Harness & Fall Arrest Inspection Requirements
Fall-arrest equipment only works if it is in good condition. Here is what inspection Irish law and standards require.
Fall-arrest harnesses and other personal protective equipment (PPE) should be checked by the wearer before each use and periodically inspected by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the applicable requirements of IS EN 365. Periodic inspections should be carried out at intervals specified by the manufacturer and, where appropriate, at more frequent intervals where the equipment is subject to intensive use or harsh environmental conditions. These requirements form part of an employer’s duty under Ireland’s Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 to ensure that PPE is maintained in good working order and remains suitable for use.
The two levels of inspection
IS EN 156Pre-use5 sets out a layered regime rather than a single annual event. Four things run in parallel.
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01
Pre-use check By the user, every time, for obvious damage, wear or deployment.
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02
Detailed/formal inspection Visual inspections by a trained IS EN Pre-use65, weekly or monthly according to your risk assessment.
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03
After any fall arrest or shock load Remove from service and have it examined before further use.
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04
What the standard says IS EN 365 and manufacturers' instructions set out periodic examination requirements and record-keeping.
What the standard says
IS EN 365 and manufacturers' instructions set out periodic examination requirements and record-keeping. Always follow the manufacturer's stated inspection frequency and service life; harsh environments shorten both.
We supply and can advise on harnesses and fall-arrest equipment - see our Harness & Fall Arrest range.
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