Safety harnesses are a crucial part of equipment. Harnesses keep workers safe from fall-related injuries, which are the number one cause of jobsite accidents. Keeping your equipment inspected and in working order is the single most important factor for safety.
Here are some tips which will help.
INSPECTING YOUR HARNESS
You must inspect all components (including hardware, lanyards, and positioning harnesses or full body harnesses depending on which system is used) of personal fall arrest systems, personal fall restraint systems, and positioning device systems prior to each use according to manufacturer’s specifications for mildew, wear, damage, and other deterioration. You must remove defective components from service if their function or strength has been adversely affected.
Webbing – Look for:
- Cuts, nicks, and tears
- Broken fibers or cracks
- Overall deterioration
- Fraying and abrasions
- Hard or shiny spots
Stitching – Look for:
- Pulled stitches
- Missing stitching
- Cut stitches
- Discoloration of stitches
Hardware – Look for:
- Distortion (twists, bends)
- Rough or sharp edges
- Rust or corrosion
- Broken/distorted grommets
- Modifications by users
CLEANING AND STORAGE
- Wipe off all surface dirt with a sponge dampened in plain water. Squeeze the sponge dry. Dip the sponge in a mild solution of water and mild detergent. Work up a thick lather, with a vigorous back and forth motion. Then wipe dry with a clean cloth.
- Hang freely to dry, away from excessive heat, steam, or sunlight.
- Storage areas should be clean, dry, and free of exposure to fumes, heat, direct ultra-violet light, sunlight and corrosive elements.
