PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) care, maintenance, and inspection are essential aspects of ensuring the effectiveness and safety of these equipment items. Proper care and maintenance of PPE, such as harnesses, lanyards with shock absorbers, retractable webbing lanyards, ropes, webbing slings, temporary static lines, work positioning lanyards and safety helmets, helps prolong their lifespan and ensure that they function correctly when needed.
To identify, inspect, and maintain height safety equipment, we have set out criteria for your guidance. This includes:
INSPECTION
FREQUENCY OF INSPECTION
RECORD OF PPE INSPECTION
MAINTENANCE
STORAGE
INSPECTION
All items of equipment that are in regular use shall be subjected to periodic formal inspection (testing and tagging) and, where applicable, servicing in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Where an operator is not competent to carry out this inspection, the inspection shall be carried out by an operator who is competent or a height safety supervisor.
Key things to inspect on your PPE include.
DOM / DOW
Standards
webbing
Structural stitching
Buckles / Connectors
Metal burrs
Inspection Checklist: During inspections, follow a checklist to ensure a thorough examination of each equipment item. Some common points to consider include:
Visual inspection:
Check for any signs of wear, cuts, abrasions, fraying, or discoloration.
Connectors:
Inspect hooks, buckles, carabiners, or other connectors for deformities, cracks, or malfunctioning mechanisms.
Webbing and ropes:
Look for any signs of damage, such as cuts, burns, or excessive wear. Pay attention to stitching integrity.
Shock absorbers: Examine shock absorbers for proper functionality and signs of damage.
Labels and markings: Ensure that all labels, markings, and identification tags are legible and up to date.
FREQUENCY OF INSPECTION
Regular inspections should be conducted to identify any signs of damage, wear, or other issues that may affect the performance of PPE. The frequency of inspections depends on the type of equipment and the manufacturer's recommendations. Generally, a visual inspection should be performed before each use, and a more detailed inspection should occur at regular intervals.
All components of personal fall protection and fall arrest systems must be inspected by a competent person at intervals of no more than six months.
3 monthly inspections
Fall arrest devices (type 1), ropes, and adjusters/fall arrest devices.
6 monthly inspections
Harnesses, Lanyards with shock absorbers, Retractable webbing lanyards, All ropes, Webbing slings, temporary static lines, Work positioning lanyards.
12 months
Anchors, Tripods, Pulleys, hardware, and self-retracting lifelines (type 2 & 3)
RECORD OF PPE INSPECTION
It is crucial to maintain records of PPE inspections and maintenance activities. These records can help track the history of each equipment item, monitor its condition over time, and ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations. Record information should include the date of inspection, the person conducting the inspection, any identified issues, and the actions taken (e.g., repairs or replacements).
MAINTENANCE
Proper maintenance practices contribute to the longevity and reliability of PPE. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning, storage, and any specific maintenance requirements. Some general maintenance practices include:
Cleaning:
Remove dirt, debris, or contaminants using a specialist cleaner or a mild detergent and water. Wash with a soft, non-abrasive brush or sponge and allow to air dry after removing the excess water with a dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may degrade the materials.
Drying:
Ensure that PPE is thoroughly dried before storage to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Hang the webbing products in a well-ventilated area to allow air circulation. Use a dedicated drying space or a location with good airflow. Do not expose them to direct sunlight during the drying process. While drying, ensure that buckles and hardware are open to allow thorough drying. This prevents the accumulation of moisture in concealed areas. Avoid using artificial heat sources, such as radiators or heaters, as excessive heat can damage the webbing material. Allow it to air-dry completely before storing or using it again.
mets in individual bags made of breathable materials such as fabric or mesh. This will protect the helmet from scratches and prevent exposure to sunlight. Store away from other tools or equipment that could potentially degrade the shell and internal protective lining.
Repairs:
Any damaged or malfunctioning PPE should be repaired or replaced immediately. Do not attempt to repair PPE unless you are trained and authorised to do so.
STORAGE
Personal protection equipment (harnesses, lanyards, etc.), along with connectors and other related items, should be stored in a clean, dry environment free from direct sunlight, dust, excessive heat, and harmful chemicals.
Store webbing type PPE in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or chemicals that could cause damage.
Store helmets in individual bags made of breathable materials such as fabric or mesh. This will protect the helmet from scratches and prevent exposure to sunlight. Store away from other tools or equipment that could potentially degrade the shell and internal protective lining.
Remember, the information provided here is a general overview of ZERO PPE, and it's essential to consult the specific guidelines and instructions provided by the manufacturers of your PPE. Following these guidelines will help ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your PPE and promote a safe working environment.