Harness Inspections

Course Overview

The Safety Harness Inspection course equips learners with the essential skills and knowledge to carry out thorough pre-use and formal inspections of safety harnesses and associated fall protection equipment. This training is suitable for supervisors, safety officers, equipment custodians, and operatives who use or manage fall arrest systems in construction, maintenance, telecoms, and other work-at-height environments. On completion, participants will be confident in identifying faults, understanding inspection criteria, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and industry best practices.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

• Understand the legislation and standards relevant to safety harnesses (e.g., PUWER, LOLER, and EN standards)
• Recognise the different types of harnesses and fall protection systems and their intended use
• Identify the components of harnesses, lanyards, connectors, and energy absorbers
• Conduct pre-use checks and record formal inspections in accordance with manufacturer guidance
• Identify signs of wear, damage, UV degradation, contamination, and stitching failure
• Understand the implications of incorrect fitting, adjustment, or use of harness equipment
• Learn how to manage inspection records, asset registers, and tagging systems
• Understand correct storage, cleaning, and maintenance practices
• Know when to quarantine and report defective equipment
• Gain confidence in fulfilling the role of a competent person in relation to harness inspections

Assessment Methods

This course is assessed through a classroom-based written theory assessment and a practical inspection exercise. Learners must demonstrate competence in identifying equipment faults and recording inspection findings accurately.

Additional Information

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and possess sufficient English literacy to understand technical content and complete written assessments. No prior harness inspection experience is required, though familiarity with working at height is beneficial.