Thursday 22 December 2016

Guide to Proper Maintenance of fall safety equipments to ensure a safe workplace



Fall prevention training is mandatory for a worker who is working at heights and thus it is important to know about the types of fall arrest equipments, their selection and techniques of usage. But also equally important is maintenance of these equipments.
Basic care of fall arrest equipments ensure long life of your safety systems and their proper functioning. Just like a warrior sharpens its sword before war and keeps it in the case after use, so is the case with safety equipments. CN Forklift Training Centre, Mississauga, lays emphasis on all aspects of fall prevention training in its Basic fall prevention courses which includes training regarding maintenance of equipments as well in the curriculum.  

In this blog, we look upon the different methods of cleaning, storage and maintenance of safety equipments according to the materials that are being used.
For Nylon or Polyester, all surface dirt should be removed using a sponge which is  dampened with plain water. The dry squeezed sponge should be dipped in a mild solution of water and commercial soap or detergent. Work up a thick lather with a vigorous back and forth motion followed by wiping with a clean cloth. Hang freely to dry, away from excessive heat and direct sun.

The housing unit should be cleaned using a cloth damped with mild detergent and towel dried afterwards. None of the equipment should be dried in direct sun and excessive heat or for long periods of time.

All protection equipment should be stored in a cool, dry and clean place
away from direct sunlight. Areas where heat, moisture, light, oil, chemicals (or their vapors) or other degrading elements may be present should be avoided at all cost as they may interfere with proper functioning of the equipments.
Damaged equipment should never be stored with the sound equipments. Heavily soiled, wet and contaminated equipment should be properly cleaned and dried prior to storage.

A formal inspection by a competent person should be performed prior to usage of safety equipments.