What Is the Lifespan of Height Safety PPE?

Workplace safety when it comes to working at heights is a major concern, as it’s a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities. To ensure the safety of workers, UK regulations mandate that employers implement effective planning and provide necessary training. The use of appropriate safety equipment is also crucial.

This includes Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and height safety tools like harnesses, lanyards, and anchor systems.

In this guide, we explain:

• The essential PPE needed for working at heights
• The lifespan of height safety equipment
• The frequency of inspections and maintenance for your equipment

What PPE Is Required for Working at Height?

According to the Work at Height Regulations 2005, it’s essential for employers to implement measures that prevent falls and reduce risks, especially when working at heights is necessary.

When other safety strategies fall short, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) steps in as a crucial line of defence.

So, what does typical PPE for working at height look like? While the specific equipment you need will depend on the nature of the task and your risk assessment, here are some common items:

1) Full-Body Safety Harnesses– These are pivotal in any fall arrest system, designed to distribute forces across the body in the event of a fall.

2) Lanyards & Shock Absorbers– These connect your harness to a secure anchor point and are equipped with energy absorbers to minimise fall impact.

3) Anchor Points– Whether fixed or temporary, these are essential for securing the fall arrest system.

4) Fall Arrest Blocks / SRLs (Self-Retracting Lifelines)– These allow for movement but quickly lock if a fall occurs.

5) Additional PPE– Depending on the risks present on site, you might also need:

• Helmets or bump caps
• High-visibility clothing
• Protective gloves and footwear

It’s crucial that all PPE provided is appropriate, compatible, kept clean, well-maintained, and used correctly, following the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations and established best practices.

What Is the Lifespan of Most Height Safety Equipment?

Height safety PPE does not last forever, as some tools might. Its lifespan is influenced by how often it’s used, the environment it’s in, and the guidance provided by the manufacturer. In the UK, it’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions as a primary rule.

General Lifespan Guidelines

Full-Body Harnesses: Typically, these are rated for up to 10 years from the date of manufacture, but this can vary based on usage and conditions. In normal environments with regular use, you can expect a service life of about 5 to 6 years.

Lanyards, Ropes & Webbing: Similar to harnesses, these can also be rated for up to 10 years, but be vigilant; they may need to be retired sooner if you notice any signs of wear or exposure to harsh conditions.

Connectors (DSLs, Karabiners): The metal parts don’t have a specific expiry date, but if they show any signs of damage or if inspections uncover any defects, they must be retired immediately. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Even if a safety product is rated for a long life, you must remove it from use right away if it has:

• Been involved in stopping a fall
• Visible damage, such as fraying, corrosion, or signs of ageing
• Missing, hard-to-read, or outdated inspection records
• Surpassed the manufacturer’s advised lifespan

The lifespan isn’t solely about the passage of time; it largely depends on the condition of the equipment.

How should height safety equipment be stored?

To help your equipment last longer and stay safe, here are some tips:

• Keep it stored in a clean and dry place.
• Make sure it’s protected from UV light, chemicals, and heat.
• Avoid any crushing or sharp edges that might cause damage.
• Always stick to the storage guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Poor storage practices often lead to equipment failing sooner than expected.

How Often Should Working at Height Equipment Be Inspected?

Regular inspections are required by law under the Work at Height Regulations and supporting standard BS EN 365.

1. Pre-Use Checks — Every Time

Before using any equipment, take a moment to do a quick check for:

• Any cuts, fraying, or wear on the webbing
• Deformation in hardware like D-rings, buckles, or connectors
• Missing labels or dates
• Signs of damage from chemicals, heat, or UV exposure

If anything is wrong, do not use the equipment.

2. Formal Inspections — Minimum 6 Months

A competent person (trained and experienced) should carry out a formal inspection on the equipment:

• At least once every six months for most fall protection personal protective equipment (PPE)
• More frequently, for example, every three months, if the equipment is used a lot or in tough conditions (think sharp edges or chemicals).

3. Detailed / Thorough Examinations

Some organisations and guidance recommend a 12-month detailed recorded examination by a competent person. This should cover all components, documentation and conditions.

4. Post-Incident Inspection

If there’s been an incident that could compromise safety, like a fall, impact, or drop, take the equipment out of service and inspect it thoroughly before using it again.

Record Keeping:

It’s crucial to keep written records of each inspection, noting:

• Date
• Equipment ID
• Name of the inspector
• Findings and actions taken

Get certified to carry out professional PPE inspections with Leading Edge.

Can I use different brands of height safety equipment together?

• The components must be completely compatible and officially approved for use together.
• Mixing different brands without proper confirmation can pose safety risks and may void warranties or compliance standards.
• Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult an expert for advice.

Do I need training to use height safety PPE?

UK law requires that anyone using height safety equipment be adequately trained. Training should cover:

• How to fit and adjust the equipment correctly
• Understanding the limitations of the gear
• How to inspect and store it safely
• Emergency procedures and rescue techniques

Training should be refreshed regularly. Trust in expert training providers such as Leading Edge for all your height safety training needs.

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Final Takeaways

In the UK, employers are required by law to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable for working at height, and this equipment must be given to workers at no cost.

The lifespan of equipment such as harnesses and lanyards generally ranges from 5 to 10 years. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and to take equipment out of service earlier if you notice any signs of wear and tear.

Regular inspections are key: always check the equipment before each use, schedule formal inspections every six months (or even more frequently), and make sure to maintain thorough records.