8/22/2007

In Las Vegas, three iron workers fell from a 30-foot wall while working on a casino under construction. All three of the workers were wearing fall harnesses; one of the harnesses failed, and the worker fell to the ground. He subsequently died. While the cause of the accident and why the fall harness failed remain under investigation, the incident is a reminder that fall arrest systems can mean the difference between life and death, and that it is important to ensure that fall arrest systems are in proper working condition. The following are points to remember when it comes to maintaining fall arrest systems:

• Inspect equipment thoroughly prior to each use—even if it's used daily and was inspected the day before. If equipment is only used occasionally, it is important to inspect it prior to use to ensure that it wasn't put away in a damaged condition or that deterioration hasn't occurred (for example, weakening of straps or ropes due to mold or mildew) while the equipment was in storage.
• Replace defective equipment. If there is any doubt about the safety of the equipment, do not use it.
• Replace all equipment—including ropes—involved in a fall.
• A trained inspector should inspect the equipment at least twice annually in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to document the date of inspection.
• Use systems which incorporate shock absorbers if the arresting forces of the lanyard alone can cause injury.
• Use the right equipment for the job. If there is any question about what type of equipment is needed, contact an expert rather than guessing.

The time to find out that there is a problem with a fall arrest system is not when a fall happens—at that point it's too late. Planning, maintenance, and regular equipment inspection will help to ensure employees will be kept safe in the event of a fall.

Additional Resources:

More articles on Fall Protection

Information on Inspecting Fall Arrest Systems, from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety