Fall Protection Equipment Checklist

The Short Answer: A fall protection equipment checklist ensures harnesses, lanyards, self-retracting lifelines and anchor points are inspected before each use. Regular inspections help identify damage, wear or defects that could lead to equipment failure during a fall.

Why Equipment Checks Matter

Fall protection equipment is only effective when it is properly inspected and maintained. A harness with frayed webbing or a self-retracting lifeline with damaged housing can fail when a worker needs it most.

Many incidents occur due to overlooked wear, damage or improper use. These failures are preventable with consistent pre-use inspections that catch problems before work begins.

A fall protection equipment checklist gives crews a reliable process for verifying that every component is ready for the job. This guide outlines what to check, why it matters and how inspections support safer jobsites.

When Inspections Should Take Place

Fall protection inspections aren't just an annual requirement. Your equipment should be checked across multiple points to ensure proper functioning and compliance.

Inspect fall protection gear:

• Before each use as part of daily jobsite preparation

• After any fall event or shock load

• When equipment is returned from storage or rental

• During routine scheduled inspections required by company policy

• Anytime equipment condition is in question

A fall arrest system that appears serviceable may still have sustained unnoticed damage during transport or storage. Crews should treat every inspection as if it's the first time they've seen the equipment. When in doubt, always remove the component from service until it can be evaluated by a competent person and confirmed as safe.

Harness Inspection Checklist

A full body harness is the foundation of any quality personal fall arrest system. Inspecting it thoroughly before each use helps ensure it will perform as designed during a fall.

Check the following before donning a harness:

• Webbing: Look for cuts, frays, burns, abrasions or chemical damage. Damaged webbing compromises strength and should be removed from service.

• Stitching: Check for loose, broken or pulled threads, especially at load-bearing connection points.

• D-Rings: Examine for cracks, distortion, corrosion or rough edges. D-Rings must move freely and sit flat when not under load.

• Buckles: Verify that buckles adjust smoothly and lock securely. Test pass-thru and quick-connect mechanisms for proper engagement.

• Labels: Confirm labels are present and readable. Missing or illegible labels make it impossible to verify compliance or manufacturer specifications.

If any of these components fail inspection, remove the harness from service immediately.

Lanyards and Self-Retracting Devices

Lanyards and self-retracting lifelines connect the harness via anchor points. Any defect in these components can compromise the entire fall protection system.

Lanyard Inspection

• Inspect webbing or rope for cuts, abrasions, burns or broken fibers

• Check snap hooks and carabiners for cracks, corrosion or improper gate closure

• Verify shock absorber pack is intact and has not been deployed

Self-Retracting Lifeline Inspection

• Examine housing for cracks, dents or deformation

• Check the lifeline for cuts, kinks, abrasions or frayed strands

• Ensure connectors lock and close properly

• Test retraction by pulling the lifeline out and letting it return smoothly

• Verify braking function by giving the lifeline a quick tug to confirm it locks

Remove any lanyard or self-retracting lifeline from service if defects are found. Never attempt field repairs on fall protection equipment as it can further damage and adds additional risk.

Anchorage and Connector Checks

Anchor points are the foundation of how fall protection systems connect. If the anchorage fails, nothing else in the system can protect the worker.

Anchor Point Verification

• Confirm anchor points are rated for fall arrest and approved for the intended use

• Verify the anchorage can support at least 5,000 lbs.per worker attached

• Ensure anchorage locations minimize swing fall hazards and provide adequate fall clearance

• Never use makeshift or unapproved anchor points such as conduit, vents or unsecured structures

Connector Inspection

• Inspect carabiners, snap hooks and D-Rings for cracks, sharp edges or excessive wear

• Verify gates close completely and lock without sticking

• Check for corrosion or deformation that could affect strength

• Confirm compatibility between connectors and other system components

Incompatible components can lead to rollout or accidental disengagement. Always verify that each connector is designed to work with the rest of the fall protection system. Malta Dynamics equipment is engineered for compatibility across our full line of harnesses, lanyards and anchor points.

Common Issues That Lead to Equipment Failure

Even well-maintained fall protection gear can fail if crews overlook certain risks. Understanding common issues helps prevent equipment failures before they happen.

Using Damaged or Outdated Equipment

Worn webbing, cracked D-Rings or frayed lifelines may still look functional but can fail under load. If equipment shows signs of damage, remove it from service.

Mixing Incompatible Components

Not all connectors work with all anchor points or harnesses. Mismatched components can lead to rollout, improper engagement or reduced load capacity.

Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions

Every piece of fall protection equipment comes with specific guidelines for use, inspection and retirement. Skipping these instructions can void compliance and put workers at risk.

Continuing Use After a Fall Event

Any equipment involved in a fall arrest must be removed from service and inspected by a competent person. Internal damage may not be visible but can compromise performance.

Documentation and Accountability

Inspections only matter if they're documented and followed through. Proper recordkeeping supports compliance and helps identify patterns before they become problems.

Recording Inspections

Document inspections as required by company policy or OSHA requirements. Include the date, inspector name, equipment serial number and condition notes. Consistent records create a clear history of each piece of equipment.

Tagging and Removing Damaged Equipment

When equipment fails inspection, tag it clearly and remove it from the jobsite. Damaged gear left in circulation puts workers at risk and can lead to more injuries onsite.

Assigning Responsibility

Designate specific people who are responsible for conducting inspections, tracking equipment condition and authorizing replacements. Inspection is a vital part of the job, not merely an extra step. Accountability ensures nothing gets overlooked.

Key Takeaways for Crews and Safety Managers

A fall protection equipment checklist is one of the simplest ways to prevent equipment failure on the jobsite. Keep these points in mind:

• Inspections are a critical layer of fall protection, not optional prep work

• A consistent checklist helps catch damage, wear and defects before they cause a failure

• Small issues can lead to serious consequences if ignored

• Documentation and accountability ensure inspections actually happen

Whether you're on the crew or managing one, treating equipment checks as part of the job keeps everyone safer at height.

At Malta Dynamics, we design fall protection equipment built for real jobsite conditions. From harnesses and lanyards to self-retracting lifelines and anchors, our gear is field-tested and ready to perform.

Explore our full line of fall protection equipment or contact our team to find the right solutions for your crew.