How often should fall protection equipment be inspected?
Generated on: September 10, 2025
To ensure worker safety and regulatory compliance, fall protection equipment must be inspected with the following frequencies:
- Prior to each use: A worker should inspect their connecting linkage, personal fall arrest system, full body harness, or lifeline before each use. Any defects or conditions that could endanger a worker must be addressed immediately by repairing the defect or correcting the condition.
- Regularly by a Competent Person: A competent person must inspect personal fall arrest systems no less than twice annually, documenting the date of each inspection.
- After Impact Loading: Any personal fall protection system or component subjected to impact loading must be immediately removed from service and inspected by a competent person to ensure it is undamaged and safe for use.
- Safety Nets: Safety nets should be inspected at least once a week for wear, damage, and other deterioration. They should also be inspected after any occurrence that could affect the integrity of the system. Defective nets should not be used.
In addition to these inspection frequencies, it's important to:
Important Safety Note:
Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.
References
Page links are approximate[2]↑
OSHA Construction Industry Standards Requiring Programs, Inspections, Procedures Records and/or Training (NCDOL)
Open DocumentPage 142
[3]↑
Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 29 CFR 1910) - 1910 Subpart I App C - Personal Fall Protection Systems Non-Mandatory Guidelines
Open DocumentPage 3