5 Steps to Take Before Using a Harness
March 16, 2020
When working from an elevated area, properly inspect all gear before every use of a fall protection harness. The five inspection steps below take only a few moments to perform and can prevent injury, or perhaps loss of life.
- Look for missing parts
- Look for missing or illegible markings or warnings
- Inspect for damage to metal parts; any change, crack, sharp edge, distortion, corrosion, chemical damage, too much heating or too much wear
- Examine defect or damage to straps or ropes; any change, fraying, separating, unlaying, kinking, knotting, roping, broken or pulled stitch, abrasion, excessive oiling, or aged section with too much dirt or wear
- Look for missing parts, signs of defect, damage or improper working mechanical parts and connectors
When inspecting a harness, tag it “DO NOT USE” and remove from service if any part is defective, damaged, needs maintenance or repair. Never use a harness if repair or maintenance is needed.
Click here to learn more on harness training and inspection. Also, for additional information regarding fall protection visit the online safety library.