Fall protection equipment should be inspected regularly. Here's a breakdown of the inspection requirements:

• Before Each Use: Personal fall arrest systems must be inspected prior to each use for mildew, wear, damage, and other deterioration 2, 9, 14. Defective components must be removed from service if their strength or function may be adversely affected [1].
• Regular Inspections: Personal fall arrest systems must be regularly inspected [2].
• Periodic Inspections: A competent person should inspect fall-protection systems periodically as recommended by the manufacturer, installer, or an engineer [3].

Any system or component subjected to impact loading must be immediately removed from service and not used again until inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable for reuse 4, 9, 14.

It is also important to ensure that equipment used as part of a fall protection system is kept free from substances and conditions that could contribute to its deterioration [4].