Using fall protection gear like the Exofit Nex harness for the first time? One of the most important things you must remember is to check the harness before and after you’re done using it. Here are a few inspection tips from OSHA to help you out:
1. Belts and rings: In a harness inspection, it’s standard practice to start from one end and work your way to the other. To proceed, turn the body side of the belt to face you. Once that’s done, bend the belt in the shape of an upside-down U. Be ready to assess the belt for any signs of frayed edges or broken fibers. Are there any pulled stitches? If you find those or any cuts and chemical damage, then one thing is certain: You absolutely must have the equipment replaced.
2. D-rings and D-ring metal wear pads: Are the metal pads distorted? Check for cracks or breaks as well as rough and sharp edges anywhere. These types of wear and tear often appear after long years of hard use. If your equipment is starting to go, don’t try to save on new equipment by trying to patch up any broken or worn parts, at least not without expert opinion and assistance. Whether it’s an Exofit Nex harness from a trusted supplier like Harness Land or a lanyard from your local hardware store, the best way to ensure your safety out in the field is to use tools and gear that aren’t damaged in any way at all. Trying to save on new harnesses can seem like an attractive proposition, but it could have devastating and life-altering consequences. Don’t take chances with your safety. At the first sign of damage, replace the gear immediately.
3. Webbing and strands: If you see any frayed or broken strands or find that the webbing is broken in some parts, again, don’t try to repair them on your own. A safety harness was designed to withstand specific types of loading pressure. In order to pull that off, a safety harness has to be in tip-top shape. Any damage could compromise your safety in the air, no matter how small and insignificant it may seem to you.
4. Tongue and friction buckle: Make sure that both buckles have no distortion issues. If they do, set that one aside and use another harness instead.
Be safe and don’t take any chances when you’re getting into your safety harness. Be sure to remember these inspection tips the next time you find yourself using harnesses out in the field.
