Self-Retracting Lifelines
Look for cuts, frayed strands, or excessive wear in the line and damage to the housing.
Self-Retracting Lifelines
If the unit needs service, check the manufacturer's recommendations. Don't try to repair it yourself.
Guardrail Systems
Guardrail systems are a key element in ensuring the safety of workers, particularly in construction or industrial environments where there is a risk of falls. They serve as a physical barrier to prevent workers from falling to lower levels.
Click on the link to see a brief guide on inspecting guardrail systems.
- Visual Inspection: Start with a general visual inspection. Look for obvious signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, rust, deformation, or missing components.
- Height: The height of the guardrail system is important. For general industry, the top rail should typically be 42 inches above the walking or working level, with a midrail located halfway between the top rail and the floor. Check the regulations in your specific jurisdiction for the exact requirements.
- Toeboards: The height of the guardrail system is important. For general industry, the top rail should typically be 42 inches above the walking or working level, with a midrail located halfway between the top rail and the floor. Check the regulations in your specific jurisdiction for the exact requirements.
- Strength: Guardrail systems must be strong enough to withstand a certain amount of force without failing. In the United States, OSHA requires the top rail to withstand a force of 200 pounds applied in any outward or downward direction. You won't be able to check this just by looking, but you can check for signs that the guardrail may have been subjected to excessive force in the past.
- Attachment: Check the method of attachment to ensure the guardrails are securely fixed to the structure. Ensure that bolts, screws, and other fasteners are in good condition and firmly tightened.
- Gaps: There should be no gaps in the guardrail system that could allow a person to fall through. Make sure the spacing between rails meets safety regulations.
- Surfaces: The surfaces of guardrails should be smooth to prevent injury from sharp or jagged edges.
- Condition: Look for any signs of deterioration, such as rust or corrosion, particularly in outdoor settings.
- Accessibility: Ensure the area around the guardrail system is clear of debris or any objects that could impede access or pose a tripping hazard.
- Documentation: Keep a record of your inspections, including the date, any problems identified, and any corrective action taken.
Safety-Net Systems
Safety net systems are an important part of construction and other industries where falls from heights can occur. Regular inspection of these systems is crucial to maintain their integrity and effectiveness.
Click on the link below to see steps you can follow to inspect safety net systems:
- Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, visually inspect the net system for any obvious signs of damage or wear and tear. This includes looking for any cuts, tears, abrasions, or frayed strands in the net material.
- Inspect the Net's Anchorage: Check the connections and anchorage points of the net. Make sure they are secure and undamaged. They should be firmly attached to the structure and should be able to withstand the forces applied in the event of a fall.
- Inspect the Net's Mesh Size and Material: The net's mesh size should comply with the relevant safety standards and should be small enough to prevent a person from falling through. The material of the net should be fire-resistant and resistant to damage from environmental factors like UV radiation.
- Inspect the Border Rope: Check the border rope of the net for any signs of wear or damage. This rope is crucial for the net's strength and integrity.
- Look for Debris: Check for debris or materials in the net. These should be removed as they can potentially damage the net or make a fall more dangerous.
- Check for Repairs: If any repairs have been made to the net, these should be inspected to ensure they have been done correctly and securely.
- Inspect After a Fall Incident: After any fall incident, the net system must be inspected thoroughly by a competent person to ensure it is still safe to use.
- Regular Scheduled Inspections: In addition to these checks, regular scheduled inspections should be carried out by a competent person. These inspections should be more thorough and should also include checking for compliance with the relevant safety standards and regulations.
- Documentation: Keep records of all inspections, including dates, findings, and any corrective actions taken. This will help identify any recurring issues and will be important for any audits or investigations.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
8-4. When should you replace a self-retracting lifeline?
You forgot to answer the question!