The Importance of Harness Safety Checks, Statutory Inspections, and Rescue Plans

Falls from height remain one of the biggest causes of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in the UK. Whether you’re working on construction sites, scaffolding, or maintenance tasks, proper fall protection is non-negotiable. In this post, we’ll cover why harness safety checks, statutory inspections, and rescue plans are essential for compliance with UK regulations—and, more importantly, for keeping workers safe.

Pre-Use Harness Checks: A Must Before Every Shift

A safety harness is a lifeline—but only if it’s in perfect condition. Before each use, workers should conduct a 6-point inspection:

1. Straps & Webbing – Look for cuts, fraying, or UV degradation.

2. Metal Components – Check D-rings, buckles, and adjusters for cracks, rust, or distortion.

3. Stitching – Ensure no loose or broken threads, especially near anchor points.

4. Labels & Markings– Must be legible and show compliance with EN 361 (Personal Fall Protection Equipment).

5. Lanyards & Connectors – Inspect for wear, corrosion, or deformation.

6. Comfort & Fit – A poorly adjusted harness can be just as dangerous as a damaged one.

Important: If any defect is found, remove the harness from service immediately and replace it.

Statutory Inspections: Legal Requirements Under UK Law

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (WAHR), employers must ensure that fall protection equipment is:

• Inspected regularly by a competent person (at least every 6 months, or more frequently in harsh environments).

• Properly documented – Records must include inspection dates, findings, and actions taken.

• Compliant with Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 2022 – Equipment must meet relevant BS EN standards.

Failure to comply can result in:

• HSE enforcement action (improvement notices, prohibition notices, or prosecution).

• Fines and legal liability if an accident occurs due to negligence.

• Increased risk of injury or death—no business wants that on their conscience.

Note that the HSE can request inspection records at any time—so keep them up to date!

Rescue Plans: Why “Just Calling 999” Isn’t Enough

Many companies invest in fall arrest systems but forget one critical element: what happens after a fall? A suspended worker can suffer from suspension trauma (harness-induced pathology) in as little as 5-10 minutes, leading to unconsciousness or even death.

A compliant rescue plan must include:

• Trained Rescue Team– Designated workers who know how to perform a prompt and safe retrieval.

• Appropriate Equipment – Such as rescue lanyards, lowering devices, or mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).

• Emergency Procedures – Clear steps for first aid, contacting emergency services, and incident reporting.

• Regular Drills – Practice rescues at least twice a year to ensure readiness.

Under Working at Height at Work Regulations 2005, employers must plan for rescue—it’s not optional!

Conclusion: Safety is a Legal and Moral Duty

In the UK, fall protection isn’t just about having the right gear—it’s about ensuring it works when needed. By enforcing daily harness checks, statutory inspections, and tested rescue plans, businesses can:

• Comply with HSE regulations and avoid penalties.

• Protect workers from life-threatening falls.

• Reduce downtime by preventing accidents before they happen.

Disclaimer: This post is for guidance only. Always refer to the latest HSE regulations and manufacturer guidelines.