Personal Fall Protection System Inspection Frequency

To ensure worker safety and regulatory compliance, personal fall protection systems and components require regular inspections. These inspections are crucial for identifying wear, damage, and other deterioration that could compromise the system's effectiveness. There are two primary inspection frequencies: before each use and annually by a qualified person.

Inspection Frequency Requirements

• Before Each Use: Personal fall arrest systems and positioning device systems must be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage, and other deterioration. Defective components must be removed from service. This inspection should be performed by the user or a competent person. For external fall arrest systems on aerial work platforms, a visual inspection of components such as cables, fittings, brackets, attachment rings, and attaching hardware must be performed before each use. Specific attention should be paid to cable tension, broken strands, corrosion, loose fittings, fractures, and any signs of damage to ensure all components are in proper working condition.
• Annually: External fall arrest systems require an annual inspection and certification by a qualified person other than the user. This annual inspection ensures the system meets the required safety standards and is fit for continued use. If the fall arrest system is used to arrest a fall or is otherwise damaged, the entire system must be replaced and the platform fully inspected before being returned to service.

Detailed Inspection Procedures

Pre-Use Inspection Details

• Cables: Inspect for proper tension, broken strands, kinks, and corrosion.
• Fittings & Brackets: Ensure all fittings are tight and there are no fractures. Inspect brackets for any damage.
• Attachment Ring: Look for cracks, wear, or corrosion. Any signs of these require replacement.
• Attaching Hardware: Verify that all attaching hardware is present, properly tightened, and shows no signs of damage.
• Platform Rails: Check for any visible damage.

Post-Fall Inspection

Personal fall arrest systems and components subjected to impact loading must be immediately removed from service and not used again for employee protection until inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable for reuse. [2]

Importance of Prompt Rescue

In addition to regular inspections, employers must provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or ensure that employees are able to rescue themselves. This includes having a plan in place and the necessary equipment available for a swift and safe rescue. [1]

Regulatory Compliance

Adhering to the inspection frequencies and guidelines outlined in OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502 and manufacturer recommendations is essential for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring worker safety. Proper inspection and maintenance of fall protection systems can significantly reduce the risk of fall-related injuries and fatalities.

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