Maintenance and Storage of a Fall Protection Harness
The correct maintenance and storage of a fall protection harness and associated webbing products is critical to preserving their integrity and ensuring user safety. Improper care can lead to premature wear, reduced performance, and increased risk of failure during use. For this reason, it is essential to follow both the manufacturer’s specific instructions and recognised industry best practices.
Cleaning Guidelines
To maintain the functionality and longevity of your fall arrest equipment, regular cleaning should be performed under controlled conditions:
Prohibited Methods: Do not use solvents, bleach, detergents with harsh chemicals, abrasive brushes, or mechanical dryers. These can degrade the fibres, reduce strength, and affect performance.
Spot Cleaning: Clean the harness and webbing by hand using a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a mild, non-abrasive soap solution. Do not immerse the equipment in water or use power washers.
Water Temperature: The temperature of the water used must not exceed 40 °C (100 °F). Higher temperatures may weaken or distort synthetic fibres, compromising the structural integrity of the webbing and stitching.
Drying: After cleaning or if the harness becomes wet during use, allow it to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Hang the equipment in a manner that promotes even drying and avoids creasing or pressure points. Keep the harness away from direct heat sources such as radiators, open flames, or tumble dryers, as excessive heat can damage the materials.
Transport and Storage Guidelines
Proper transportation and storage are vital to preventing accidental damage or degradation due to environmental exposure:
Post-Storage Inspection: After prolonged storage or before each use, carry out a thorough visual inspection of the harness. Check for signs of wear, fraying, cuts, chemical damage, discolouration, loose stitching, and hardware corrosion. If any issues are detected, the harness must be removed from service and assessed by a competent person or replaced.
Storage Conditions: Store harnesses in a clean, dry environment, ideally in a protective bag or container that shields them from dust, dirt, and contaminants. Avoid areas exposed to direct sunlight or sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can weaken synthetic fibres over time.
Environmental Protection: Ensure equipment is kept away from extreme temperatures, excessive humidity, oil, grease, corrosive chemicals, vapours, and sharp or abrasive surfaces. Exposure to such conditions can cause hidden damage that may not be immediately apparent during a visual inspection.
Transport Precautions: During transport, place the harness in a secure case or bag to prevent mechanical damage. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the equipment and do not bend or twist the webbing unnecessarily.
All cases, the manufacturers user instructions must be fully adhered to at all times.
