Fall Protection Part 3

Lanyard Inspection:

When inspecting lanyards begin at one end and work to the opposite end, slowly rotating the lanyard so that the entire circumference is checked.

1. Hardware—Snaps: Inspect closely for hook and eye distortions, cracks, corrosion, or pitted surfaces. The keeper (latch) should seat into the nose without binding and should not be distorted or obstructed. The keeper spring should exert sufficient force to firmly close the keeper. Keeper locks must prevent the keeper from opening when the keeper closes. Thimbles: The thimble must be firmly seated in the eye of the splice, and the splice should have no loose or cut strands. The edges of the thimble must be free of sharp edges, distortion, or cracks.
2. Steel Lanyard—While rotating the steel lanyard, watch for cuts, frayed areas, or unusual wearing patterns on the wire. Broken strands will separate from the body of the lanyard.
3. Web Lanyard—While bending webbing over a pipe, observe each side of the webbed lanyard. This will reveal any cuts or breaks. Swelling, discoloration, cracks and charring are obvious signs of chemical or heat damage. Observe closely for any breaks in stitching.
4. Rope Lanyard— (vertical life line or rescue rope)Rotation of the rope lanyard while inspecting from end-to-end for any fuzzy, worn, broken or cut fibers. Weakened areas from extreme loads will appear as a noticeable change in original diameter. The rope diameter should be uniform throughout, following a short break-in period.
5. Shock Absorber Pack—The outer portion of the pack should be examined for burn holes and tears. Stitching on areas where the pack is sewn to D rings.
6. Shock-Absorbing Lanyard—Shock-absorbing lanyards should be examined as a web lanyard (described in Item 3 above). However, also look for the warning flag or signs of deployment. If the flag has been activated, remove this shock absorbing lanyard from service.