Fall Protection FAQs
Are Bailey FP products compliant with AU/NZS standards?
Yes - they are independently tested and certified by BSI to AS/NZS1891.
Do harnesses and lanyards need to be inspected and at what frequency?
Harness and lanyards must be visually inspected for damage by the user before each use. Every 6 months the harness and lanyard must be inspected by a competent person and a record of inspection must be kept.
Who is a competent person?
A person who has acquired through training, qualification or experience the knowledge and skills to carry out the task.
Do you need to be trained to use a fall protection system?
Individual fall arrest systems rely on workers wearing and using them correctly, therefore workers who will use such a system must be trained in its safe use. Users of individual fall arrest systems should possess a suitable attitude for working at height, including a responsible attitude to safety.
When should I use a fall protection system?
Individual fall arrest systems must only be used where it is not reasonably practicable to use higher level control measures.
What is the minimum clearance required for a fall protection system to arrest a fall safely?
A minimum distance of 6.5m must be allowed for the fall protection to arrest a fall and prevent contact with the ground. If this cannot be achieved, then the user must ensure that they keep them in a restraint position to prevent a free fall.
Does the fall arrest system need to be connected to an approved anchor point?
Yes - the lanyard or lifeline must be connected to approved anchor point (15kN for single person use / 21kN for two-person use). If an approved anchor point is not available, then the system can be attached to a structure that is engineered to withstand these forces.
Do all the components in the system need to be supplied by the same manufacturer?
No, but all components in the system must be compatible to prevent connector "roll-out."
Do I need to have a rescue plan in place when using a fall arrest system?
Yes, an emergency response procedure must be implemented, and this plan must include one other person on site who can rescue them if they fall. The rescue plan must ensure the person is retrieved in a prompt manner to prevent "suspension intolerance" and to treat any other injuries sustained during the fall.
Do harnesses and lanyards have a used by date?
Yes - 10 years from date of manufacture (not 10 years from date of purchase).
Can I clean my harness and lanyard?
Yes, it is necessary to keep the webbing material free from dirt, grease and grim. Mild detergent and lukewarm water should be used to clean surfaces. It is important to rinse off with clean water, wipe down and allow to dry in a ventilated dry space.
Do I have to implement a safe work method statement when using a fall protection system?
Yes - working at heights is hazardous and deemed a high-risk activity by State WorkSafe Organisations. Therefore, a hazard must be identified and where possible eliminated and then a Safe Work Method Statement must be developed and communicated to all people required to work at heights.
What is a fall restraint system?
A fall restraint system is designed to prevent the user from reaching an area where there is a risk of a fall, so that a free fall or limited fall is not possible.
What is a limited free fall?
A fall of a distance of less than 600mm either vertically or on a slope.
What is a free fall?
A fall of a distance greater than 600mm. A fall arrest system is designed so that the user cannot hit the ground or another object in the event of the fall and that no more than 6kN of force is exerted on the user.
What do I do if I have had a fall while wearing my harness and lanyard?
If you have had a fall while wearing a harness and lanyard you should immediately take it out of service and destroyed.
Do lanyards need to have an energy absorber?
Yes - in the event of a fall the energy absorber deploys ensuring that no more than 6kN of force is transferred to the user. If the energy absorber has been deployed that it must be taken out of service and destroyed.
How should I store my harness when not in use?
Ensure all fall protection equipment's is stored in a clean, dry and well-ventilated locations. Avoid storing the equipment in environments that will expose them to heat, sunlight, sharp objects/surfaces, chemicals or corrosive environments.
Can I use a permanent market on my webbing harness for identification purposes?
No, permanent markers should not be used directly to the webbing and markings as the inks could cause deterioration of the webbing.