Any workplace where workers are at risk of falling needs fall protection. Workplaces such as construction sites, power plants and oil rigs need this type protection. Fall protection is ensured using a wide variety of equipment. For instance, handrails on steep ladders and attachment points for safety harnesses are both examples of fall protection. 

During a fall protection inspection, all the fall protection equipment in a facility is inspected for proper operation and maintenance. It’s vital that safety managers know specific things about fall protection inspections and what they’re meant to prevent. 

Why should safety managers know about fall protection
inspections?

Managers must be familiar with all aspects of fall protection, including inspections. Fall protection equipment and training are the first steps in ensuring worker safety. Fall protection equipment must be inspected to reduce the risk of fall-related deaths and help prevent fall-related injuries.

3 things you should know about fall protection inspection

Fall protection audits are challenging for even the most competent safety manager, but understanding more about the process can help. Here are three things you should know about fall protection inspections:

1.Inspection is a must — A documented inspection program can ensure that your fall protection equipment is as safe as possible. That’s why OSHA requires that fall protection be provided and inspected for workers working at specific heights and with certain equipment. They also require that companies inspect their equipment regularly and document and report any deficiencies.

2. Inspectors need to be trained thoroughly —Inspecting fall protection equipment takes more than just a quick glance through the manual from the manufacturer. To effectively inspect each piece of equipment, you need to understand how it works, what it is made of and how it is used. Those who do not have this knowledge are not qualified to perform safety inspection services. 

With these facts in mind, companies should assign and train competent personnel so they are capable of properly auditing fall protection systems. The training should include how to identify deficiencies, recognize hazardous conditions, and make informed decisions about the equipment’s use or replacement.

3. You must follow the inspector’s instructions — Inspectors will make you aware of any issues and recommend how to fix them or what needs to be replaced under OSHA standards. It is vital that companies act on these recommendations in a timely manner. Otherwise, workers remain at higher risk of falls that could result in injury or death. 

When it comes to fall protection evaluations, you can never be too careful. During every project, you want to make a point of checking each one of your fall protection systems and their individual components. You’ll want to make sure they are secure, sturdy and reliable. The last thing you want is someone falling and injuring themselves while they are on the job. Doing regular fall protection audits help ensure that those working on your site are safe when they’re up in the air or down on the ground.

Are you ready to improve your company’s fall protection
systems? Basin Safety can help

Make sure your supervisors know how to inspect various fall protection systems like rails, nets, cordons and harnesses. The Basin Safety team can train your personnel to inspect these and other fall protection systems.

Basin Safety also has a team of highly trained inspectors that can help you inspect your facility. They can help ensure that your fall protection equipment is serviceable and that you’re following all relevant fall protection guidelines. 

Speak to one of our representatives about conducting an on-site fall protection audit or to learn more about our fall protection inspection training.