity and sharp edges. Ensure hardware components operate and fasten smoothly.
Impact Indicators, Lanyards & Connecting Devices
Modern harnesses are equipped with impact indicators. They open when the harness sustains an impact in a fall. Make sure all impact indicators are closed. Check all of your lanyards and connecting devices. Lanyard fibers should be free from damage – as on your harness. The impact absorbing lanyards should be unopened and their casing in good condition. Self retracting life lines should operate smoothly and be free from frayed cables and cracks to the casing.
Inspection of Labels and Markings
All harnesses must have labels with date of manufacture, so Inspect labels to ensure they are legible and not past the service life of the harness.
Webbing and Stitching Examination
Let’s talk about webbing and stitching. Grasp the webbing in your hands and bend it to either side. Look closely for fraying, cuts, or loose stitches. Also, check for shiny / brittle components and discoloration that could be tell tale signs that the harness is burnt or worn out. How the harness feels in your hands is just as important as how it looks. Does is feel flexible and smooth or brittle and stiff? These seemingly small details can mean the difference between a safe harness and one that should be taken out of service.
Fall Protection Harness Inspection Training and Education
Training is key. Make sure everyone knows these inspection procedures. Educate the team on self-inspection practices because safety is everyone’s responsibility.
For more information on Fall Protection see our Fall Protection Toolbox Talk
Print and download our free fall protection harness inspection checklist